Can You Work Professionally Together After Divorce?

 Posted on February 18, 2025 in Illinois Divorce

For some couples, divorce does not mean a complete break from one another. Whether you co-own a business, work in the same professional field, or hold leadership roles in adjacent organizations, maintaining a productive working relationship might be a necessity after divorce. While emotions may still be raw, for ex-spouses in these situations, professionalism must take priority.

If you need to work with your ex, success will lie in setting clear boundaries, using communication strategically, and prioritizing the business or workplace over your personal history. Here are some practical strategies for making this arrangement work. Contact our Illinois divorce attorney if you have further questions or need help with your divorce.

Set Clear Boundaries Right Away

One of the first and most critical steps in working together after your divorce is defining professional boundaries. Personal issues should not interfere with business operations, and both of you must commit to maintaining a work-focused mindset.

• Define Your Roles: If you co-own a business, ensure that each person’s responsibilities are explicitly outlined. Minimize areas where overlap could lead to conflict.

• Avoid Personal Conversations: Keep discussions strictly work-related. If personal issues must be addressed, schedule a separate time outside of work.

• Respect Each Other’s Space: If you are working in the same office, set clear expectations about physical workspaces, meeting structures, and professional interactions.

Have a Structured Communication Plan

If not handled well, even the smallest communication can lead to professional setbacks, especially when emotions are influencing conversations. Developing a structured communication plan helps both parties stay on track.

People who work well together after divorce tend to communicate using smart strategies. They often use neutral communication methods when possible and try to only talk when a third party is present. They might also schedule regular check-ins and otherwise avoid coming into contact. No matter what, they focus on sticking to facts and agendas rather than discussing personal matters.

Keep a Strictly Professional Attitude

Regardless of past conflicts, presenting a united front in professional settings is essential for maintaining credibility with clients, employees, and colleagues. This means never discussing personal matters in public.

This neutrality also needs to extend to office politics. Avoid taking sides in workplace disagreements, and do not draw others into your own disputes. To the fullest extent possible, try to keep anyone from feeling pulled towards either yourself or your ex.

Use Third Parties When Necessary

In cases where professional collaboration is unavoidable but direct interaction is challenging, consider involving a neutral third party to facilitate discussions. This could be a business mediator, a liaison for workplace matters, or anyone else you trust to handle these interactions well.

Prioritize the bigger picture and remember, at the very least, you each have a shared goal: Maintaining your careers, your professional relationships, and your reputations.

Meet with a St. Charles, IL Divorce Attorney 

Working together after divorce, especially in an environment where both parties continue to own and operate a business, is most successful when the divorce itself is managed well.

If you need assistance with your divorce or your post-divorce business agreements or legal arrangements, contact our experienced Kane County, IL divorce attorneys for a consultation. Our team, including our Certified Financial Litigator, is here to help you move forward with confidence while maintaining professional integrity.