You can see the finish line, but where do you start? Talking to your spouse about getting a divorce brings up many emotions. You’re nervous, anxious, and worried about how your spouse might react.
Divorces happen for a variety of reasons. Oftentimes, no one is at fault. People change, and as a result, marriages change as well. Maybe you’ve thought about getting a divorce for months, maybe it’s been years. Maybe you’ve been looking for the right time. Maybe you’ve been pushing it off because you’re not ready.
Unfortunately, it may never feel the right time. However, deep down you know that you and your spouse will be better apart. Whether you’ve tried couples counseling, sorting out your issues, or separation, if nothing has worked, it might be time for you and your spouse to go your separate ways.
Filing for divorce takes courage. Filing for divorce takes strength. Luckily for you, you already have both of those qualities. If you haven’t spoken with an attorney already, think about the kind of divorce you want to have. Do you want to spend hundreds of thousands of dollars on an attorney? Do you want to spend months, maybe years, battling in a courtroom? Do you want the general public to have access to the details of your divorce?
If you answer no to any of those questions, litigation is likely not the path for you and your spouse. However, if you’d rather amicably settle your differences, the Collaborative Divorce Practice may be right for you.
During a collaborative divorce, both you and your spouse have separate attorneys who advocate for each of your respective rights. However, instead of a judge making the final decision, you and your spouse have more control over the outcome of your case.
Opting for a collaborative divorce may make the divorce process easier, and thus, calm some of your nerves. If you’re too nervous to address the topic of divorce with your spouse, speak with a collaborative divorce attorney. He or she can provide you will various solutions.
Speak with your friends and family members. Maybe you’ve already spoken to them about getting a divorce. Maybe you’re worried about how they’ll react. However, if someone you know has already gone through a divorce, he or she may be able to provide you additional tips.
Talking with your spouse about getting a divorce may be nerve-racking, but it doesn’t have to be. If you think collaborative divorce is right for you, you can begin by explaining to your spouse that your divorce doesn’t have to be a battle. You may be surprised at how well you and your spouse can work together when you’re talking about being apart. Your spouse may have already been thinking about obtaining a divorce, too. Thus, having a conversation about seeking a divorce may be easier than you think.
Divorces aren’t like walks in the park, but neither are most marriages. However, as you embark on this journey, remember that you are not alone. There are various support groups, therapists, and attorneys that can help you through this process.
Going through a collaborative divorce can make the divorce process easier and more efficient. You may leave the process feeling more confidence and financially independent. Do you want to battle in a courtroom or reach an agreement behind closed doors?
If you’re not ready to begin the process today, think about why you’re not ready to start. What’s holding you back? Speaking with an attorney can help you find the right time to speak with your spouse.
Remember, obtaining a divorce does not mean that you’ve failed. Obtaining a divorce is an opportunity to have a fresh start. You can start this new beginning by speaking with your spouse. The journey begins and ends with you. You can have your fresh start today and begin on your journey towards the finish line.
