How do you know when you're ready for a divorce?

March 26, 2014

Divorce is almost always a difficult decision, with most people deciding to end the marriage as a last option. When negotiating and marriage counseling just don't help, many Florida residents make the choice to call it quits. Although getting a divorce can be heartbreaking, most will agree it's better than staying in a miserable marriage. The hard question can be figuring out when to file for divorce. There's no concrete answer; every marriage is different, and problems that one couple may be able to work through could be intolerable for another. Still, there are some common signs that can show people when their marriages may be drawing to a close.

Problems that can signal the end of a marriage

Some warning signs can be obvious, such as when one spouse has problems with substance abuse, or if there is domestic violence. Other problems can be hard to figure out. While one couple may decide to work through an affair, for others it's an automatic deal-breaker. Many other marriage issues can be downright confusing, but often signal that a marriage is likely to end if both spouses don't do something to fix it. According to MSN, these can include:
- When one spouse states an ultimatum, but the other refuses to listen or help solve the problem.
- When one or both spouses feel disrespected, condescended, dismissed and rejected.
- When neither spouse wants to make the effort to spend quality time together.
- If there was an affair, and the cheating spouse remains friends with the former lover or continues to cheat.
- When one spouse constantly blames the other on everything that's wrong in the marriage.

Unfortunately, when a couple no longer works toward goals and unity as a team, it's usually a matter of time before the union falls apart.

The effect on Children

Children especially can take it hard when their parents get a divorce. Child support, custody arrangements and other issues can add to the strain. It's important for divorcing couples to keep their children from feeling like they're being put in the middle of the conflict, and to avoid bad-talking the other parent or arguing in front of them. Keeping the lines of communication open, honest and loving with kids can help them get through this difficult time.

How an attorney can help

If you're contemplating divorce, you're far from alone. Health Central says that about half of all marriages today end in divorce. This can seem discouraging, but now is a great time to reach out and find people who have been there to offer support and advice. To protect your rights with important divorce issues, including child custody and property division, it's also a good time to get in touch with an experienced divorce attorney.

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