Just because divorce rates are rising in the U.S. doesn’t mean that the process is well understood. Old-fashioned beliefs about divorce and separation still plague the practice, preventing many people from seeking the legal help and conflict resolution they need.
To make matters worse, the divorce process can be complicated. Between family law issues, stacks of divorce papers, and custody confusion, it’s no wonder so many myths and misconceptions about marriage termination still linger.
If you’re thinking about getting a divorce, make sure you’ve got the facts straight. Learning truth from myth can help you decide whether divorce is right for your situation, and help you decide when to start seeking family law attorneys. To get started, here are three myths about the divorce process that simply aren’t true:
Myth #1: Both Spouses Need to Agree to Divorce
In the past, partners could “trap” their spouse in a terrible marriage by refusing to sign divorce or separation agreements. However, thanks to the introduction of the no-fault divorce, either partner can seek a marriage termination without having to prove that the other party did anything illegal or wrong, like cheating or being abusive. If one party absolutely refuses to sign, the other person can still continue with the divorce, albeit through a slightly different paperwork process.
Myth #2: Mothers Always Win Custody Battles
The trend today is that both parents are treated equally, so that 50/50 timesharing arrangement with the children is the norm and not the exception. Family law attorneys work with judges to establish reasonable shared custody and visitation agreements.
Myth #3: The Other Party’s Lawyer Will Take Everything I Have
Contrary to popular belief, the court process of divorce rarely involves a “winner takes all” approach. Though one person may have been unfaithful or told terrible lies, few marital disputes influence property division decisions. Generally, the court prefers to end marriages fairly by separating property and wealth evenly, and even the most assertive divorce lawyers work to ensure that no party will be left penniless.
Divorce can be exhausting and scary. Don’t let misconceptions and rumors make the unpleasant process even worse. With these myth-busting facts, you’ll be able to find a separation solution that makes the most sense for you and your family.
