On behalf of Stange Law Firm, PC posted in divorce on Friday, October 13, 2017.
Missouri couples are usually committed to their marriages and making them work, particularly if they have children. However, there are situations in which divorce may be necessary for the safety and well-being of the entire family. The difficulty for many spouses is determining the point at which ending the marriage is the most responsible option.
One suggestion is trying to look at the marriage from a third-party perspective. For example, a spouse who is considering divorce may think about what he or she would tell a good friend who is currently experiencing similar circumstances. If the spouse would urge the friend to leave the marriage for his or her own good, or the good of the children, this suggests that a divorce may be necessary.
Other reasons to pursue divorce include substance abuse issues. While many spouses are able to address addictions through counseling and rehab programs, there are those who refuse to acknowledge their problem or get help. As their behavior becomes more erratic and possibly dangerous, the other spouse, as well as the kids, suffer greatly. Abuse is also a good reason to leave a marriage. Even if the spouse is not abusive to the children, children experience trauma when they see or hear a parent being treated poorly.
Individuals who are considering filing for a divorce may benefit from speaking with an experienced family law attorney. This may be particularly true in cases where abuse or addiction are issues. The attorney may be able to review the client’s situation and make recommendations regarding property division, child custody and support payments.