BROOKLYN, New York. While there is a great deal of literature out there on how you can save your marriage, and while more couples are looking to marriage counseling before choosing to divorce, there still remain situations where divorce may be the best option for all involved. For example, if you fear for your own safety, the safety of your children, or are concerned that your spouse may be damaging your finances, you may want to seek a separation or divorce as soon as possible. At the very least, you’ll want to take steps to protect yourself, your children, and your financial well-being.
While there are many reasons why people choose to get divorced—from financial problems to difficulty communicating, one psychologist writing for Good Therapy suggested that the three leading reasons for divorce are abuse, addiction, and affairs. Individuals facing these issues should not try to overcome them on their own. Consider speaking to a counselor and consider working with a qualified divorce lawyer in Brooklyn, New York like the Elliot Green Law Offices. Even if you ultimately choose not to get divorced, it is still important to understand the legal and financial implications of divorcing your spouse if you are considering this path. If you do choose to get divorced, you’ll have to divide your assets, property, debts, and other finances. You’ll also need to make child custody decisions.
While abuse, addiction, and affairs can lead to divorce, in some cases, these actions can be a wake-up call for those in the marriage. Regardless, you and your family will need help. If your spouse suffers from addiction or struggles with abusive tendencies, he or she will need assistance. However, some people finally seek the help they need when they realize the marriage is in jeopardy.
Addiction, for example, is a major issue in the United States. According to Psychology Today, there are an estimated 12 to 13 million alcoholics in the U.S. Another 2 million are problem gamblers. Another 8 million suffer from eating disorders. Addiction tends to get worse the longer it goes untreated. If your marriage is suffering as a result of a partner’s addiction, you may want to seek help. In some cases, individuals find that the only way to move forward is through divorce, but sometimes couples are able to work through the addiction and come out stronger.
Regardless of your situation, there are certainly some cases where you’ll need to keep yourself safe no matter what. If your partner is violent or hurting you, if you fear for your safety or the safety of your children, or if you are concerned that your partner’s addiction might put you in financial jeopardy, you may want to speak to a qualified divorce lawyer like the Elliot Green Law Offices in Brooklyn, New York. Our firm can help you understand the financial and legal impact of your separation or divorce and help you plan so that you can protect yourself, your rights, and your children.