The decision to divorce is a life-changing one and, in most cases, should only be arrived at after careful thought and deliberation. To decide if a separation is the right option, it can be helpful to ask yourself a few questions to clarify your thoughts, feelings, and goals. If you’re debating whether to end your marriage, below are five points to consider.

What to Contemplate Before Getting a Divorce

1. Have I Tried to Work on the Problems in the Relationship?

Before filing, ask yourself if you and your spouse have made a valiant effort to resolve the issues in the marriage. This can be hard, intimidating work, often requiring hours of difficult communication in a tense, sometimes emotional atmosphere. However, doing so is essential to finding a resolution—whether that means staying and working on existing problems or parting ways.

2. Would I Be Happier Single?

Sometimes, people are happier when they're on their own, and there is nothing wrong with that. Ask yourself if you'd be happier as a single person, or, if not happier, then at least more comfortable. If your answer is yes, divorce may be the next logical step; if the answer is no, consider other alternatives like counseling or a trial separation.

3. What Are My Fears?

What are you afraid of about ending your marriage? Name your fears and write them down. Feelings are often vague; so, by defining what’s holding you back—like your financial situation or unease about change or being alone—will give you some perspective. If your anxiety is rooted in the fact that you might be making a mistake, seek counseling. If they’re more practical, start devising an exit strategy and get proactive about changing your life for the better.

4. How Can I Make This Easy on the Kids?

A divorce will change your family’s life, whether it's amicable or volatile. You want to minimize the emotional toll it will have on your children. To that end, ask yourself what you and your spouse can do to make this process easiest on your kids. Even if you haven’t yet decided to divorce, children can usually sense when something is wrong. In what ways can you and your partner be there to support them as you figure out your situation?

5. How Financially Prepared Am I for Divorce?

Divorce requires most people to make adjustments to their finances, spending, and other money matters. Are you willing to do this? Will proceeding to divorce have a profound impact on your ability to support yourself? If so, you will need to start making plans now to ensure you have the necessary resources to move forward.

If you and your spouse have decided to divorce, turn to the Law Offices of Robert B. Liotta, Esq. Since 2000, Attorney Liotta has been serving the Lower Burrell, PA, region, offering quality legal counsel and representation to ensure his clients’ rights and best interests are protected. Call (724) 334-9870 to schedule an appointment, or visit him online to learn more about the firm and his background.