Is your marriage in the emergency room or the morgue?
During divorce consultations, I often ask clients, “is your marriage in the emergency room or the morgue?” While this may seem like a peculiar question, the purpose is to ensure that as a potential client, you are committed to the divorce process. If you start the divorce process and decide to reconcile, it can be costly and can also have a long-lasting impact on your relationship. Divorce is a very personal decision and no attorney can decide whether you should or shouldn’t seek a divorce. If you are unsure about whether divorce is right for you, you should consult with a counselor or therapist who can help you make that decision. A divorce attorney’s job is solely to provide legal advice and guidance as to the divorce process.
If you are contemplating a divorce, it is a good idea to seek the advice from an experienced Orlando divorce lawyer. However, do not let an attorney make the decision as to whether you are ready to move forward with a divorce. If your marriage is in the “emergency room”, then we advise you to speak with your spouse or seek counseling, if possible. If your marriage is in the morgue, then it may be time to move forward with a divorce.
An attorney that is trying to pressure you to move forward with a divorce is not acting in your best interest. Instead, a divorce attorney should advise you of any risks associated with waiting to file for divorce and what your rights and responsibilities would be once the case is filed. However, if you have been served with divorce paperwork, it is important to know that you must respond to it within twenty (20) days. When consulting with a divorce attorney, the attorney should analyze all aspects of your case and discuss potential outcomes. Divorce can be a scary and stressful experience, however, knowing what to expect through the divorce process will help to significantly reduce that stress.
If you are contemplating divorce, make sure to fully evaluate your options and understand whether divorce is right for you. While divorce is a major life decision, we find that many clients ultimately feel that they don’t have any other choice. Either way, it is important to understand the process, the risks, and ultimately the expected or potential outcomes. As divorce attorneys we deal with these cases every day, but we understand that most people only go through this process once in their lifetime.
Further Reading:
Five Things to Do Before Filing for Divorce
How To Find The Best Divorce Attorney for You
What is the divorce process in Florida?
Top 10 Common Divorce Related Questions
What is the timeline for divorce in Florida?