Is It Time For A Fresh Start?

Knowing when it's time to end a relationship is difficult, and you will need to use your own intuition when deciding, at least for the most part. It's all too easy to get bogged down in the range of emotions that often accompany marriages that are failing, and thus overlook the fact that a change needs to happen. Read through the questions listed below and be guided toward a decision that might have you seeking the help of a divorce attorney.

Are you dealing with a toxic relationship? Dealing with negativity day in and day out is depressing, and it's easy to fall into the trap of inaction. Once you and your spouse have tried counseling, you may need to consider taking more definitive action. If you are one of the many spouses suffering from emotional or physical abuse, the time to leave is now. Make arrangements to get to a safe place and get legal help as soon as possible.

Are you being cheated on? Infidelity can leave a huge scar on a marriage, but not all relationships collapse as a result of an indiscretion. Spouses who cannot stay faithful can create both unending misery and danger from disease, however, and you need to place a greater value on your own health and peace of mind by getting out as soon as you see "serial cheating" in your relationship.

Are you just getting through each day and dreaming of better ones? If you think that things are just magically going to get better, you are deluding yourself. Daydreaming and fantasizing about your future life that does not include your current spouse is a red flag that your happiness is at stake. Therapy is helpful, but making plans to create that bright future instead of just dreaming about it is vital.

How's your timing? Even if you have made the tough decision and will be seeking a divorce, you may need to take an intermediary step before you have the final decree. There are several good reasons for putting off a divorce, and a legal separation agreement can allow you to experience the positive aspects of a parting without actually being legally divorced. Any agreement made can include provisions normally found in a divorce decree, such as:

1. child custody, support, and visitation arrangements

2. temporary spousal support (also called alimony or maintenance)

3. temporary property and debt divisions

Why would you put off a divorce? Perhaps you are dealing with family issues like illness, addiction or school problems. If you now know that a divorce is in your future, speak to your preferred law firms and begin the journey to your fresh start.