Separation During Marriage

When two people marry, they generally plan on spending the rest of their lives together. Unfortunately, that doesn’t always happen. Separating from a spouse is one of the most difficult time periods a person can go through. Emotions and tensions will be high, and the person you’ve relied on the most to be there for you suddenly isn’t.

Yet, somehow, you need to maintain your everyday life while figuring out what happens next.

Whether you initiated the separation or not, it’s important to remember…

Separation Is Not Divorce

For many, separation is simply a waiting period for their divorce to be finalized. For others, it’s a time to clear their heads and figure out how to make things work.

Either way, being separated is not the same as being divorced. You and your spouse are still bound together in the eyes of the law, and the actions you make while separated can affect how your divorce plays out, should it happen.

With that mind, here’s some general advice to help you get through this time.

Keep It Private

Separation is uncomfortable enough without everyone around you knowing and gossiping about it. While you should confide in a close friend or family member, you should keep things private, at least until you have a good idea of what will happen next.

That doesn’t mean you have to lie about it. If the topic comes up, simply express your wish to keep things private or you’re working through something.

Set Expectations

We realize that talking to your spouse during this time is very difficult to do, but if possible, set some idea of expectations at the start. If you want time to be alone and think things through, let them know. If you want to make it work, tell them. If it’s over and there’s nothing that will change your mind, that should be established.

Talk To Your Kids

If there are kids involved in your marriage, you should always make their well-being a priority. As hard as separating might be for you, it will usually be hardest for them. Depending on their age, they may have difficulty understanding.

But it’s important that you try.

Don’t Drag Things Out

If you and your spouse need time to figure out where you’re going next, then be patient and allow for an appropriate amount of time. Sooner or later, however, you should know where things are heading.

If the next step is divorce, it’s best to keep the process moving.

Don’t Wait To Talk To An Attorney

When divorce becomes a possibility, you should meet with an attorney immediately. Even if you haven’t separated yet, an attorney can give critical guidance to protect you in your next steps. If you’re currently looking into divorce or you’re already separated, contact a lawyer that specializes in divorce.

For a dependable divorce attorney in Springfield, Michael T. Edwards is here. Whether you have questions or you’re ready to begin the process of divorcing your spouse, we are here for you. Contact us today.