When is it Time to End the Marriage?

Every marriage has its ups and downs, but when one spouse starts to wonder where all the “ups” have gone, it might be time to consider divorce. It can be hard to know when it’s time to finally end the marriage, but there are some telltale signs that may help with the decision. Here are the most common signs that it may be time to talk to a divorce lawyer.

both spouses argue more and more about the same issues

Most couples have a few topics they seem to bicker about over the years. But if those arguments seem to be getting more intense and more frequent with no resolution in sight, it might be time to end the marriage. Both spouses should think about whether they want to spend the rest of their lives arguing over these topics, because that’s a real possibility if they haven’t ever reached an agreement on them yet. This is especially the case if a simple disagreement on an issue always seems to end in name-calling or hurtful accusations.

a couple doesn’t want to spend time together

It’s one thing to want some alone time once in a while or to go out with friends occasionally. But if a couple finds themselves feeling relieved every time the other spouse isn’t around and they’d rather hang out with just about anyone but him or her, they might be better off divorcing. It shouldn’t feel like a chore to be together, so if someone constantly feels they’d rather be at work than at home, there may be a problem.

they no longer share the same values

Certain major differences might be hard or even impossible to navigate. For example, if one spouse suddenly wants to go out and drink, gamble or try illegal substances — and the other is against of all this — it’s going to be hard to keep the marriage together. And if one spouse wants children and the other has decided that he or she doesn’t, the only option might be a divorce, unless they can reach a compromise. If they don’t share the same major values in life, the marriage will probably feel like a constant uphill battle that leaves one or both unfulfilled.

one spouse is abusive

Abuse comes in a few forms. It could be as noticeable as physical abuse in which one spouse hits, pushes or chokes his or her partner. It could also be sexual abuse in which one spouse doesn’t take no for an answer. But verbal abuse is often the type of abuse that goes unnoticed for years. If one spouse’s words frequently leave the other feeling worthless and his or her self-esteem has dropped, he or she might be a victim of verbal abuse. In most cases, divorce is the only way to eliminate this issue.

counseling isn’t an option

Counseling can work wonders on some marriages that are in trouble. But if one spouse refuses to go — which is a common issue — it might be time to contact a divorce or family law attorney. Both spouses have to want the marriage to work in order to avoid divorce, and going to counseling together is a sign of this. Similarly, if the couple has already tried counseling and yet the problems persist, divorce may be the best choice.

If most or all of these signs apply to a marriage, it’s time to talk to a divorce lawyer. The Edgar & Dow has been committed to family law for years and can help clients navigate through divorce and common issues like spousal support, child support and child custody. Call (888) 251-9618 today for a free consultation.

Sources:

http://www.womansday.com/relationships/dating-marriage/advice/g2587/signs-your-marriage-might-be-over/?slide=1

http://guidedoc.com/when-to-divorce-7-signs-you-need-to-get-out

http://health.usnews.com/health-news/health-wellness/articles/2013/10/03/the-telltale-signs-of-verbal-abuse

https://www.wevorce.com/blog/dr-romance-ending-your-marriage/