Marriages go through ups and downs; that’s part of their natural life cycle. But sometimes, marriage takes a turn you’re not ready for. Many people come to a point where they’re forced to say, “I don’t know my spouse anymore.”
If that’s the way you feel, is there any way to fix it or should you head straight for a Durham divorce lawyer’s office?
Exploring Your Options
When you hear yourself saying “I don’t know my spouse,” it can be scary. You have two choices: remedy the situation or sit down with a Durham divorce lawyer and file paperwork to end your marriage. While it seems black-and-white, there’s a lot of gray area that makes your situation unique.
Try sitting down with your partner and expressing your feelings in a non-accusatory way. See if they’re willing to work on your marriage; suggest couples counseling as a way to reconnect. If your spouse isn’t willing to put in the work, you probably need to consult an attorney.
Talking to a Durham Divorce Lawyer
Visiting a divorce lawyer doesn’t mean you’re committed to getting a divorce. It’s simply another option to explore in case you and your significant other can’t reconnect.
When you talk to a Durham divorce lawyer, they will ask for a general overview of your situation. Provide all the necessary information, because it will help your lawyer understand whether you’ll need to work on child custody, whether you’ll be entitled to spousal support (alimony), and how much property you need to divide if you do choose to divorce.
Considering Possible Outcomes
Once you know what your options are, you can weigh the pros and cons. You may decide that you don’t want to get to know your spouse again, and that’s okay. Sometimes there’s too much hurt, resentment, and built-up anger to make reconciliation possible; in cases like that, many individuals would prefer to start over. Some people decide to focus their effort on one last attempt at reconnecting, while others continue to entertain the idea of divorce for weeks, months, or even years before making a decision.
The Final Decision is Yours
No one can tell you what’s right for you. While a Durham divorce lawyer can give you guidance and make suggestions based on your circumstances, the final decision is yours alone. Have confidence in your ability to make sound and reasonable judgments—you can, and will, make the right choice.
