The value and emphasis that American culture places on marriage makes the decision to seek divorce one of the most difficult decisions any person or couple can make. Couples struggling in their relationships are put in a more difficult situation just by bringing the possibility of divorce into the picture.
The impact of cultural, societal and religious standards on marriage as an institution is undeniable. Just consider for a moment the ongoing national debate about same-sex marriage. That has people across the country bitterly divided. Now a bill being debated in Alabama could ignite a new round of debate. Lawmakers in that state are considering a bill that would make it more difficult for people to get divorced.
Divorce is rarely easy. Our Raleigh divorce lawyers have seen many cases. Sometimes there may still be hope for saving a relationship. In many others, none. By the time most married couples reach the point of pursuing a divorce, their relationship bears little resemblance to the heady days of early romance and both parties have more than a few scars to show for their experience.
Changing divorce laws to put more hurdles in the way of these couples peacefully resolving their problems is not the logical route to follow. It is also not a route that is going to help solve the problems that lead many couples to divorce court.
It could even have a more negative affect, by masking the problems.
If the goal is to strengthen the institution of marriage, the attention needs to be on the front end. Providing better training in relationship skills, encouraging couples to take advantage of counseling and support systems and making sure those support systems are readily available would do more to help reduce the rate of divorce.
Successful marriages require special efforts by both parties. These marriages may not always be perfect, but they work because people have or find the skills they need to make them work. Couples that are struggling need help getting those skills and tools.
Our website contains a number of links to sites and programs that can help people find resources designed to help them save their marriages. If you want more information on these services or to discuss how they work, contact us.
