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When your spouse doesn’t want a divorce

On Behalf of | Dec 21, 2022 | Personal Injury |

There are many reasons why a New Jersey couple might want a divorce. It’s not uncommon for couples to grow apart as they grow older and learn more about themselves.

Unfortunately, it’s even more common for one person to seek a divorce while the other spouse doesn’t. A lot of emotions can go into a divorce like this, making it difficult to navigate.

Why one spouse might decide to leave

There are several reasons for one person to decide to leave. Maybe you’ve spent a long time trying to make things work only to realize it’s not worth it, or a huge boundary has been crossed.

Regardless of why you’re seeking a divorce, your feelings are valid and you have a right to end your marriage. One spouse decidedly not wanting to get divorced could make the process more difficult, however.

How to tell your spouse you’re leaving

Before you settle on divorce, it might be worth it to pursue other options such as couples counseling. If you feel you’ve exhausted all of your options, it’s important to consider how you’re going to approach your spouse about divorce.

Odds are, you’ve had this conversation before and your spouse has disagreed with your decision. It’s important to state your intentions clearly, calmly, and compassionately.

You don’t want to start an argument and you want to be firm, but also be prepared to explain the why. You’ll also want to have a plan to get space afterward, such as going to your friend or family members.

If you have children, you should make sure they’re not around while you and your spouse are having this conversation. In addition to hurting them, it will only make things harder for you and your spouse.

Pursuing your divorce

Worst case, your spouse might refuse to sign divorce papers or they’ll purposefully make the process harder. It’s important to keep your composure and not budge on your decision.

Eventually, your spouse will accept the realities of what’s happening – or the court of law will make them. It can be difficult and emotionally draining to go through a divorce while one spouse is kicking and screaming, but it’s worth it for how much happiness you’ll feel afterward.

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