Divorce can be a stressful business, both emotionally and legally. But it’s made even messier by the abundance of myths and misconceptions surrounding it.
From who gets custody of the children to the reasons for divorce, there are many widespread falsehoods that need to be exposed.
So grab a seat, buckle up, and get ready to have your illusions shattered as we debunk seven common divorce myths that you’ve probably heard before. If you need more help, reach out to a Minneapolis divorce lawyer at Martine Law today.
Myth #1: Divorces Are Always Messy
Divorces are not always messy. They can be simple and straightforward, just like any other life transition. Just as marriage is an emotional journey, divorce is a dynamic process that doesn’t have to involve a lot of conflict or animosity.
Though it may take time for both parties involved in a divorce to move forward emotionally, it does not have to be chaotic and destructive. With commitment from both sides and professional help, divorcing couples can get past their differences with respect and civility – paving the way toward mutual closure.
Myth #2: Divorce is Always Financially Devastating
Divorce is often seen as a financial disaster, like an unstoppable tornado wiping out everything in its path. But the truth might surprise you—divorce doesn’t have to be financially devastating. It can provide both parties with much-needed relief.
Couples deciding to get divorced usually work together and devise a settlement plan based on their finances and lifestyle needs. This means each party should end up with what they are entitled to under the law—which may not always leave them feeling bankrupt or destitute.
Myth #3: A Divorce Will Ruin Your Children’s Lives
When it comes to the emotional well-being of children whose parents have divorced, there is a common misconception that all such kids experience intense and long-term mental anguish.
However, this isn’t always true.
Research has shown that most children who go through a divorce can cope with the situation healthily, given the right support. Many children of divorce turn out well, and can process their emotions positively and flexibly.
They may be better equipped to handle future relationship difficulties due to having gone through a tough breakup. They learn to problem-solve challenging situations independently, which can help them develop resilience. Some children might also benefit from parental separation if the home environment was unhealthy or toxic before the split.
Myth #4: Divorce is Always a Mutual Decision
Divorce is a difficult decision for any couple. Many people still believe that divorce is always mutual—that both parties decide together to end their relationship and move on with life. The truth, however, paints a very different picture.
As if navigating the complex emotional toll of marriage isn’t challenging enough, sometimes one spouse decides to file for divorce without consulting or informing their partner beforehand. This unilateral choice can shock the other person, who may not have even been aware of marital discord until they receive official paperwork in the mail.
Myth #5: Divorce is Always Time-consuming
Divorce is often considered a lengthy process, like a never-ending marathon. But the truth is that this isn’t always the case. In some instances, it can be surprisingly quick. Depending on your particular situation, divorces can take anywhere from weeks to years.
The amount of time needed depends largely on the complexity of each couple’s individual divorce agreement. If both parties can come to a mutually agreed-upon resolution without much legal negotiation or dispute, then they may be able to get divorced more quickly than if they were battling over custody arrangements or financial issues.
Myth #6: Women Always Get Custody of the Children
This is a common misconception based on traditional gender roles. However, child custody decisions are determined case by case, prioritizing the child’s best interests.
The court considers factors such as:
- The child’s age
- The child’s relationship with each parent
- Each parent’s ability to provide for their child’s needs
- Any history of abuse or neglect
Shared parenting, where both parents have equal access to their children, is increasingly recognized as beneficial. Ultimately, gender is not a determining factor in custody decisions, and both parents can play a meaningful role in their children’s lives after divorce.
Myth #7: Divorce Always Leads to a Bitter Court Battle
Divorce doesn’t have to be a contested battle. Divorcing couples can agree without the need for litigation or court involvement. Couples can make decisions about their future amicably and with mutual respect through mediation and other collaborative divorce processes.
In many cases, uncontested divorces are preferred since they allow both parties to avoid additional stress associated with lengthy proceedings in court. There is no need for either party to feel like they’re “winning” or “losing,” but rather working together towards the best resolution for them both.
This arrangement also saves time and money by eliminating expensive legal fees and allowing couples to move forward more quickly than through traditional courtroom procedures.
Don’t Let Divorce Myths Lead You Astray: Turn to Martine Law for Reliable Legal Help
Are you going through a divorce and feeling overwhelmed by all the misinformation out there?
Don’t let these myths lead you astray and cause you to make decisions that could harm your case. Instead, turn to the experienced and compassionate divorce lawyers at Martine Law in Minneapolis.
Our team understands the complexities of divorce law and will work tirelessly to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for you and your family. We’ll cut through the noise and give you reliable guidance grounded in reality, not myths or wishful thinking.
So don’t hesitate—contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a brighter future.
