When you propose or accept your partner’s marriage proposal, you’re likely thinking about all of the love and fun that will occur in your union. While this may be true for some time, eventually, you may notice those feelings fade. Whether your spouse cheats or you fall out of love, getting divorced can be mentally exhausting. However, understanding why people divorce can help you make the right choice. If you’re ready to proceed, a Hackensack, New Jersey divorce lawyer can help you navigate the process.
The Most Common Reasons Couples Get Divorced
There is a myriad of reasons that couples feel divorce is the best option. One of the most common reasons couples divorce is due to infidelity. When one spouse has a physical or emotional affair with another person, it can cause irreparable damage to the relationship, as cheating is considered the ultimate betrayal.
Another reason that many couples divorce is that financial issues will often lead to arguing. Those who are financially incompatible may often find themselves arguing because they disagree on how they should manage funds. Similarly, those who make different incomes may fight more often due to the perceived power imbalance that arises when one spouse makes more money than another.
What Are Fault and No-Fault Divorces?
While one of the most common reasons that couples divorce is due to irreconcilable differences, New Jersey courts do consider particular situations, leaving one party at fault for the divorce.
Fault divorce causes include adultery, willful desertion for at least one year, substance abuse for at least a year, or physical/mental abuse. Generally, fault divorces will impact how much alimony a spouse can be awarded.
No-fault divorces are more common, as it generally means that neither spouse did anything malicious to cause the marriage to deteriorate. Instead, the two parties can’t get along. This process tends to be much shorter than fault divorces, as the trials are quicker and less expensive.
Do You Need a Lawyer?
No matter the reason for your divorce, you’ll want to ensure you retain the help of a lawyer. When arguing a fault divorce in front of a judge, having an attorney to guide you through the process is crucial, as you don’t want to be caught off guard.
If you decide there’s no fault, ensuring you have a lawyer’s help during settlement is essential, as you should receive the money you are entitled to. Unfortunately, without a knowledgeable lawyer, you may not know you if you are entitled to your spouse’s social security benefits or money from their 401k.
When getting divorced, having a knowledgeable and seasoned attorney on your side is essential. HD Family Law can help you navigate the process to begin a new chapter in your life.
