Is It Time To Talk With Your Spouse About A Separation?

If you and your partner have been struggling to get along, facing impossible obstacles, or simply fighting constantly, you might be thinking about separating from them. The choice to separate can be either temporary or permanent but is often viewed as a way for you to enjoy some time apart from one another and re-evaluate how your relationship will function moving forward. Before you talk with your spouse about separating, however, it’s important to consider how this choice will impact your life. Here’s what you need to think about.

Will this be permanent?

For some couples, the choice to separate is a temporary one. If you simply need a break from your partner but aren’t interested in divorce or permanent separation, make sure you focus on this when you bring up the topic. Let them know that you do not want a permanent separation, but rather, that you need some time to yourself. A temporary separation can be a positive way to decide whether you want to continue living alone or whether your relationship is worth salvaging. Sometimes having some time apart can give you the clarity you’ve been searching for and can help you make important decisions about your future.

Is counseling an option?

Before you rush off to rent your own apartment, consider whether you and your partner should attend therapy or counseling together. Sometimes communicating in a more effective way can be beneficial. A therapist can help you accomplish this. If you and your partner constantly struggle to demonstrate your opinions and express your ideas in a healthy way, counseling could give you the skills you need to move forward and could prevent you from separating. Additionally, if you have children, family therapy can be quite beneficial after periods of stress.

How will your children be impacted?

When there are children involved, it’s important to consider how the separation will affect them. Whether your kids are five years old or seventeen, they will experience changes when you and your partner separate from one another. You’ll need to decide who your children will live with, how you’ll handle custody arrangements, and whether they’ll continue attending the same school. For some kids, dealing with separation can be emotionally stressful, so you’ll need to be ready to handle that. Open communication is very important for any family but is especially vital when you’re thinking about separating. Your kids will need to be reassured that you and your partner still love them.

No matter what type of situation you’re dealing with, it’s important to consult with an attorney in your state before you choose to separate. There may be legal steps you need to take before you and your partner take a break, so make sure you reach out to an attorney today. Your lawyer can guide you throughout the separation process and will let you know what steps you need to take in order to make your separation a legal one.

Questions? Ask the Lawyer. Get a FREE consultation. Call 855-768-8845 or visit www.askthelawyer.us