Alternatives To Divorce

January is known as “Divorce Month” because after the holidays, many people want to start the New Year on the right note—divorced.

You may not want to keep staying in a dead-end relationship. However, you should know that divorce is not your only option. You can turn your miserable marriage into a purpose-driven one. Couples are opting for alternatives to divorce, such as one of the following.

Living Apart Together Marriage

In this divorce alternative, the couple is still married, but living in separate houses. This is often done for personal or financial reasons. For example, those with established careers who want to live on opposite sides of the country may desire a living apart together type of marriage. Or maybe you love the ocean, but your spouse would rather live in the mountains. You can still stay married with this option.

This allows each person to have their own space, which means more independence. This option can be confusing for those with children, plus it can be costly to maintain separate residences. It’s also not a good idea for those who are jealous. However, for childless couples who like having their own space, it’s a good way to stay married without having to live together.

Parenting Marriage 

When children are involved, getting a divorce can be complicated. In a parenting marriage, couples are no longer romantic partners. Instead, they become platonic co-parents. Most couples who choose a parenting marriage do it by default. That is, they are sticking around just for the kids, but never really discussed that with their spouse.

A parenting marriage means that you would ideally divorce, but you want to reduce the stress on your children, so you’re staying married. However, it can be challenging to change the way you see your marriage and handle new expectations, but at least it keeps the household intact until the children turn 18—that is, if you can wait that long.

Open Marriage

This is the most extreme type of marriage. It is meant as a last resort, and certainly not for jealous ones or the faint of heart. As you probably know, an open marriage is one in which the parties are allowed to have romantic and sexual relationships with others outside of the marriage. When both parties agree to it, it is not considered cheating.

This is a radical step, though, and some couples swear that it saved their marriage. For others, it could ruin it, so consider it carefully.

Seek Help for Your Divorce

While these three options can be helpful to many couples, some people just want out. They want to start fresh with a new partner who will appreciate them.

If divorce is still the right option for your situation, you’re not alone. The Dade City & Zephyrhills family law attorneys at Madonna Law Group have more than 40 years of combined experience. We can help you find solutions for you and your family. Schedule a consultation today by calling (800) 557-0411 or filling out the online form.

Source:

huffpost.com/entry/consider-one-of-these-thr_b_6419444