Divorce can be a complicated, stressful and overwhelming process for some people. Nobody gets married and anticipates they will later be separating from their spouse and negotiating property division. With divorce rates hovering around 50 percent, this is the reality many couples face. It is important to confront the situation with composure and calm. An important part of this is being fully informed of what to expect.
Unfortunately, there are many myths floating around that can color your expectations about divorce. You should take the initiative to educate yourself and dispel the misinformation that can misguide your decisions. The following are three of the most common myths about divorce.
1. Only women get alimony
According to Forbes, it is true that fewer men receive alimony than women, but this has more to do with assumptions and stigma than actual possibilities. Men are just as eligible to pursue alimony as women, but they often do not because they may associate spousal support with women. If you need financial support after a divorce, you can seek it regardless of your gender.
2. You can refuse to divorce
Many spouses who do not want a divorce believe that if they refuse to sign the papers or become uncooperative, they can halt the process from going forward. This is not true at all. In order for a court to grant a divorce, there must be evidence that the marriage is irrevocably damaged, and one person’s refusal to cooperate may do more to support this supposition than disprove it.
3. It has to go to court
You may also be under the impression that going to court is inevitable. On the contrary, if you and your ex are able to collaborate, negotiate and agree on alimony, property division and custody, there may be no need to see the inside of a courtroom. It is important to understand what you want out of your divorce when considering whether you intend to pursue litigation.