The end of a marriage or partnership isn't something people anticipate when they first pair up. According to Divorce.com, 73% of people surveyed mentioned a lack of commitment to the marriage as one reason for deciding to divorce. Couples entering the separation stage would do well to keep the separation as peaceful as possible. It's possible to have a healthy separation. To do that, both partners need to listen carefully to their lawyers.

Both Parties Keep the Promises They Make

It's not a healthy separation if one or both of the parties involved lie to each other or don't follow through. People make mistakes, and random problems can occur that upend something those people had planned to do. However, when there's deliberate deception, then the parties quickly become suspicious. This leads to resistance toward further cooperation. The best family lawyers know that if both partners want a healthy, calm separation, then they both need to stay true to their word.

Both Approach the Separation Like a Contract

By the time a marriage or domestic partnership reaches the point where one or both parties want to separate, the love is lost. That doesn't mean the separation can't be amicable, but it can bring home the fact that the marriage or partnership is truly about to end. That can potentially make the separation less amicable as the people involved try to protect themselves mentally. A good way to approach the separation is to treat it like a contract. People know a healthy business relationship is calm and straightforward; if they can re-create that practical atmosphere for the separation, then they have a better chance of making it a healthy one. The best family lawyers know that this can be difficult, but it's one of the best ways to succeed.

Neither Party Gets Rid of Anything Without a Lawyer's OK

People throw out things, give away things, and recycle or donate things; that's a natural part of life. However, sometimes those things are actually assets that should be divided up in the divorce, and getting rid of them can create complications. The best family lawyers know that it's not always easy to determine what can go and what each party has to hold onto until the divorce is final. Should the separated spouses or partners want to do some spring cleaning, they should check with their respective lawyers to ensure they don't run afoul of property and asset division.

If you find your marriage headed toward divorce, make a decision now to make that separation healthy. It's better for you and everyone around you. A family lawyer can help you navigate the process. Contact Benson Trial Group for more information.