Someone once told me getting a divorce in United States is like being constipated...
it takes awhile for things to move.
They thought the judges want to see a cat fight between angry men and angry women.
Both mad because both feel like they have been cheated by not getting what they wanted over the years.
Well I did not know what this person was comparing the western divorce too, but I later found out this person was from Guam - known for quick divorces.
But a divorce in the United States can be a lengthy process.
Being unhappy is only the beginning.
There are a lot of hurdles to jump for the married person to become single.
Each state has either a fault or a no-fault clause, whereby the person filing for divorce has to establish if there is or is not a reason for the divorce.
The husband and the wife may need to be separated for a period of time before either can file for a divorce.
Some states require a legal separation before filing for a divorce.
If there are children, then there are even more dynamics.
The children are most important in a divorce.
The laws are designed to protect the children and their well-being.
Stability in maintaining the childrens lifestyle is a main concern of the judge.
Living in a community-property state means the assets are divided equally between husband and wife.
For example, if the house is in her name only, but she is married, the husband has equal rights to the house as property and can get half.
Still there is the emotional health of everyone.
Some couples end up needing divorce counseling and divorce therapy.
The more people know the better they can protect themselves.
Divorce can affect your life after you think it is all over.
So do your homework.