Like most other people, you likely think of marriage as a common part of life. The Pew Research Center states that in 2017, half of people in the U.S. over the age of 18 had a spouse.
When you got married, you probably did not think your marriage would end in divorce, and you may feel unsure about the impending process. Here are a few myths about getting divorced and why they are untrue.
1. The court can deny your divorce
When you file for divorce, you technically ask the court system to approve the dissolution of your marriage. This does not necessarily mean the judge can deny this request. As long as you resolve all visitation, custody and financial issues in trial or through settlement, the court can grant your divorce.
2. Mothers always receive child custody
The court does not base child custody decisions on the gender of either parent. Rather, the court makes child custody decisions based on the children’s best interests, and this typically depends on a variety of factors and circumstances. These factors can include the ages of the children, their health, the availability of each parent and more.
3. Divorce is always contentious
You may assume that your divorce will be hostile and contentious. But it does not have to be this way. Other options, such as mediation and collaborative divorce, can help you and your spouse resolve conflicts together. Even if you do take your divorce to court, this does not necessarily mean the process will be antagonistic.