Myths vs Fact: Don’t Believe These 4 Common Divorce Misconceptions

Updated November 27, 2023

When you are going through a divorce, you can practically count on friends and family giving advice that doesn’t apply to your case and may not even be accurate. You may even have your own divorce misconceptions, acquired from TV, the movies, and social media. This is why we have compiled five of the most common myths about divorce, so you can readily recognize them and advance to a better and more positive stage of your life.

Myth No. 1: Everyone Will Think You Gave Up Too Easily

Every situation is unique. Some people will tell you that a marriage can be hard work and, by divorcing, you are ‘taking the easy way out’. Keep a clear mind and know that folks who generalize your divorce have not walked in your shoes. People who file for divorce typically do so after months (or years) of fruitless efforts put into making the relationship work. You are NOT throwing in the towel. You are acknowledging that you have done your best and it is time to move on.

Myth No. 2: You Should Stay Together for the Kids

Those who oppose divorce for personal or religious reasons will insist that you and your spouse should work things out or, at the very least, stay together for the sake of the children. Filing for divorce does not make you a bad parent. What IS bad for the kids is seeing their parents unhappy and fighting all the time. For some couples, separating is much more beneficial for the family than staying together.

Myth No. 3: Co-Parenting Doesn’t Really Work

This misconception comes from the fact that decades ago, when mothers almost invariably received custody, fathers played little role in their children’s upbringing. He simply got on with his life while sending support checks and seeing the kids on special occasions. Today, regardless of which spouse has primary residency, parents who are willing to do so can work together to give their children the happiest and most secure life possible. Your attorney’s job is to lay out a plan with you that creates a balance for everyone involved.

Myth No. 4: You Don’t Need an Attorney

This common misconception could literally cost you. While you are not legally obligated to hire a divorce attorney, doing so ensures that you get the proper guidance on many items that most folks simply do not have the experience or know-how to do on their own, such as:

• Navigating the state laws that will affect your case
• Proper division of assets and finances
• Handling court filings in a timely, efficient manner
• Helping you make educated decisions upfront that will mitigate your need for Post Judgment changes.  

You deserve to start your new life on sound legal footing, which is something an experienced Connecticut divorce attorney can provide.

Thank you for reading about five of the most common divorce misconceptions. Divorce is a new beginning, and as such, you need to make decisions that are not compromised by myths and misconceptions. Let Freed Marcroft be your source of honest and legally valid advice once you are ready to take that step. To contact us and speak to a team member, START HERE.