Some Michigan couples may be familiar with the work of the writer and marriage counselor John Gottman, who says that he can predict with reasonable accuracy which couples are more likely to divorce. While Gottman says that defensiveness, stonewalling and criticism are all dangerous behaviors for a marriage's health, he has identified contempt as the main predictor of divorce.
How to get ready for negotiations in a divorce
During a divorce, a Michigan couple has the choice of negotiating a settlement or going to court. With proper preparation, negotiation may be possible. However, for this to be successful, people should understand their finances, state law and their priorities as well as those of their spouse.
Divorce in the smartphone age can involve spy tech
Social media, smartphones and other technology can play an important role in the divorces of Michigan residents. Whether social media postings led one partner to rekindle an old relationship or the use of video games or other technology led to distance in a marriage, divorce has become just as connected to tech as other aspects of modern American life. Even when technology had no connection to the decision, people may be concerned about social media rumors or stories about screenshots being introduced into divorce proceedings. However, an even greater and more dangerous concern can be digital spying or electronic surveillance that makes use of GPS tracking, smartphone apps, remote video recording and other devices.
Families increase with addition of stepchildren
For families in Michigan and throughout the country, a divorce may eventually result in bigger ones. A study found that counting stepchildren in families with adult children gives a number that is 66 percent larger.
What to do if you suspect a divorce is coming
Usually, the prospect of divorce is something a couple has discussed or knows is coming. Increased arguments, spousal absence and emotional distance are a few signs. Couples may even try legal or informal separation first.
How to handle the holiday season after divorce
Parents in Michigan who get a divorce might need to plan for how they and their children will spend the holidays. Having children move between homes can be stressful for the children, but parents usually want to see their children for holidays as well. One of the first steps parents should take is putting the focus on the children instead of their own feelings.
How women entrepreneurs can protect their assets during a divorce
When Michigan residents get divorced, they may need to determine how assets are divided. This can be especially challenging for women entrepreneurs whether they are sole proprietors or business partners with their soon-to-be ex-spouse. The more a woman entrepreneur knows about the actual value of her business and any potential debt or future growth her business can expect, the better position she will be in to have a favorable outcome during the divorce.
Steps in getting a divorce
Michigan residents who are seeking to end their marriages might wonder where to begin the process. Divorces differ based on individual situations, but there are a few elements that are common.
Deciding whether or not to divorce
Some couples in Michigan may have heard that half of marriages end in divorce. However, in some cases, divorce might be the right choice. If people going through a divorce can shift their thinking away from the idea that divorce means the relationship is a failure, they may be able to proceed with the divorce without emotions like guilt or resentment interfering with their divorce agreement.
With online dating, divorce rates may drop
Married couples in Michigan that met online may have lower divorce rates than those that met in other ways. Although there is a stereotype that online dating only leads to casual relationships, studies have found that it may result in more stable relationships.
