COVID-19 Information

Despite the impact of COVID-19, we are open and continuing to meet the needs of our existing clients and new clients without interruption or change in the quality of our services. Please do not hesitate to contact us with any concerns, questions or requests for information about your matter. At this time we are offering appointments via telephonic and/or video conferencing.
To help out during these trying times we are offering Free Consultations. Click here to Schedule a Consultation.

Despite the impact of COVID-19, we are open and continuing to meet the needs of our existing clients and new clients without interruption or change in the quality of our services. Please do not hesitate to contact us with any concerns, questions or requests for information about your matter. At this time we are offering appointments via telephonic and/or video conferencing.
To help out during these trying times we are offering Free Consultations. Click here to Schedule a Consultation.

Newsome O'Donnell | Family Law

We Listen. We Think. We Find Solutions.

Let Our Experience
Help You Meet Your Goals

Photo of Lynn Fontaine Newsome and Edward J. O’Donnell

When to leave or stay in a marriage

Nov 16, 2017 | Divorce

New Jersey parents who are considering getting a divorce may be reluctant to do so because of their children. Before they make a decision regarding staying in the marriage or leaving to go their separate ways, there are some issues to which they should give serious thought.

Some people may hesitate to leave their marriage because they still have hope that the marriage can be repaired. However, they have to keep in mind that rebuilding a marriage is a process that will take time and involve intensive self-reflection and effort.

Parents may also want to stay in a marriage because they are aware of the effects a divorce has on children. Children whose parents get divorce are likely to experience difficulty in handling their emotions. They are also more likely to get a divorce of their own as adults and have a lower chance of going to college.

The presence of abuse in a marriage is often reason enough to file for a divorce. Spouses who are emotionally, verbally and physically abused by their partner should prioritize their and their children’s safety over the marriage. They should also be aware that children who grow up in environments in which abuse is a factor have a greater chance of exhibiting or suffering from the same behavior.

Not getting along with a spouse is another reason that a divorce may be a wise choice. If all efforts to reach common ground have failed, such as attempts at counseling, it may be a sign that the marriage cannot be fixed.

An attorney who practices divorce law may advise clients who are considering getting a divorce about their legal options. The attorney may recommend using litigation to pursue the desired settlement terms regarding divorce legal issues, such as alimony, child custody and asset division.