Like other couples across the country, those getting married here in Massachusetts never expect the relationship will end. Even couples who enter into prenuptial agreements may not believe that their marriages will end in divorce. More often than not, the decision to divorce is not something that happens overnight. Instead, it happens slowly and may even sneak up on the one who brings up the subject first.
In the beginning of a marriage, the parties typically care deeply for each other. They take an interest in even the most mundane activities of the other and show concern when things do not go the way the other party anticipates. Over time, something changes, and one or both parties may begin to feel more apathetic toward the other. As time goes on, the intimacy between the partners fades or goes away completely.
Under these circumstances, a married couple can feel more like roommates than two people in a relationship and in love. Nerves are frayed, arguments may increase and at least one of the parties loses hope that the situation will improve. The problems in the marriage start to leach into other areas of their lives. The emotional fallout could affect their other relationships, work and even health.
The decision to divorce may come with a sense of relief, but that feeling may not last for long. Even when a Massachusetts couple remains amicable, going through this process can be intimidating, emotional and frustrating. Ending a marriage requires untangling finances and property. If children are involved, working out custody, child support and other issues related to them require attention. Each party needs to protect his or her rights and work toward a settlement that allows them at least some financial security as they enter into a new phase of life.