It always seems like a Faustian choice: to divorce or not divorce? You want to divorce because you know that no amount of work or therapy can mend your relationship. However, you also don't want your children to grow up without their mom or dad around.
You don't want to feel like you are putting your own happiness above that of your children. So you are left with no good choices. And if divorcing parents cannot come to amicable terms, then the process of working out a custody agreement can become extremely protracted.
A case in point is the custody battle between Gossip Girl actress Kelly Rutherford and her former husband. The actress has been trying to retain custody of her two children for six years. She wants them to stay with her, but may lose custody to her ex-husband, Daniel Giersch, a European businessman. Ms. Rutherford and Mr. Giersch have shared custody of the children. But since 2012, the children have been residing in Monaco and France. According to Ms. Rutherford, the children know what's going on and want to stay with their mother. The case is expected to be decided by a Judge in Monaco in the next few weeks.
While this custody battle receives attention because of the fame of those involved, any divorce is a complicated legal, emotional and financial process that creates stress for all involved. It is important to remember that if you have children, divorce affects them as well, and to keep their needs ahead of your own.
Consulting with an experienced family law attorney may help to ensure that you make the best decision for you and your family. Divorce does not need to be contentious or acrimonious. It can be amicable and shared by you and your ex-spouse. Staying on good terms with your ex-spouse makes the entire process simpler and raising your children more enjoyable. A family law attorney could review your rights and help you make the best decisions for your children and your family.
Source: Page Six, "Amid custody fight, Kelly Rutherford works to help other families," Andrew Nodell, Nov. 23, 2015