Bob Merlin

Talking Does Not Have to Mean Fighting Some attorneys tell clients not to speak with their spouse during a contested divorce. In my experience, that is not realistic because you and your spouse will probably communicate, particularly if you have children or shared financial responsibilities. I encourage you to listen respectfully to what your spouse has to say without feeling like you need to make an immediate decision. A simple response such as, “I will think about that,” gives you time to consider the proposal and speak with your attorney before agreeing to anything. Know What You Are Agreeing To A conversation with your spouse may lead to a solution that seems simple or reasonable. Before you agree, however, you need to understand what that…

Why More Couples Are Divorcing Later in Life If you have noticed more friends, relatives, or neighbors ending their long-term marriages, you are not alone. Gray divorce, which refers to divorce among adults age 50 and older, has increased significantly over the past two decades.  From 8% of all divorces 20 years ago to 40% of all divorces today. Changing Attitudes About Divorce Years ago, many couples remained married despite serious relationship problems. Some stayed together because they had young children, while others worried they would not have enough income or assets to support themselves after a divorce. Today, divorce is more socially accepted, and many older adults have greater financial independence. If you have spent years trying to resolve marital issues without success, you…

Resolving your divorce outside of court helps protect your family’s privacy. It keeps sensitive financial and personal information out of the public record, and it gives you greater control over the outcome. Private divorce processes like Mediation and Collaborative Divorce encourage customized solutions and healthier co-parenting. Court intervention should be a last resort for situations where cooperation, appropriate negotiations or full disclosure is not possible. Settling Out of Court Protects Your Family’s Privacy One of the biggest benefits of settling a divorce out of court is that it protects your family’s privacy. While some documents must be filed with the court, many financial and personal matters can be handled privately instead of becoming part of the public record. By resolving matters privately, you and your…

Learning that your spouse wants a divorce when you do not can be difficult to accept. You can feel disappointed, frustrated, angry, or uncertain about what comes next. While you cannot force your spouse to remain married, you can make decisions that protect your financial future, your children, and your peace of mind. When Only One Spouse Wants a Divorce In Florida, one spouse can move forward with a divorce even if the other spouse does not agree. If your spouse has decided to end the marriage, your divorce will eventually happen. The question is not whether the divorce will occur, but what will the process and outcome look like. Many people who do not want a divorce, spend a significant amount of time trying…

If you notice major changes in your spouse’s behavior, increased conflict, financial secrecy, or emotional distance, these may be signs that your marriage is in trouble. Recognizing these warning signs early will give you an opportunity to address problems, improve communication, and possibly repair the relationship before a divorce becomes inevitable. 1. Changes in Behavior Can Signal Trouble One of the most common warning signs that your marriage is in trouble is a noticeable change in your spouse’s conduct. You see them spending less time at home, withdrawing from family activities, or showing less interest in conversations with you and your children. In some cases, a spouse will seem emotionally disconnected or less engaged in your relationship. When they begin to pull away from the…

Divorce does not have to damage your children’s well-being when you keep their needs at the center of your decisions. Respectful communication, stable routines, and cooperative parenting will help your children feel more secure and supported during this transition. Processes like mediation and Collaborative Divorce help parents create practical parenting plans that focus on the child’s daily life and long-term well-being. Put Your Children’s Needs First When you are making divorce decisions, you may feel pulled toward what benefits you most in the moment. Shifting focus toward your children supports better long-term outcomes for your children. Thinking about your children first means considering how each choice affects their daily routines, relationships, and sense of security. It also means avoiding demands the other parent cannot realistically…