Are you married and find yourself wondering, “Is my spouse thinking about divorce?”
Have there been changes in your relationship that are hard to ignore? Maybe these changes happened gradually or they have been pointed out by your friends and family. Maybe you have avoided thinking about them, hoping things will get better over time. But what if your spouse really wants a divorce?
There are a number of common signs that might make you think your spouse is going to file for divorce. Knowing what they are can help you determine your next steps – whether that’s improving your relationship or preparing for a divorce. Let’s take a close, thoughtful look at what these changes might mean and how they can help you through this challenging time.
Common Signs That Your Spouse Wants a Divorce
Sometimes people are surprised when they realize their spouse wants a divorce. They may understand their marriage wasn’t going well but not that things had gotten that bad. However, if your spouse has taken steps to initiate legal separation or divorce, there probably were warning signs you may have missed. Here are some of the most common signs:
- Avoiding you: If your spouse is suddenly avoiding spending time with you this could be a sign that they are distancing themself from you. They may be more interested in spending time with friends and family or they may simply prefer to be alone.
- Loss of intimacy: If your spouse is no longer interested in being intimate with you this could be a sign that they are no longer attracted to you or that they are emotionally unavailable or interested in another.
- Poor communication: If your spouse is unwilling to communicate about important issues this could be a sign they are shutting you out and no longer care about your feelings.
- You feel as if you have a roommate, not a spouse or life partner. This could be a sign that your relationship is in trouble.
- Critical or contemptuous: If your spouse is constantly criticizing you or putting you down this could be a sign that they no longer respect you.
- If your spouse is suddenly busy with work or other commitments it could be a sign that they are trying to avoid you.
- Changes in appearance: If your spouse has recently made significant changes to their appearance this could be a sign that they are attempting to attract another.
- Secret bank accounts or phone: If your spouse has opened any type of accounts that you were unaware of it could be a sign they are hiding something from you.
- Their search history: The clearest sign of all? If your spouse has been searching for divorce information online this could be a sign that they are seriously considering ending the marriage.
Is it too soon to speak with a lawyer?
If you are concerned that your spouse is thinking about divorce now is the right time to consult a lawyer. A qualified attorney will create a divorce strategy that helps you understand your legal options and your case. And as you prepare for divorce, they will walk with you every step of the way.
Sven Buncher at Buncher Law Firm is one of only 1% of all California attorneys who are a Certified Family Law Specialist and is a top divorce attorney in Orange County with over 25 years of experience. Since 1996, his team has helped thousands of clients minimize costs and maximize results, with the highest degree of personal care and legal representation.