D is for Divorce. It is a dreaded and unpleasant word. It is drastic. It is serious.

Divorce should never be taken lightly. It should not be cast around as if it is something less than a nuclear option. A cavalier attitude can lead to monumental consequences.

Threatening divorce could even contribute towards having grounds for divorce in the form of emotional or verbal abuse. So, what do you do if your spouse threatens divorce?

• Recognize that they are upset about something and try to identify the problem.
• Consider marriage counseling with a licensed counselor or pastor, with experience.
• Have an assessment with an experienced family law attorney.
• Educate yourself about: 
  • Divorce 101 in your state
  • Financial assets and liabilities of the marriage
  • Custody and Child Support 101

With divorce being a part of marriage and life there is no good reason not to be educated about the process.

Matthew Thompson is a Divorce attorney in Mississippi and cautions you not to say “divorce” if you don’t mean it.