Any divorce is a very delicate subject. Either both of you knew that this was a long time coming, or one spouse had absolutely no idea. In telling your spouse that you are contemplating a divorce—or perhaps that you are seeing an attorney—you must be very delicate in your approach. I suggest that you sit down with your spouse and talk about this matter beforehand. There is nothing more shocking than opening a door—or opening a present—and finding divorce papers. Quite frankly, it's a little tacky. However, if you have children, you and your spouse will be at several events in the future, whether it’s graduations, weddings, or other happy events. You do not want to poison your relationship with your spouse, knowing that they will have a lifetime of seeing you and remembering this event. You should always take caution when discussing a divorce with your spouse.

Alison C. Leslie, Esq. practices family law exclusively in her Morristown, NJ offices, where she offers her clients the individualized attention of a solo practitioner with the experience of a larger firm. She can be reached at (973) 631-8002. View her website and Divorce Magazine profile.