Are Simple, No-Fault Divorces Good or Bad?

I just read another blogger's post in which that blogger, (who will not be identified here), expressed an opinion that no-fault divorces are a bad thing.  In other words, that blogger believes that it should be more difficult for people to get a divorce.  I assume that blogger probably also believes that divorce is morally wrong.  What do you think?

As for me, obviously, since I am an Augusta, Georgia divorce lawyer, I support  Georgia's law which makes it relatively easy to get a divorce in this state without having to prove a fault ground, such as adultery, addiction, or cruel treatment.  In Georgia, a person must simply allege that the marriage is "irretrievably broken."  In short, he or she will then be entitled to get a divorce without having to allege or prove any fault grounds. 

It is not that I necessarily view divorce as a "good thing." No one really believes that.  However, I would hate to see our state make it more difficult for a woman to get out of a violent, abusive marriage.  In other words, in my opinion, no one should be forced to stay in an abusive relationship just because they cannot prove adultery, or another fault ground.  

In addition, I believe that Georgia courts should not be unduly expensive for folks who cannot afford contested divorces, which can cost thousands of dollars, (in contrast to much cheaper simple, uncontested divorces).  For instance, as divorce attorneys at the Goolsby Law Firm, LLC, in Augusta, GA, we often handle simple, uncontested divorces, with children, for as low as $500, plus costs.  Even then, we often see folks who struggle to afford it.  Justice should not only be for the wealthy!  Laws allowing relatively easy, cheap no-fault divorces are therefore necessary, in my opinion.

What is your opinion? 

Celebrity Divorces and Separations: Katy Perry and Russell Brand

[Photo from wikpedia]

Did you hear the latest Hollywood news?  According to various news reports, a California judge has signed documents which will grant a divorce filed late last year by British comedian Russell Brand from a talented American singer, Katy Perry. 

Technically, it appears that, under California divorce law, the divorce may not be final for another six months.  But, according to news reports, at least the divorce terms have been approved.  Coincidentally, Katy's new hit single is entitled, "The One That Got Away."

While, over the years, there have been many celebrity marriage success stories, this appears to be another example of how Hollywood careers can really put stress on celebrity marriages.  Here's hoping that they both have moved on and that they will find happiness and continued success in their respective careers.

Cayce Vice: Another Tragic Case of Domestic Violence

As divorce lawyers in Augusta, Georgia, we sometimes see, firsthand, in our divorce cases, the tragic results of family violence.  As a former career prosecutor, I prosecuted many cases involving domestic abuse.  Here, in Augusta, this past week, our community experienced a tragic loss of a 21 year old woman who was found dead in her apartment.  Police reportedly believe this young woman, Cayce Vice, is yet another tragic victim of domestic violence.  A prayer vigil was held by family and friends to remember her life.

We should likewise remember all the victims of family violence around the country.  According to Futures Without Violence, three women are murdered, on average, each day in this country by their husbands or boy friends.  Also, according to the Department of Justice, about 3.4 million people, mostly women, are the victims of stalking each year.

But that's enough about statistics.  Let us remember that these numbers are actually real people with families and friends -- like Cayce Vice -- who deserved to live and be left alone, but who are victims of these horrible crimes. 

Is Nagging Really the Number One Cause of Divorce?

According to an article in the Wall Street Journal this week, nagging is one of the primary causes of divorce.  Also, the article suggests that nagging is more common than adultery and that women are more responsible for nagging than men!  Check out the article for yourself at http://www.online.wsj.com/. 

Look, even though I am a man, I cannot defend "my kind" by simply agreeing with this article's conclusions!  First of all, as Augusta, Georgia divorce lawyers, we find that there are many other more prominent causes of divorce, including money issues, control issues, and lack of communication.  Also, we believe that men are just as prone as women to nag or complain about their spouses!

What do you think!?

Celebrity Marriage and Divorce: Jerry Seinfeld

[Photo of "Monk's Cafe" from wikipedia]

Last evening, I enjoyed a live concert performed here in Augusta, Georgia by one of my favorite comedians:  Jerry Seinfeld.  I believe the Seinfeld sitcom remains one of the best in television history!  During the question and answer session, following his hilarious stand-up act, Jerry pointed out that he has been happily married for twelve years.  Of course, that didn't prevent him from making a few funny jokes and observations about marriage and divorce! 

To paraphrase Jerry, he observed that marriage is about two people trying to get along without saying, "I hate you!"

As Augusta, Georgia divorce lawyers, we often hear from folks who, for many different reasons, couldn't accomplish that goal.  But maybe Jerry was right about marriage and divorce!  What do you think?

I noticed from Jerry Seinfeld's website that he is touring the entire country with his act.  If he comes to your area, you should really go and check it out!

Movies About Divorce: One Fine Day

[Photo of movie poster from wikipedia]

Since it's a Friday, (and it is Friday the Thirteenth, at that!), let's keep things light by talking about another one of my favorite movies dealing with divorce!  The movie is One Fine Day, a really good 1996 comedy film about a budding romance between two single, working parents, played by two fine actors, George Clooney and Michelle Pfeiffer.  Ms. Pfeiffer was also the executive producer of the movie.

Have you seen this movie?  What are some of your favorite movies dealing with divorce?

Divorce and Your Health

[Photo of Eva Longoria from wikipedia]

As Augusta, Georgia divorce lawyers, we often see many ways in which a divorce can impact peoples' lives.  One way involves your health.  Many women (and men) reportedly suffer from stress-related illnesses both during and following their divorces.

For example, according to various reports, Desperate Housewives actress Eva Longoria has recently admitted that, following her divorce from basketball star Tony Parker, she experienced a significant weight-loss problem.  But she added that she has overcome this problem through a new diet and exercise program.

You can overcome your problems following a divorce, too!