Can a Couple Survive Infidelity?

        According to statistics, one in every 2.7 couples is touched at some point in their lives by infidelity.  Some marriages survive the affair, while others end as a result of it.  Infidelity may be a direct cause of the break-up or merely a symptom of other problems which indicate the marriage was not working.

Each person will have to determine the significance of the affair to their marriage and decide upon an appropriate course of action.  Determining whether to recommit to the marriage or to end it is an intensely personal decision which each individual must weigh very carefully.  Specific legal concerns that might arise out of such issues are:

*What is the significance of the affair?
*Should I undergo counseling?
*Are therapy records subject to subpoena?
*What impact does the affair have on custody matters?
*What impact does the affair have on financial matters?
*How should I handle questions about the affair?
*Can the other party to the affair be subpoenaed or protected from subpoena?

Each person’s situation is different, and rather than relying strictly on the advice of well-meaning family or friends, the best course of action is to consult a family law attorney.

Ten Tips for Going Through Separation or Divorce

1. Get legal advice early.

2. Do not move out of the house without having consulted a family law attorney.

3. Do not sign anything without having consulted a family law attorney.

4. Keep a written journal of key events or conversations.

5. Be fair, but protect yourself.

6. Explore all avenues for saving your marriage before jumping into divorce; if your marriage cannot be saved, work with your attorney to develop the best process for your individual situation. 

7. Gather financial documents.

8. Make sure you have funds at your disposal for an attorney and for temporary expenses.

9. Keep your children out of the middle no matter what their ages and keep their best interest foremost in your mind and your heart.

10. Consider any temporary measures necessary to preserve assets or protect credit.