Areas of Practice
Family Law
Counseling In A Divorce
Formerly, there was a counseling requirement so that a couple had to attend at least one counseling session before the court could grant a divorce. This requirement has been eliminated, and there is no longer a counseling requirement to comply with.
Should I Attend Counseling?
If you are involved in a divorce action, it is/will be one of the most difficult periods of your life. It is very important for you to be able to express your feelings with a professional who can counsel with you. This individual should not be your attorney, who normally is not trained in counseling, but a marriage counselor or other trained professional. Also, we find that many clients are not sure that they want a divorce and are unsure as to whether the marriage can be saved. Counseling will help on these issues. We find that many clients rely on the opinions of their friends as to the future of the marriage, and while advice from friends may be helpful, it is normally no substitute for the advice and assistance of a trained counselor.
If there are problems in your marriage, and you are uncertain as to whether it is in your best interests to continue the marriage, we strongly urge you to attend counseling, even if your spouse is unwilling to attend. Even if you have to go by yourself, you will have a better understanding of the pressures in your marriage and whether the continuation of the marriage is in your best interest. Counseling with a skilled counselor will help you make a decision about whether your marriage can be saved or whether divorce is the only realistic alternative. If you do not know the name of a counselor, you should be able to get a referral from your attorney, your doctor or your pastor. If you have a health insurance plan, the plan may have a list of approved counselors. You may also want to call Family Court Counseling Service (608) 266 4607 for answers to questions concerning custody and physical placement of your children.
