Should the state force couples to attend counseling sessions before their divorces are finalized? That’s what Oklahoma has just done. Oklahoma has one of the highest divorce levels in the nation. Since November 1st of last year, divorcing couples who have children need to attend four counseling sessions before they are able to obtain the divorce.
Each person attends their own sessions. It is not mediation or collaborative divorce, but rather to communicate information about the impact of divorce on children and the possible scenarios that could come up. Counselors ask the parent how they would handle particular situations seen post-divorce.
The goal of the counseling sessions is to get couples to reconsider their divorce, yet so far the program has not seen a single divorcing couple reconcile due to the sessions.
By the time someone gets the courage to say they want a divorce and take action, bringing up the subject of children may not be enough to save the marriage. More often, people won’t bring it up at all until after the children are grown.
Do you have questions about divorce counseling or getting a divorce in the State of Washington? Call Elise Buie Family Law Group, PLLC to schedule a consultation. Our family lawers will work with you to find a fair solution for everyone involved. We specialize in mediation and collaborative divorce. Read our website to learn more.
