IT DOESN'T HAVE TO BE THAT WAY

A step-by-step guide to divorce.

When a couple walks down the aisle to be joined in marriage, the last thing on their minds is divorce. Yet with divorce rates ever rising, it is important for couples to understand the legal ramifications if a breakup eventually occurs. With more than 20 years of expertise, especially with celebrity clients, divorce lawyer Wasser brings her considerable knowledge to the table and guides readers on the intricate process of separating from one's spouse while minimizing the emotional and financial harm to each other or to any children in the picture. Using examples from her celebrity clients and her own life to illustrate her points, Wasser's advice is relevant to same-sex couples, mixed-race couples and heterosexual relationships. From the first moments of saying, “I want a divorce,” to the first moments of freedom, Wasser's straightforward and sometimes-humorous advice is simple and easy to follow. She emphasizes the need for communication so that the dissolution of the relationship is amicable and fair and causes the least amount of damage to all parties. She particularly stresses the need for civility when children are involved; even though one parent may be divorcing the other, they will still have contact with each other through the life of the child. From finding a lawyer to separating the items in a household, through child support, custody schedules and paying for spousal support, Wasser's recommendations are just the kind of advice men and women need. Brief lists at the end of each chapter help readers stay on track as they navigate the emotional, physical and financial circles of disconnecting and transitioning from one life-changing process to another.

Practical and constructive information on breaking up a marriage.