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The stigma that once accompanied divorce appears to be long gone as divorce announcements become more and more common across the U.S. The news that a marriage has ended may be somber, happy, or just a relief that an ex-spouse wants to share with friends and acquaintances.
Greeting Cards, Letters, E-mails
Announcing "my divorce is final" has been done by letter, greeting card, and e-mail. Several websites offer "divorce cards." The announcements have ranged from brief "it's finally over" messages to detailed letters updating the recipients with matters such as:
The announcements have been designed in a variety of formal, casual, creative and funny messages.
A Feeling of Closure
Marriage and divorce counselors have noted the benefits that announcing a divorce can bring, including a sense of closure and freedom. Additionally, according to professionals, marking the end of a divorce can aid the healing process and result in increased emotional support from an individual's circle of family, friends and coworkers.
However, divorce attorneys point out that a divorce announcement can adversely affect a judge's outlook in a custody battle, and they have cautioned their clients to not send out such an announcement prematurely.
A Risk of Backfiring
In addition, a divorce announcement can "backfire;" a well-known case is that of Robert Olen Butler, a professor and Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist who notified a few of his colleagues and students by e-mail about his wife's leaving him, in order to prevent false rumors. His e-mail was leaked to the internet, releasing the news about his marriage troubles worldwide.
(Source: New York Times)
Learn More about Divorce Announcements
If you're considering divorcing, and would like to learn more about the pros and cons of divorce announcements, contact us to schedule a private consultation with an experienced divorce lawyer in your area.