While divorce often poses unique issues to each couple navigating the complicated, emotionally wrought path, there are often overlapping issues that are widely experienced by those facing the end of a marriage. Splitting assets, property and material goods can be difficult, tedious and time-consuming. Navigating custody decisions, parental responsibilities and family life can be heartbreaking. But one aspect of a split that is not often discussed in court is how a couple will split mutual friends. Shared friendships are messy during any split or break-up, regardless how amicably it is resolved.
Yet, in contemporary marriages, friends are often shared. Often times married couples begin as friends, and therefore their mutual friends are exactly that – truly and unequivocally mutual. In these situations, how does one prepare themselves and their friends for the uncharted territory that is to come? Friends often feel the need to choose, or try to maintain friendships with both only to have the choice ultimately made for them. After all, social gatherings attended by both parties can be uncomfortable for all involved, not limited to the couple alone. Read more.