Initially, it can be hard to imagine being ready to remarry after divorce. The process of dissolution can be painful, both emotionally and financially. According to a 2014 Pew Research study, remarriage is on the rise. At least 40% of marriages include at least one previously married partner.

Remarriage could be in your future. If you do remarry after divorce, there are steps you can take to prevent conflicts you may have experienced during your first marriage or divorce. You can also make choices that help protect your kids and assets.

Why do marriages fail?

It’s an age-old question that actually has some answers: why do marriages fail? Marriages fail for many reasons, but there are some common struggles that couples face. If you plan to remarry after divorce, make sure you’ve addressed potential problems with your new partner before tying the knot.

• Money – Many marriages fail due to the stress or arguments surrounding money and finances. It can be a serious pain point that is made worse when partners aren’t on the same page. A loss of income, excessive spending, financial secretiveness or other behaviors that create stress about money (or lack thereof) can quickly crumble a marriage.
• Differing values – Couples need to have similar values. While many believe opposites attract, that attraction may not be enough to save a marriage when values differ too much. Key values include how to raise children, attitudes toward money and success, religion, education and more. While some couples can make it work with differing values, many cannot. It is essential to discuss as many values as possible before marriage.
• No connection – If you don’t take the time to nurture your relationship, chances are you may be heading toward divorce. Going out with friends, pursuing your hobbies and spending excessive amounts of time away from home can drive a wedge between spouses. No one said marriage was easy, so make sure you have a partner you connect with and enjoy being around.

Differences when you remarry after divorce

Many things are different after a first marriage. If you have kids, it can make finding the time to date a little more challenging. Many parents wait to make sure a relationship is going somewhere before bringing the kids into it.

How you approach a second marriage may differ, too. For example, you may decide that conversations about money, values and relationship effort need to take place before committing to a serious relationship. You may also want to safeguard yourself. Some ways you can do that include:

• Prenuptial agreement. Protect your assets and children by openly talking about money. Work with an attorney to create a clear prenup to protect both of you, in case you need it.
• Spell things out clearly. If you believe that couples should share chores, make it well known ahead of time. The same goes for your opinions on how to share responsibility for raising kids, preparing meals, taking care of the bills and so on.
• Take your time. Don’t jump into a marriage right away. Instead, take the time to ask questions and discover if this partnership is right for you.

Talk to an attorney if you plan to remarry after divorce

If you plan to remarry after divorce, make sure to work with the professionals at Best Legal Choices to help prepare your family for the next chapter in your lives. Contact us today to learn more about considerations before you remarry after a divorce.