Why do Marriages End when Kids Leave Home? Empty Nest Divorces explained by Top Family Law Attorneys Christopher C. Melcher and Peter M. Walzer

[Source: KTLA 5 News]

Why do Marriages End when Kids Leave Home? Empty Nest Divorces explained by Top Family Law Attorneys Christopher C. Melcher and Peter M. Walzer

College classes are underway and many students are moving away from home for the first time ever and that means that many parents are experiencing their first year as an empty nest couple.

And as that might spark more conversations of more travel, hobbies and romantic time together, it can also start the time of getting a divorce. Joining us are top family law attorneys Christopher C. Melcher and Peter M. Walzer partners of Walzer Melcher Family Law in California. You were in the same firm that handled the divorce of Katie Holmes and Tom Cruise and their high profile divorce. This must be a tough job-it breaks up families, which is a tough thing.

“It’s tough work and it’s heartbreaking and heart wrenching when we are participating in this life-changing event for people,” states divorce attorney Peter M. Walzer.

When we talk about empty nesters filing for divorce, what are the top reasons that you found?

“Sometimes kids are the glue that holds the relationship together. When those children go off and fly from the nest, then the reason to stay in the marriage may not be there,” explains high net worth divorce attorney Christopher C. Melcher.

Do you notice more men or more women leading the marriage in this timing when it comes to empty nesters?

“It seems to be women that have more time available. They’ve been generally the primary caretaker for the children. Now they have a lot of free time to wonder why am I not happy?” explains celebrity divorce lawyer Peter M. Walzer.

Which kinds of marriages are the vulnerable ones?

To me, it’s the ones that lost the focus of the couple. They spent so much time raising these children, they lost the connection. They don’t trust each other, they don’t communicate. Those are really the warning signs to be looking out for and listening to what changes are about to happen and supporting the other spouse in a big life event. Anticipating those things can really help save the marriage,” reports top California divorce attorney Christopher C. Melcher.

Is it different when it comes to an empty nesters divorce versus a couple that hasn’t been married as long? Do you notice a difference when it comes to divorce?

“There is a difference because couples whose children are going off to college may have more money and savings and may be able to get a divorce. It’s very expensive to get a divorce. It’s very expensive to have two homes and these couples can do it. So if they are going to stay together, it’s going to be their own will and desire to keep their marriage together,” explains high net worth divorce attorney Peter M. Walzer.

I assume there are some warning signs when people are about to enter this phase of their lives in examing their marriages. What are the warning signs and how can they move their marriage in the right direction?

“The warning signs are when trust and communication are broken down and they are faking it to go through this process. We call it the 25-year itch. What needs to be done is taking the opportunity to focus on the relationship and on the couple again. Using it as a positive experience, rather than as an opportunity to leave the marriage,” states top California divorce attorney Christopher C. Melcher.

Do you find in these cases of empty nest divorces, the train is down the track so far that all is lost or do they recover and come back?

“It many times is too far gone and they need some help or counseling to help them communicate in a constructive way,” replies celebrity divorce attorney Christopher C. Melcher.

Children are usually older at this stage. What do you tell your children?

“Every child is different, of course, but I think it’s important to tell them what to expect. Often they are away in college. They come back and expect to see their room and friends. If it’s all going to change, you need to tell them about it. You need to tell them how much money is going to be available to send them to school. They need to expect something, but should not be brought in the middle of the parent’s dispute,” states top family law attorney Peter M. Walzer.

Tough things to be involved in, but it’s a necessary part of the law.
For more information, visit https://walzermelcher.com.

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