Getting into a new relationship is always exciting. You’re constantly learning more about the other person as you open yourself up to them as well. As the relationship progresses, it’s important to communicate and set realistic expectations. In the United States, researchers estimate that 40%–50% of all first marriages, and 60% of second marriages, will end in divorce. The dating process can definitely be difficult, so here’s some advice from divorce lawyers and family law attorneys all over the country.

• • Prenup:
    It may seem a bit preemptive to concern yourself with the idea of marriage if you haven’t been together for that long, but it’s never too early to start planning. Ignoring the possibility of divorce does not ensure a happy relationship, so it’s important to sign a prenup. That way, if something does happen, you won’t be stuck abiding by the antiquated divorce laws that were made back in the 70’s.

• • Friends:
    Many family law lawyers underestimate the importance of getting to know your significant other’s friends. If you find that you dislike most of their friends, it can be a big red flag in any relationship. A lot of friend groups have the same personalities and character traits, so if you dislike your significant other’s friends, you may grow to dislike your significant other as well. Don’t be ‘blinded by love.’

• • Expectations:
    Moving in together is a major step as a relationship moves forward. If you decide to move in with your SO, it’s critical to sit down and have a discussion about setting realistic and achievable expectations. This is mostly relevant to household chores, but it can also affect other aspects of your relationship. It’s not at all uncommon for huge fights to arise because of one small chore not being done, one dirty dish in the sink, or one pair of pants that didn’t make it into the laundry basket. People aren’t likely to change their habits, so having this discussion early on can eliminate a lot of confusion down the road.

• Dating:
  In the midst of work, finances, bills, chores, and everything else required for a functioning relationship, going on frequent dates should never be neglected. Countless couples break up simply because they don’t feel the same connection they did when they first started dating. Keep your relationship fresh by getting out of the house with your SO at least once a week. Even if you have children, the cost of a babysitter isn’t quite as much as the financial and emotional costs of divorce.

Ultimately, the most important aspect of any relationship is communication. For more family law advice, contact R and S Law Group.