New Bill Could Make Divorce Even Harder

Breaking up "is hard to do", but it’s about to becoming even more difficult if a bill in play at the Utah Legislature goes through.

A measure on ‘Mandatory Divorce Orientation' classes advanced today in the Legislature.

If the bill passed, it would make it so couples would be required to do two things first.

First, a spouse would have to complete a state-approved ‘Divorce Orientation Course' before filing for divorce.

Second, no waivers of a 90-day divorce waiting period, for couples who take the class.

Rep. Jim Nielson says Utah has not cornered the market on family values.

"But I think we take ideas about families, and about public policy as it affects families, we take it very seriously here,” he said.

Before filing for divorce, a person would get options on divorce alternatives, resources on improving marriage, and the consequences of a split.

But divorce lawyer Eric Johnson is no fan of divorce orientation class.

"People getting divorced have to struggle enough with that decision not to be told it's hard,” Johnson said.

But in testimony this week at the Utah State Capitol, Brigham Young University professor Alan Hawkins said it’s still worth the effort.

"I am convinced that there is a small but important number of divorcing couples – perhaps 10% - that are prime candidates for potential reconciliation," he said.

 

What are your thoughts?  Should couples have to attend a divorce orientation course?  I would love to hear your thoughts!  

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