• 02
  • November
    2011

The band Death Cab for Cutie likely has plenty of fans in Denver. Likewise, many Mile High City residents have probably checked out the new show "New Girl" on Fox. Therefore, there might be some sadness over the news that the stars of those projects -- Ben Gibbard and Zooey Deschanel, respectively -- have announced that they are separating after two years of marriage.

However, some of that sadness might be misplaced. It is true that divorce is never a fun process, but in many cases, separation is simply the best option for the couple. Based on what Gibbard and Deschanel have said publicly thus far, it seems their split has been amicable, indicating that they might be one of those couples for whom divorce was the right decision.

While tabloids are not reliable sources, the magazine US Weekly is saying that their decision to divorce was mutual and that they are still on friendly terms. It also reported that there was no third party involved (which, given that tabloids sell copies by coming up with the most salacious stories possible, lends credibility to the idea that the divorce is going smoothly).

Residents of Denver should look at this separation and realize that divorce does not have to be a contentious, drawn-out process. If both people are willing to act like adults, it can be rational, fair and comparatively painless. One good way to make sure that the divorce process unfolds smoothly is to work with an attorney who has experience helping couples divorce. Such a lawyer will likely be able to listen to what you hope to achieve and help you work towards that goal.

Source: CNN, "Zooey Deschanel and husband Ben Gibbard split," Nov. 2, 2011