Our exploration of fault versus no-fault divorce reveals surprising historical twists and powerful stakes for modern families. Did you know Ronald Reagan—yes, that Ronald Reagan—signed America's first no-fault divorce law? Before that watershed moment, couples resorted to hiring private detectives and staging hotel room encounters just to escape unhappy marriages.

Today, conservative voices like JD Vance advocate returning to fault-based divorce, arguing no-fault made ending marriages too easy. But what's really behind this push? As we unpack the complex history of divorce law reform, we explore whether making divorce harder actually creates healthier marriages or simply traps people in unhappy ones.

The conversation takes fascinating turns through domestic violence statutes, covenant marriages, and the concerning trend of weaponizing abuse allegations for financial advantage. We consider thought-provoking questions: Does fault-based divorce protect families or amplify conflict? How does assigning blame affect children caught in the middle? And ultimately, shouldn't we focus on creating healthy marriages rather than simply preventing their dissolution?

Our candid discussion reveals how divorce laws reflect deeper cultural values about gender, family, and personal freedom. Whether you're navigating your own relationship challenges or simply interested in how policy shapes our most intimate decisions, this episode offers valuable perspective on what genuinely helps families thrive rather than merely stay together.

Share your thoughts with us on this controversial topic! We're genuinely interested in hearing different perspectives as we continue exploring the complex intersection of money, psychology, and law in divorce.

The Three Wisemen of Divorce are divorce experts Mark C. Hill, CFP®, CDFA®, Financial Divorce Consultant; Peter Roussos, MA, MFT, CST, psychotherapist; and Shawn Weber, CLS-F*, Family Law Mediator and Divorce Attorney.