Divorce — A Weighty Issue

Weight is often an issue in divorce. I have had clients who have come to me seeking a divorce from a spouse because the husband or wife was vastly overweight and any physical attraction was long gone. Is that a basis for divorce?

According to the law — including law in Michigan where I practice, which is a no-fault state — any reason can cause a breakdown of the marriage, and weight is clearly a reason for a breakdown in communication.

I’ve had many clients who have met with me and stated that his or her spouse is complaining about his or her spouse’s weight, and then suddenly something happens — I call it the divorce diet. Whether because of stress or other reasons, there is suddenly weight loss. People stop eating. They also often stop sleeping.