“Smash” Star Debra Messing, Husband to Divorce

Lots of us here in Tucson probably recall the successful sitcom “Will and Grace.” A big part of that show centered on how Grace had trouble finding a lasting relationship.

Unfortunately, it seems that Debra Messing, the actress who played Grace, has not had an easier time of it, and the real-life results are not as comedic — she recently filed for divorce from her husband of 12 years.

Now, we say “unfortunately” only because people deserve to find lasting love and fulfillment. A divorce in and of itself is not always a sad occasion because sometimes, it is really the best thing for both people. If a marriage isn’t working, shouldn’t you be free to find a relationship that does work? And as Messing’s case shows, divorce isn’t always hard, sad and expensive. It’s entirely possible to divorce in a manner that is grown-up, civil and respectful to both parties.

From what we know so far, it sounds like Messing and her husband separated in February 2010 and both are now seeking joint legal decision-making authority of the 8-year-old son they have together. If they are fighting with each other or arguing about how to divide their property, the tabloids haven’t caught wind of it.

If your goal is to separate in such an amicable manner, let your attorney know what you want so that he or she can work to give it to you. It is true that tempers sometimes flare in divorce, but an attorney who is committed to your goals will do the best he or she can to make sure nothing boils over.