In many circumstances, divorce is an important step for couples to make. Choosing to legally split from your partner can be a way to limit stress and find a fresh start. However, in some isolated instances, people make the decision to divorce their spouse, because of suspected criminal activity committed by the other spouse. This decision can prove to be a very wise move.

This was the case for one North Carolina woman, whose husband is now facing charges for violent crimes. According to court records, her husband has been accused of assaulting and murdering someone. Most recently, she made the decision to file for divorce. It's important to note that this is a very rare circumstance, and most divorces occur for very different reasons.

Earlier this month, the woman filed a divorce petition to end a marriage that began in 2009. The couple has no children, which typically makes the divorce process less complicated. According to reports, the woman did not suspect her husband of deviant behavior before charges were filed in 2010. The couple has been separated since that time.

While this particular case is certainly unique and tragic, it does raise some important questions for couples in North Carolina. In the event that a spouse is found guilty of committing a crime of any nature, the other spouse could be held financially responsible for paying any restitution ordered after conviction. This is particularly true if the couple remains married through the duration of the criminal trial.

If, for any reason, you feel as though choosing to divorce your spouse is in your best interests, it would be wise to discuss the legal consequences with an attorney before making a decision. Anyone mulling a divorce under particularly difficult circumstances, such as when a spouse is suspected of a crime, it may be important to act quickly to prevent unforeseen consequences.

Source: WRAL-TV News, "Wife of accused killer in school board slaying files for divorce," Kelly Gardner, May 18, 2012