Cupid's Pulse Article: ‘Gossip Girl’ Star Kelly Rutherford Gets a Court Date for Marital BattlesCupid's Pulse Article: ‘Gossip Girl’ Star Kelly Rutherford Gets a Court Date for Marital Battles

It looks like another long celebrity breakup is finally winding down. Two years after their split in 2010, Gossip Girl’s Kelly Rutherford and ex-husband Daniel Giersch have set a court date for July 12 in order to finalize their divorce. E! Online reports that the major issue of this trial is custody of their two children. Though the two had previously decided on joint custody, Rutherford later issued a restraining order against Giersch after claiming he threatened her nanny and affected her parenting.

What are some ways to solve relationship issues out of court?

Cupid’s Advice:

Even the best relationships have their occasional problems. The difference between successful relationships and unsuccessful ones is how these issues are handled. Before spending time, money and energy to find solutions in court, consider the following tips:

1. Talk to your partner: Communication is the simplest way to solve relationship problems. If you talk to your partner and address your issues early on, they won’t grow  into the sort of major disputes that need to be handled in court. Plus, building openness in your relationship will help prevent new problems from developing.

2. Go to counseling: Before taking legal action, consider talking to a marriage counselor or going to couples therapy. Getting an expert’s opinion can give you the answers you need to bring the romance back. Even better, it can give you a sense of where your relationship should be headed.

3. Bring in a third party:  If you’re unwilling to take your relationship to counseling, try starting by talking to a close friend. Find a person who’s willing to listen and consider both sides of your issues and have them help you find a solution. Even if you can’t come up with an answer, you’ll feel better knowing your problems have been shared.

How do you handle relationship problems? Tell us below!