Divorce does not always have to be dramatic. You hear plenty of stories about spouses who are unfaithful to the marriage, for instance, and that does lead to divorce, but most cases happen for far more “minor” reasons. One of those reasons is simply dishonesty.

In some cases, the spouse who lies does it about something huge and important. Maybe they have a gambling problem and they mortgage the house to pay for it. They lie about where they’re going and how they’re spending money. Eventually, the truth comes out when they lose the house.

However, experts note that “white lies” can also chip away at a marriage. One person may think it’s not a big deal to lie about minor purchases, for example, or to lie and say they have to work late when they want to spend time with friends. They tell these small lies all the time, and they get defensive when they get caught.

While their spouse is probably not going to divorce them after the first one, it takes a toll over time. Eventually, the other person feels like there is just no trust left. What is true? What is a lie? Can they ever trust the other person, or do they have to question every single thing they say — even when they’re being honest? A relationship like that is tough to keep alive and well.

If you and your spouse decide to get divorced, no matter what it is that leads you to that decision, make sure you know how to protect all of your legal rights.