We're Divorce Lawyers. These Are The 6 Qualities We Look For In A Romantic Partner.

Given their line of work, divorce attorneys have a unique view on relationships.

They may not be couples therapists, but they’ve certainly gotten an up-close-and-personal-look at marriage, observing what makes them work and what makes them fall apart.

To that end, we asked divorce lawyers to share the top qualities they look for in a romantic partner based on their years of professional (and personal) experience. Below, they explain what they value most in a significant other and why.

1. Honesty and integrity

“Honest and authenticity are the building blocks of trust, which is the foundation of any great relationship. Honesty is key to building true intimacy, fidelity and commitment. Even half-truths count as a whole lie in my book. It’s important for a person to take responsibility for their mental health to heal past wounds, know who they are and convey that truth fully in the relationship. As my Daddy always said, ‘Don’t pretend to be who you don’t intend to be.’” —Lauren Lake, family attorney and judge on “Lauren Lake’s Paternity Court”

“I need to know that my partner will do what he says he’s going to do. Otherwise there won’t be any trust in the relationship and eventually it will fall apart.” — Karen Covy, divorce coach and lawyer

2. They treat me like an equal partner

“I shouldn’t have to make excuses to others about how my partner treats me. I see so many people come in who have been mistreated in their marriage with an unequal balance in their relationship. They nonetheless make excuses about either why they deserved to be treated that way or why their spouse had a difficult life, which somehow made it OK to mistreat them. I would also look for someone who is kind.” — Carla S. Donnelly , family law