Divorce is a time of emotional and mental anguish for most couples and their families. It marks the end an era. In most cases, the end of a family unit. Even though this is an emotional time for you, a divorce is similar to a business transaction. If you have children, depending on their age the terms of the divorce will affect you for years into the future.
When it comes to legal divorce, there will be a division of money, assets, responsibilities and more. While the division isn’t always equal, each spouse will get something, since everything is no longer shared. Take a look at the common methods for making divisions during divorce and the best ways to go about it.
Child Custody
Child custody has a major impact on the division of marital assets. If you own a home, then the custodial parent generally gets possession of the house.
Generally, this is because it benefits the children to have as much stability as possible in their lives. By staying in their home, the children can continue to attend the same schools, keep their friends and maintain much of the same routine.
Parents must reach an agreement on how to share the joy of raising their kids. Parents that live near each other might prefer shared custody such as spending alternate weeks with mom or dad.
If you prefer that one of you have primary custody, then be perfectly clear on all rights regarding visitation. Include them as part of the divorce decree to make them legally binding.
Child Support
Child support includes much more than feeding and clothing your little ones. According to professionals at the Blumenauer Hackworth law firm who specialize in family law, you should look forward to the child’s future needs and include them as part of the divorce paperwork.
For example, they might need daycare, orthodontics or a college education. An attorney specializing in family law is experienced in these matters, and can draft an equitable child support agreement.
Alimony
Alimony is generally restricted to non-working spouses without current job skills and only for a specified period. The non-working spouse will need to choose a career, research the cost of education and the length of time until they would be working in the field. This information is submitted to the judge for his or her approval.
Indebtedness
Countless divorces are caused by arguments over money. Sort through your debts to decide which ones you will pay.
If you live in a community property state, then you are legally responsible for all debts, even those your spouse incurred and of which you have no knowledge.
The best way to protect your rights during a divorce is to hire a lawyer specializing in this field of law. They can guide you through a difficult process when you might not be thinking clearly.
A lawyer’s knowledge and experience are invaluable when drafting the specifics of a divorce decree. While it is painful and messy to divide a couple lifestyle into two separate lives, once the paperwork is complete and the divorce is final, everyone can start to move on.
The divorce rate of blended family marriages is almost 70%. It’s possible to beat the odds and avoid becoming another statistic read how to divorce proof your marriage.
