Can't Afford A Divorce? Here's What You Should Do

Law Blog

It's a shame when people decide to stay together solely because they can't afford to get divorced. But, there are ways around this outcome in many cases. Here are some things to consider.

Get a Better Picture of Your Finances

Your first stop should be a financial planner. They are going to help you put together a picture of your finances and devise a plan for making it work. It may require a little bit of adjustment at first, but the goal will be to create a several-year plan to get you to a comfortable standard of living with what assets you have after the divorce.

Talk to a Divorce Lawyer

You should also talk to a qualified divorce lawyer to see how your assets would likely be split in a divorce and whether there would be continuing alimony payments. Often, when someone stays in a marriage for financial reasons, that spouse is the lower earner in the marriage. That person will usually receive some alimony payments that make their standard of living a little bit more equal to their spouse's after the divorce. Consulting a lawyer will give you a bit more of a clear picture in regards to what your finances would look like after a divorce. Maybe it won't be as bad as you think.

Consider Other Sources of Income

You could also take time, from inside the marriage, to boost your own earning potential. Whether you decide to take some professional development classes or devote more of your free time to your own career, there are steps that will line you up for a better financial future. You don't have to be divorced yet to start remaking your future.

Think About Separation

In cases where you really can't get divorced, either for family reasons or for the money, perhaps it's time to at least discuss with your spouse that you aren't happy continuing on in the relationship. There are ways to give yourself more space within the marriage, while still tending to practical matters. Maybe a separation could be a good idea. But if you don't want to do that, even discussing the idea of getting separate bedrooms, or seeing other people, could be a step you want to take. The short story is that there are many nuances of marriage and divorce; it's worth thinking about possible ways to make yourself happier.

For more information, contact local professionals like those found at Finocchio & English.

29 August 2017