How Can I Protect Myself During Divorce as a Stay-at-Home Parent?

 Posted on April 26, 2023 in Divorce

Ending a marriage can be challenging for anyone, but the divorce process can be particularly tough for stay-at-home parents. If you have been out of the workforce for some time, you may be unsure about your financial stability, and whether you will have enough money to cover your ongoing expenses. If your spouse has been the one to handle your family's finances, you may be uncertain about the amount of income that is coming in or the extent of the assets you own. You may also be concerned about whether you will be able to continue staying at home to care for your children, or whether you will need to find a job. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to protect your rights and safeguard yourself and your children.

1. Gather Financial Documentation

During your divorce, it is essential to have an understanding of your family's finances. You will want to determine how much income is being earned from all sources, and you will also need to understand the assets you and your spouse own, and the debts you owe. As you prepare for your divorce, you can obtain relevant financial documents and information, including bank statements, tax returns, investment statements, credit card bills, and documentation related to assets such as your home and vehicles. This information can be crucial when addressing issues related to property division and financial support. Make sure to keep documents in a safe and secure place where they will not be lost or destroyed.

2. Consider Your Employment Prospects

If you have been out of the workforce for a while, it may be challenging to re-enter the job market after your divorce. You may qualify for spousal support during and after your divorce, which will require your spouse to make ongoing payments to help ensure that you can maintain your standard of living and meet your ongoing needs. However, you may also want to look at what opportunities may be available, and whether returning to work on a part-time or full-time basis may be necessary. Spousal support may also allow you to pursue education or training that will allow you to improve your income-earning capacity and ensure that you will be able to fully support yourself in the future.

3. Focus on Your Children's Needs

Divorce can be a traumatic experience for children, and they may be unsure about how their lives will change after you have separated from your spouse. If you have been a stay-at-home parent, both you and your children may be concerned about whether you will be able to continue to provide the ongoing care they need on a daily basis. It is essential to prioritize your children's needs during this challenging time and provide them with emotional support and guidance. Make sure to communicate openly and honestly with them about what is happening and reassure them that they are loved and cared for. You may also want to consider obtaining the help of a therapist or counselor, who can provide your children with a safe space to talk about their feelings and concerns.

4. Stay Focused on the Big Picture

Even though your divorce may seem overwhelming and stressful, it can be beneficial to try to focus on the long-term goals you have for yourself and your family. Remember that this challenging time will eventually pass, and you have the strength and resilience to overcome it. Stay positive, stay focused, and stay committed to your goals.

5. Consult with a Top-Quality Hillside Divorce Lawyer

As you prepare for a divorce as a stay-at-home parent, it is crucial to have a skilled family law attorney on your side. At Law Office of Vincent C. Machroli, P.C., our Oak Park divorce attorney can act as your advocate and guide you through the legal process of dissolving your marriage. We have 36 years of experience dealing with cases involving stay-at-home parents, and we can address any and all financial concerns related to the division of property and ongoing support, as well as decisions about parental responsibilities. We can work with you to develop a strategy for protecting your interests and resolving disputes effectively. To get the legal help you need, contact us at 708-449-7404 and set up your free consultation.

Sources:

https://divorceandyourmoney.com/blogs/stay-at-home-mom-divorce/

https://www.wealthysinglemommy.com/stay-at-home-mom-divorce/

https://www.motheruntitled.com/blog/2022/10/17/surviving-divorce-as-a-sahm