When a couple in Florida decides to get divorced, it can be a difficult decision for both parties. However, if you’re a stay-at-home parent, divorce can be an even more complicated process. You have to understand your rights and what you’re entitled to if you want to achieve the most desirable outcome.
Consider mediation
First of all, you and your spouse should try mediation before going to court. This will save you a lot of money in legal fees, and it will also help keep the divorce process as amicable as possible. You’ll likely be able to work out a parenting plan that works for both of you, and you may be able to communicate more effectively if you’re able to resolve things yourselves.
Understand alimony and child support
If you’re not the primary breadwinner in your family, you’ll likely be entitled to alimony and/or child support. Alimony is a monthly payment that one spouse makes to the other, and it’s designed to help maintain the recipient’s standard of living after divorce. Child support is money that one parent pays to the other to help cover the costs of raising their children.
Be sure to understand how these payments are typically calculated, and make sure you get as much money as you’re entitled to. You don’t want to struggle after divorce.
Know your rights when it comes to property division
In Florida, marital property is typically divided evenly between divorcing spouses. However, there are exceptions to this rule. If you have a prenuptial agreement, for example, the terms of that agreement will likely dictate how your property gets divided.
If you don’t have a prenuptial agreement, be sure to understand Florida’s laws on equitable distribution. This will help you know what to expect when it comes time to divide up your property.
Divorce is never easy, but it can be especially difficult for stay-at-home parents, especially those whose spouses are the primary earner. In this position, you may be concerned about what will happen to you after the divorce. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to protect yourself.