If you are going through a divorce, you have a lot on your plate, and considering your post-divorce priorities may seem like a luxury that you simply cannot afford. The fact is, however, that identifying these priorities can serve as a very useful roadmap that guides you forward toward a divorce that protects your best interests and works for you.
Your Divorce
No two divorces are exactly alike, and everyone's post-divorce priorities are different. It is important to recognize that divorce is all about making compromises in an effort to come away with terms that you can both agree to sign off on. If everything you hope to achieve is weighted equally, you are likely to be very disappointed by the outcome of your divorce. If, on the other hand, your post-divorce priorities are clear to you, it can help you move forward with purpose by focusing on what matters most and by loosening your grip on other issues.
Questions to Ask Yourself
There are some basic questions to ask yourself regarding your post-divorce life that can help you obtain a better understanding of your priorities, including:
- What Are My Child-Custody Goals? If your goal is to become the primary custodial parent with whom your children primarily live, this is very likely your top priority. This should guide your divorce strategizing. If you also plan on staying in the family home with your children, this adds an additional layer to that strategizing.
- How Will I Find a Job? If you were a stay-at-home parent, you are likely very concerned about how you will support yourself and your children post-divorce. The fact is that finding a job can be difficult after being out of the workforce for a considerable length of time, and the court understands this. You may be awarded spousal maintenance until you can find your financial footing, but prioritizing finding a job that works with your post-divorce life is critical.
- What Will My Income Needs Be? Your post-divorce finances are almost certainly not going to reach the level that you enjoyed when you were married. The fact is that it is more expensive to maintain two households than it is to maintain one, and this fact plays an important role. Determining how you can scale back and still live a comfortable lifestyle that you and your children can fully embrace is key. If you hope to stay in your family home but fear it is not financially possible, there could be a viable option that you have not even considered – discuss the matter with your experienced family law attorney.
An Experienced Attorney Can Help
Going through a divorce is difficult, but when you have your post-divorce priorities straight, it can help you move forward with confidence and purpose. Brett Pritchard at The Law Office of Brett H. Pritchard in Killeen, Texas, is a dedicated family law attorney who is committed to helping you obtain terms that support your goals. We are on your side, so please contact or call us at 254-501-4040 for more information today.