Divorce can feel impossible for stay-at-home moms. It is hard to imagine having to figure out life after divorce when all you’ve ever known was staying home and caring for your children. Financial considerations can seem daunting. That’s why stay-at-home moms are in a special situation, so one must understand their legal rights.
In your jurisdiction, it is necessary to understand your rights regarding child custody, spousal support, division of assets, and property laws. A family law attorney can be a guide to helping you understand your legal rights. Your household and family contributions mean something. Being a stay-at-home mom is a full-time job, so protecting yourself and your family is a priority.
Gather Financial Information
You must gather all necessary financial information surrounding shared accounts to sustain stability for you and your family. Opening your independent bank accounts is helpful as soon as the separation occurs. Negotiating financial support from your soon-to-be ex can be a possibility. If you’re the main caretaker for the children, it is only fair that you receive financial assistance.
Family law attorneys, especially those with extra experience with stay-at-home moms, can support you when obtaining account statements, tax returns, property records, and all other proper documentation. Keeping a record of your family’s financial situation will assist you throughout your divorce.
Determine Living Arrangements and Custody
Negotiating living and custody arrangements is difficult. The status of you and your spouse can affect how the negotiation can go. This is an important area for you to receive legal assistance. Mediation or a collaborative divorce approach is a good way to avoid conflict while discussing living arrangements and custody. Discuss openly about living situation changes with your children. Devising a proper co-parenting plan can bring ease to you and your family.
Re-entering the Workforce
Re-entering the workforce after taking care of children for years is intimidating, but you need to try and get on your feet quickly. If you feel your marriage is soon ending, it is not a bad idea to start looking into part-time jobs. Starting with a lower job position is okay. Don’t expect to find a high-demand and high-paying job right away, and this type of job might be too much to start during a divorce. Any job experience is a good way to start accumulating experience for you and your resume. Creating a resume and cover letter, setting up interviews, and talking with hiring people are some ways to prepare to become financially independent.
When you find the right job, you can start to create a budget. Budgeting can help you plan for an independent lifestyle. If you share insurance with your spouse, looking for a job with insurance and benefits can be supportive too.
Self-Care and Support
Seek emotional support from friends, family, and professionals. Doing this alone isn’t the best option for you and your family. You will need guidance when things get hard. Building a strong support system will be an enormous help to your well-being. There are resources and support groups for mothers dealing with the same thing. For some moms, connecting with people experiencing a similar situation can help.
You should take care of yourself even when things get hard. Your decision-making skills and healing process will be challenging when you do not care for yourself. Taking care of your well-being will be crucial if you want what is best for your family.
Conclusion
Divorce will be a life-changing moment for you and your family. Going about the logistics of it all is scary, but there are ways to ensure you and your family remain connected and happy. Seeking a family law attorney will help you achieve a happy life for you and your family.
