If you are going through divorce and are worried about how much it will cost you, then reach out to me, a trusted O’Fallon, IL affordable divorce lawyer. At a time like this, you may be feeling overwhelmed about the future and your finances. While no one expects to get divorced later in life, it does happen. No two cases are exactly alike, as an attorney experienced in handling divorces for the last 20 years, I understand that. Here are some tips to consider amidst the divorce process. Once you and your soon-to-be-ex have reached agreement, please contact me, Amanda Bradley at Flat Fee Divorce Solutions.
Get Organized
The more organized you are during the divorce, the more money you can save. Gather important documents such as bank statements, tax returns, investment statements, check registers, employee benefits handbooks, retirement account statements, mortgage documents, life insurance policies, credit card statements, stock grants, social security statements, property titles, and anything else relevant. Make printed copies of useful financial documents that may be currently stored on your computer.
Prioritize Your Children
If you have shared children together, then they will be impacted by the change as well. When you tell them, consider doing it as a team. Spending time with your kids and focusing on their wellbeing can reduce the ache of divorce on your life and theirs. If you have an amicable relationship with the other parent, perhaps you can create a parenting schedule that works for you both. But do not involve the kids or ask them to take sides as you negotiate. This will only lead to more emotional problems for them.
Hire A Lawyer
Rarely does anyone enter a marriage thinking that it will result in divorce later on. While your sense of self may be flooded with heartache, anger, resentment, and other difficult feelings, don’t forget that there are reliable professionals out there who can offer support. As an Illinois affordable divorce lawyer, I can understand the grief you may be going through. Or maybe you are relieved that divorce is happening. Either way, by hiring me, Amanda Bradley, you will have a compassionate professional working for you who can watch out for your interests as you create a new path forward.
Flat Fee Divorce Solutions
Flat Fee Divorce Solutions has helped many people get through divorce. I am fully aware of the stress and financial burden that my clients endure from this significant life change. I strive to offer support, dependable legal guidance, and all at a price that is affordable. Divorce is known to be expensive. With my assistance, you won’t have to go through this process alone. Whether divorce is already unfolding, or you feel like it’s on the horizon, please call, contact me or use the CatBot so I can help. I hope to speak with you about the divorce process and how to protect yourself during this difficult period.
Determining Maintenance or Spousal Support In Your Affordable Divorce
As a trusted O’Fallon, IL affordable divorce lawyer, I recognize the complexity and emotional turmoil that couples often face. Among the critical issues that require resolution during divorce proceedings is spousal support, commonly known as alimony. Spousal support holds significant importance in Illinois divorces, as it can significantly impact the financial stability of both parties involved.
Understanding Maintenance or Spousal Support In Illinois
Spousal support, also referred to as maintenance or alimony, represents a financial arrangement in which one spouse may be required to provide financial support to the other after the dissolution of their marriage. The primary objective of maintenance is to ensure that both spouses can maintain a reasonably comparable standard of living post-divorce, particularly when one spouse may have been financially dependent during the marriage.
Factors That Influence Maintenance or Spousal Support
In Illinois, the determination of maintenance or spousal support is a nuanced process that involves a thorough evaluation of various factors to arrive at a fair and equitable decision. Some of the pivotal factors considered include:
Income And Earning Capacity
Courts meticulously assess each spouse’s existing income, earning potential, and future income prospects. If there’s a substantial income disparity, the court may order spousal support to bridge the gap.
Duration Of The Marriage
The length of the marriage significantly impacts maintenance, alimony or spousal support. Longer marriages may result in more extended or even permanent spousal support arrangements. The court takes into account the standard of living established during the marriage, striving to ensure that both parties can maintain a similar lifestyle post-divorce.
Financial Needs And Obligations
The financial requirements of each spouse, including debts and obligations, are carefully examined. This includes factoring in child support and other financial responsibilities. Further, the age and health of each spouse are key considerations when determining spousal support. Health issues or approaching retirement age may influence the duration and amount of support awarded.
Types Of Spousal Support In Illinois
Illinois provides various forms of maintenance, alimony or spousal support, with the type depending on the specifics of the divorce. For example, temporary support is awarded during the divorce proceedings to maintain financial stability for both parties until a final resolution is reached, while rehabilitative support is intended to assist the recipient spouse in achieving financial independence through education, training, or gaining work experience. Permanent support can be granted if the marriage lasted more than 20 years and when the recipient spouse is incapable of achieving financial independence due to factors such as age, health, or other compelling reasons.
Learning How I Can Assist You
Should you find yourself in the midst of an Illinois divorce and require assistance with spousal support or any other aspect of your case, I urge you to reach out to Flat Fee Divorce Solutions today. As a seasoned attorney, I am here to offer personalized legal guidance and help you secure a just and equitable resolution. Allow me to be your trusted partner during this challenging time. Call today to schedule a consultation with me, an O’Fallon affordable divorce lawyer, for help.