As a stay-at-home parent, you make many sacrifices for your family. You put your career on hold, instead investing in the future of your children.
Everything changes when your marriage is falling apart and heading for divorce. You need a new strategy that comes as close as possible to maintaining your lifestyle.
Preparing to face the big issues
If you have been out of the job market for any length of time while raising a family, you are less attractive to prospective employers. This is especially true in today’s high-tech economy. As a result, your earning potential will sustain a major hit. You may have to accept a lower-paying job, at least until you establish yourself again.
You can make a good argument for spousal support by making an effort to secure the most favorable job available. Show your goodwill to the court with job descriptions, resumes and cover letters. Courts tend to look well on people doing as much as they can to help themselves.
Be aware that a court may not award you half of your marital assets if you did not provide a financial contribution. This is true when one spouse operates and maintains a business.
Preparing to address the big issues
A postnuptial agreement can help you prepare long before your marriage is in trouble. Some issues to address:
- The division of assets
- Spousal support payments
- Health insurance
- Your right to compile your own nest egg
- Estate planning
A postnup also documents the stay-at-home agreement between you and your spouse. This adds to your legal claim by establishing the value of your contributions to the marriage.
Preparing yourself for the future
Your marriage began with dreams of lifelong happiness. Now you are enduring a nightmare of personal and financial questions.
You can do better than picking up the pieces of your broken life. With a little planning and smart decision-making, you can flourish.
