When you are forced to come to terms with the unfortunate fact that your marriage is over, you will have to confront some harsh truths about your relationship and what led you to this moment. Getting divorced can be one of the most emotionally devastating events of your life, especially if you have to deal with custody arrangements and financial hardships. You may not want to involve your kids, but it may be unavoidable. A Springfield divorce lawyer can help you.
Navigating your divorce as a parent won’t be easy. There are additional concerns to address that you wouldn’t find in a childless divorce. Above all, you want to make sure you are doing the right thing for your family. Generally, marriages that end in divorce have endured some kind of damage or problem. Marriages that end in divorce are often laden with resentment, pain, anger, and regret. Even uncontested divorces are the result of a marriage that didn’t last.
Preparing for Divorce as a Parent
According to information collected by the CDC, the divorce rate in Missouri is among the highest in the country, with a rate of 2.7 per 1,000 residents in 2022. Similarly, the marriage rate in the state just a year later was around 5.8 per 1,000 residents, according to data gathered by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. Getting divorced can be an emotional rollercoaster. You should consider speaking with a local support group like Divorce Recovery.
There are many different things you can do to start preparing for divorce as a parent. You may have to get yourself in a completely different mindset that prioritizes your kids and doesn’t alienate the other parent against them. That can be easier said than done, especially if your ex is being particularly spiteful during the divorce. It begins with accepting the end of your marriage, which can be the hardest part for some people. Then, you should speak with your kids.
When you talk to your kids about the divorce, you will have to broach topics that may be difficult to talk about. Your kids may no longer be living with you full-time, and they may have to change schools. Life changes are about to affect your family, and it’s important that you address those changes as quickly and smoothly as you can. Here are some things you can do to better prepare for your divorce as a parent:
- Make sure you gather all the important records for yourself and your kids. These can include Social Security cards, birth certificates, school records, financials, and various important documents you may need at some point. Your divorce could potentially get delayed due to insufficient documentation.
- You should see a divorce lawyer as soon as possible. Once you learn your marriage is ending, regardless of who may be at fault, you should consult with a lawyer to find out what your options are. Every state has its own unique approach to divorce, and Missouri is no exception. You need to make sure you fulfill all the necessary requirements to get a divorce in Missouri. A good lawyer can help you with that.
- Once your divorce is ultimately finalized, you will have to consider what comes next. Moving forward may not be easy, especially if you are sharing joint custody and are, therefore, required to see your spouse during drop-offs. Resentment won’t disappear overnight, but you must try your hardest to remain civil for your kids, especially while they are present.
Seek support from family and friends, and do what you can to be there emotionally for your kids. Divorce is a complicated and emotionally draining matter, and it’s important to accept support in return.
FAQs
Q: How Does a Divorce Lawyer Help?
A: A divorce lawyer can help in many different ways. You may not be in a healthy mindset throughout this process, depending on what led to the divorce. You may be having difficulties controlling your emotions. This makes you vulnerable to your spouse’s legal team, who may be seeking to take advantage of your position. The right lawyer can prevent that from happening by taking control of your case.
Q: How Are Assets Divided in Missouri?
A: Assets in a Missouri divorce are divided in accordance with the equitable distribution model. This model is the standard for asset division in several states. It ensures both spouses are given a fair split of the marital assets in accordance with their financial needs and financial contributions to the marriage. Fair and equal are not synonymous in this model. The court will consider many different factors to reach what it feels is a fair split.
Q: Which Parent Gets Custody in a Divorce in Missouri?
A: There is no telling which parent gets custody in a divorce in Missouri. Neither parent is granted automatic custody. The court views mothers and fathers as equal parents with equal rights. They will look into the parenting situation at hand to determine which parent should get full custody. The court must always act in the child’s best interests, and that may include ignoring your custody request in favor of the court’s own custody demand.
Q: Is Divorce Worth It?
A: Only you can answer that question, as you are the one getting divorced. A divorce is not something that should be entered into lightly. It’s often the inevitable conclusion to years of resentment, betrayal, and mistrust. You know where your line is. If your spouse crosses it, it’s not unreasonable to want a divorce. You must consider your long-term happiness, as well as what’s going to be good for your kids.
Reach Out to a Divorce Lawyer Today
The legal team at Stange Law Firm understands how difficult it can be to move forward with a divorce, especially when there are kids involved. We can assist you in building your case, gathering evidence if needed, and representing your interests. Contact us to speak to a member of our team about how we can help your case.
