No two divorces are exactly the same. Every couple’s circumstances are different. While many divorces are settled relatively smoothly, others can be more complex.
Recognizing some of the most common factors that can complicate divorce could help with your preparation. Outlined below are two things to consider.
Child custody
When children are involved, divorce becomes more complex. For parents and the courts, the best interests of the child will be the top priority. However, this can be complex because all parties may not agree exactly on what is in the best interests of the child.
Deciding on custody arrangements can be even more complex when one parent lives in another state or outside the country. A custody agreement will have to be drawn up that allows the “long-distance” parent visitation rights but also provides stability for the child.
Hidden assets
Property division is another key aspect of divorce. Ideally, spouses have prenuptial or postnuptial agreements in place that outline how property should be distributed. If they don’t and they can’t negotiate a property division agreement the court may have to step in and distribute marital property equitably.
Property division can only be fair if both spouses are honest about their assets and finances. It is not uncommon for one spouse to hide assets in an attempt to keep them post-divorce. It’s not just multi-millionaires who hide assets. Anyone can potentially try to do it. Finding hidden assets can complicate and lengthen the divorce process significantly.
The more prepared you are for divorce proceedings, the more smoothly they are likely to go. One of the first steps you should take is to seek as much legal information as possible.
