Divorcing as a stay-at-home mom can be a daunting proposition as you probably fear the worst, especially when you are financially dependent on your spouse. If you have spent years working to raise your family, counting on your spouse for financial support, the thought of divorce can seem unfathomable. Yet, if this is what you need to live a better, happier, healthier life, it is important to realize that you are not stuck and that you have options.
At the Law Office of Afsana Chowdhury, PLC, we recognize just how complex and challenging this situation is. Our divorce attorney in Fairfax, Virginia, will work closely with you to talk about your options, what to expect, and how you can get started on your future. We help clients throughout Northern Virginia through the entire divorce process.
Facing divorce as a stay-at-home parent means considering a whole new way of life. Your situation is unique, though, and that’s why having an attorney who can guide and support you through the process is so critical. Reach out to us today, so we can be there for you.
How to Prepare for Divorce as a Stay-at-Home Mom
Obtaining a divorce as a stay-at-home mom can feel scary but it’s not uncommon. Our legal team can help you to navigate this process. The first step is to realize that if you want to do more with your life or wish for a change, you shouldn’t limit yourself simply because you have been a stay-at-home parent.
There are several things you can do to prepare yourself for a divorce as a stay-at-home parent:
- Consider your financial situation. What type of income can you expect to have after divorce from your own earnings? Create a budget of what you may need to have coming in to meet your financial goals.
- Gather your resume. If you plan to go back to work, take some time now to update your resume, build up your LinkedIn profile, and explore your options for additional coursework, if necessary. You want to be ready for your future.
- Talk to an attorney. Discuss your needs with your divorce attorney in Virginia. Allow our legal team to offer insight into what you can expect with regard to child custody, child support, and spousal support, and division of assets.
- Work through the emotional aspects. Though not legally focused, it is important for many people to work through the emotional changes and complications that come from the divorce process.
- Consider the help available to you. Do you have family and friends that can offer help while you work to rebuild your life? Define what type of help you may need.
At the Law Office of Afsana Chowdhury, PLC, our team will work closely with you to help you plan for divorce. Every situation is unique. That’s why having a skilled and experienced divorce attorney in Fairfax, VA, to guide you is so critical.
What If I am a Stay-At-Home Mom and Scared to Divorce?
As a stay-at-home mom, divorce is an option in nearly every situation. You should not try to remain in a marriage that is abusive in any way just because you are not working or have not worked in a long time. It is the biggest mistake you can make for yourself and your children.
Yet, it is an understandable concern. Many people find themselves dependent on their spouse for everything from money to health insurance. In situations where a child has special needs, it may feel even more difficult to consider leaving the marriage. Many people are afraid of divorce even if they are not in an abusive relationship. Don’t let that fear stop you from making the changes you need for your life and that of your family.
The Financial Aspects of Divorce
In many situations, the fear of divorce comes from the financial worries related to the process. You may have no idea how you will have enough money to pay for a place to live, keep the family fed, or maintain the current quality of life they are used to. There are a few things to consider here.
- Child Support May Be Available: If the other spouse is the breadwinner for the home, you may be able to obtain child support to help you cover the costs of raising your children together.
- Alimony Support Could Be Available: Some situations allow for alimony to be awarded to the stay-at-home parent. This could be long-term or for a period of time while you work to build your income.
- Divorce Costs: Even if you think you don’t have the money to pay for an attorney, your spouse may be required, as a component of the divorce, to cover those costs.
Other resources may be available to you. At the Law Office of Afsana Chowdhury, PLC, our divorce attorney in Fairfax, VA, can help you to navigate your options in these situations.
The Rights of a Stay-at-Home Mom in Divorce
For a stay-at-home mom, divorce can seem like an uphill battle, one that your friends and even family have warned you about not pursuing. Yet, you have the right–and the obligation to yourself–to pursue a divorce in many situations and only you can decide what is best for you.
Just because you did not work and contribute financially during the marriage does not mean you are unable to receive property from the division. Being a stay-at-home mom does not stop you from being awarded a fair division of the assets during the divorce. This even includes property that you did not contribute to financially.
The court considers your contributions to the marriage beyond just financials. That is, the time and work you put into managing your family and raising your children matters to the court. The division of assets during the divorce is dependent on what the court believes is a fair division based on your contributions. More so, the court aims to divide assets in a way that’s fair to the future of the family.
Let the Law Office of Afsana Chowdhury, PLC Help You
Divorcing in Virginia as a stay-at-home parent is an option for you. Take the time right now to reach out to our legal team to learn how we can help you. Contact the Law Office of Afsana Chowdhury, PLC, for a consultation to discuss your needs.