Divorce is a life changing event. It changes everything. Not all of the changes you’re about to experience are easy, fun, or necessarily wanted. But the reality is that change is about to come. You can get prepared for the change, embrace it, and move on. Or, you can believe divorce will not impact your life, and those changes are just for other people. The following is a few of the changes that may be about to come in your life.
LIFESTYLE – Don’t’ let people fool you. It’s a fact that after a divorce your lifestyle will change. You may receive proceeds from your divorce – but will that money last forever? You may receive spousal support, but is it permanent or is there an end date? You’re now living on one income, and whatever other monies you received from your divorce. It’s time to set a new budget, and learn to live within that budget.
EMPLOYMENT –If you’ve been a stay-at-home parent, you’ll need to become financially self-sufficient. Even if there is a large pot of money to divide in your divorce, will it be enough, or will you need to get a job to support yourself? This ties back into the statement that lifestyles change after divorce.
FRIENDS – During and after a divorce, friends can take sides. And this means after it’s all over, you may find some of your friends have “gone to the other side”. That’s ok. You’re on a new journey, and there are new people waiting to be met on your new journey.
ADULT CHILDREN – As painful as it may seem, even adult children can side with one parent or the other. What can you do? All that you can do is try and maintain a healthy relationship with your children. If they truly have turned to your spouse, what can you really do? After all, they are adults, making their own decisions.
PETS – In Michigan, pets are considered personal property. And unless you and your spouse can agree on a pet custody/parenting time arrangement, the pets will be awarded to one party.
PERSONAL PROPERTY – Yes, the contents of the home must be divided. What does this mean for you? It means you should anticipate having to purchase some items for your new home. The upside to this is you, and you alone, get to decide how to decorate your new home, and what color your dinner plates will be. Don’t fight over the small stuff. Let it go and get yourself something you like even better.
LONELINESS – With divorce can come loneliness. Look at this as an opportunity for you to seek out new adventures, new friends, new hobbies, and new interests. Get involved in something you were not involved in when you were married. This is your time to change your world.
LETTING GO – At some point, you’ll get over the pain and frustration of your divorce. If you can’t seem to find your way out of the dark place your divorce has put you in, then seek professional assistance. There is no shame to ask for help to get past the emotional turmoil caused by your divorce. Don’t let your spouse win. It’s time to accept the divorce and find your happiness.
HELPING FAMILIES MOVE FORWARD.
GRAND RAPIDS COLLABORATIVE DIVORCE ATTORNEY SERVING KENT, OTTAWA, AND ALLEGAN COUNTY.
When confronted with any family law matter, there are personal and financial issues unique to each individual and family. In an effort to achieve the best possible outcome, we are committed to providing you with accurate information, outlining your options and providing thorough, effective and efficient representation. At the initial consultation, we will seek to understand your personal needs and your family’s needs, to help you move forward. To discuss your circumstances and legal options, contact Schmitt Law, PLLC at (616) 608-4634 to schedule a consultation. Or contact us online to arrange a consultation.
Our office is located at 401 Hall Street SW, Suite 112D, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.
