Three Questions Every Stay-at-Home Parent Should Ask Themselves When Getting a Divorce

 Posted on November 26, 2019 in Child Custody

From big-time publications such as The New York Times and Forbes to hundreds of parenting blogs across the internet, the media is littered with strong opinions - and equally strong judgements - on the subject of divorce and stay-at-home parenting. Society, it seems, is especially hard on stay-at-home mothers who wish to remain at home after a divorce is finalized. Oddly enough, though, stay-at-home parents are bombarded with judgement no matter which path they decide to take. For many, choosing to stay at home is simply not a luxury they can afford. However, for those truly desiring to maintain their homemaker role after a divorce, even when finances are tight, the option can be explored and may still be a possibility, regardless of what critics have to say.

Stay-at-Home Parenting Preparation for Divorcing Couples

As you begin the divorce process, many factors need to be considered when deciding who will stay at home with the children or whether or not the stay-at-home parent will enter the workforce once the dissolution is final. Depending on the nature of your relationship with your ex-spouse, this can either be a contentious battle or a team effort to protect the best interests of the children and the family as a whole.

Whatever your circumstances, ask yourself the following questions as you move forward with your plans:

1. Do you intend to continue to be a stay-at-home parent? - Do you feel entering the workforce as a newly single parent would be feasible, or would it be an impractical solution? Determine what kind of family dynamic you would like to have, the kind of life you visualize and want as a divorced parent, then write down those goals to identify your priorities. You may discover that your feelings change as the divorce process unfolds. It is okay to change your mind. Confide in a close friend, discuss your thoughts with family or a therapist, and draw on the support you need.
2. Have you organized your finances and discussed them with the other parent? - Everything from the division of assets and debts to child support should be evaluated and discussed with the other parent. Do your best to thoroughly review your finances and budget to get a clearer picture of what your life would be like as a stay-at-home parent with primary responsibilities for the children. If you fear you cannot afford to stay home with your children once you review your finances, discuss your concerns with the other parent if you are able to interact on civil and amical terms. If tensions are too high and you are unable to agree on financial matters, consider divorce mediation and consulting with a legal professional.
3. Do you know your legal rights? - There is no substitute for competent, seasoned legal counsel, especially when it comes to protecting your rights as a stay-at-home parent. Divorce attorneys familiar with Illinois law and how it works are able to guide you, answer your questions, and inform you of the parental rights you are entitled to during and after a divorce. If tensions are building between you and the other parent or the task of sorting out stay-at-home parenting plans already have you feeling overwhelmed, seeking out sound legal assistance can be an invaluable tool.

Consult with a St. Charles Divorce Attorney

Do not put off speaking with a Kane County divorce lawyer until the very last minute. Take a proactive step in protecting your rights as a stay-at-home parent today by calling Weiler & Associates, Inc. at 630-331-9110 and scheduling a consultation.

Sources:

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/divorce-and-the-stayathom_b_1102453

https://parenting.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/01/19/divorce-and-the-stay-at-home-mom/