Tips for Stay-at-Home Moms Getting Divorced in Kane County
Staying home to raise children is one of the most important and rewarding jobs a person can have. It is also one of the most demanding, both emotionally and physically. So when a stay-at-home mom gets divorced, it can be a very difficult time. Many stay-at-home parents worry about the financial impact of divorce, especially if they have been out of the workforce for a while. Before you begin the divorce process, it is important to understand your rights and options so you can make the best decisions for yourself and your children.
Consider Petitioning the Court for Spousal Support
Stay-at-home parents sacrifice their careers to care for their children full-time. Unfortunately, this can put parents in a vulnerable position during a divorce. Without an income of their own, many unemployed parents worry about how they will make ends meet after the divorce.
If you make little to no income, you may be eligible for spousal support payments. Whether or not you are awarded spousal support will depend on a number of factors, including the length of your marriage, your earning potential, and the standard of living you established during your marriage. In Illinois, parents may receive temporary spousal support payments during the divorce process as well as ongoing spousal maintenance after the divorce.
Understand Child Support Orders in Illinois
Illinois child support payments are calculated using both parents' net incomes. The non-custodial parent (the parent with less parenting time) will typically be responsible for paying a percentage of their net income to the custodial parent (the parent with the majority of the parenting time). An experienced divorce lawyer can help you estimate child support payments so you can start working on your post-divorce budget. Like spousal support, child support may also be awarded during the divorce process, before the split is finalized.
Make a Plan for Parenting Time
If you have chosen to stay home with your children, it is likely that you have established a routine that works well for your family. Once the divorce is finalized, you and your ex will need to figure out a new parenting schedule. Illinois parents are encouraged to create a "parenting plan" that outlines each parent's responsibilities and the times when each parent will be responsible for caring for the children. If you and your ex are unable to agree on a parenting plan, the court will create one for you.
Get the Legal Support You Need
Divorce is a complex legal process, and it can be even more complicated when children are involved. An experienced divorce lawyer can help you understand your rights and options so you can make the best decisions for yourself and your family. Contact an attorney today to get started on your case
Source:
https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/documents/075000050k501.htm
