No matter where you live, the stresses placed on divorcing couples can be very different depending upon gender and the roles that have been placed upon each member of the couple. In addition to whatever roles each spouse has taken on, adding children into the mix of a divorce can prove to be particularly stressful. A recent entry on the Huffington Post discusses the best way to address the top three concerns of divorcing moms.
In this post, the writer contends that while it’s important for both parents to take as much responsibility for their children as possible, it’s also important in the event of a divorce to maintain consistency within a divorce. So for example, if the mother of the children was the primary caregiver, it’s in the best interest of the children to maintain that role, at least through the divorce. Here are a few questions that she’s faced as a family lawyer when consulting with divorcing mothers.
- Child Support Many divorcing women wonder how to calculate child support and what to expect to get after the divorce. It’s a tough question since every state has a different approach to calculating child support. In Texas, for example, one child is equal to 20-percent of net resources, or after-tax dollars. This formula in Texas can change depending upon other deductions as well as court orders. The short answer is it’s not easy to determine what sort of child support women can expect since it’s different in each situation.
- Spousal Support Many women wonder if they will qualify for spousal support or maintenance after their divorce is finalized. Once again, it really depends upon each situation and state. You’re more likely to qualify for maintenance/support if you show financial need and have been married for more than 10 years.
- Full Custody of Children Many women facing a divorce want to know their options in seeking full custody of their children after the divorce is final. Typically the mother will need demonstrate that she is the primary parental figure and/or that her spouse is unfit to be the primary conservator.
No question facing a divorce has an easy answer, but it’s always good to understand some of the basics. We’re happy to answer any questions you may have while facing the possibility of child support, custody and spousal support. Please contact the Pellerin Law Firm to set up a complimentary consultation.
Source: The Huffington Post, “Top Three Concerns of Divorcing Moms,” Natalie Gregg, April 26, 2013