Even the most amicable divorce can be an emotionally draining time for both spouses, but a man faces especially unique issues when he and his spouse are splitting up. Unfortunately, men are still at a disadvantage when it comes to alimony, child support, and custody. This can lead to feelings of confusion and hopelessness, and many divorcing men are forced to surrender to these inequities.
Luckily, there is good news for divorcing husbands and dads. As a man, you have custody and financial rights during a divorce despite what your ex may say to you – or what her attorney might argue. Here are a few simple steps you can take to ensure you don’t forfeit those rights.
Don’t Make Any Assumptions
Nothing is “a given” when it comes to family law, especially in the 2020s. Things are changing, and the courts are starting to understand that each marriage should be carefully considered before a judge makes his or her divorce ruling. Don’t assume you’ll be forced to pay alimony or give up certain assets just because you’re the man in the marriage. Your finances should be the most important consideration during your divorce – not your gender.
Your spouse’s divorce lawyer may make it seem like your options are limited, but nothing could be further from the truth. Don’t make assumptions about the assets you’ll be forced to forfeit, the alimony you’ll have to pay, or the child custody arrangement you must accept. A family law lawyer for men will help you set aside your assumptions and make constructive decisions about your future.
Inspect Your Finances
Men who are going through or are about to go through divorce should be prepared to think about their financial situation. In a case of high net-worth businesses, it may end up that you may need to shell out a larger sum in spousal and child support. You can potentially make your divorce a less expensive process If your communication with your partner is straightforward and all divorce concerns are sorted prior to court. Try and look at your situation and calculate the expenses you may expect down the road so you can plan your finances better. This will help you end up with a truly equitable divorce settlement.
Document Everything
When you document your bank and investment accounts, budgets, and other financial transactions, you’ll be prepared to fight for an equitable distribution of your joint finances. Knowledge is power when it comes to a divorce. I also recommend keeping an eye on your mail to see if you’re receiving bills and account statements for assets and debts your spouse has kept hidden from you. For example, your wife may have credit card accounts you don’t know about, or she could have a savings account she’s been secretly augmenting in preparation for the divorce. You are entitled to these marital assets, so keep your eyes open and stay vigilant when it comes to your finances.
In addition, divorcing fathers should document details about their relationship with their kids. If you believe your divorce will be high-conflict, there’s a possibility your spouse will attempt to obtain primary custody of your children. I believe any loving father should be entitled to 50/50 custody, and the courts tend to agree. However, it doesn’t hurt to illustrate the positive relationship you have with your kids so the judge can see how important family time is to you.
Hire A Men’s and Fathers’ Rights Attorney
Since family law standards are constantly evolving, it is vitally important for men to use a family law attorney who is closely tracking the developments and knows how to make their case at both settlement conferences and – if it comes to it – in court. Your attorney should specifically focus on how men are affected by divorce if you want to ensure you receive the best possible representation.
The Micklin Law Group’s attorneys have focused on men’s rights during family law cases for decades, so we know how to get you the divorce outcome you deserve. We’ll act as your ally during the process by advocating for you and protecting your rights during mediation and in court. Contact us to schedule a consultation with one of our skilled and experienced divorce lawyers for men.
