Let’s set the record straight right away: I know divorce is hard for any man. But I would be remiss not to mention some of the specific challenges physicians face that may make their divorce even more difficult than average. In addition to the emotional turmoil a divorce brings, doctors often feel added stress when it comes to the division of their assets, spousal maintenance payments, and even child custody.
Here’s what you should consider as a physician to make things a little easier on yourself during your divorce.
Dividing Substantial Assets
Every man going through a divorce wants to be sure his assets are fairly divided, but there is much at stake during a high-asset physician divorce. If you have a prenup, you may have already outlined how your assets will be divided. If not, you’ll have to propose a plan your spouse can get behind or risk having a judge decide your fate. You must consider all assets, including your practice if applicable. Add in premarital assets, and things can get complicated quickly. Luckily, a doctor’s divorce lawyer for men in New Jersey should be adept at navigating this process.
Remember, a divorce isn’t just about splitting up assets; it’s also about debts. It’s important to consider the debt you may have accrued while attending medical school when offering a settlement. Even if you end up assuming full responsibility for this debt, your doctor’s divorce lawyer for men can help you offset this financial responsibility by securing an equitable distribution of your assets.
Negotiating Spousal Maintenance
Spousal maintenance (alimony) often comes into play during a physician’s divorce. Your demanding schedule as a doctor may mean that your wife chose to leave her career and care for your children and your home. Since it may take awhile for your wife to be able to support herself again after your divorce, it may be reasonable for you to expect to pay spousal maintenance, at least temporarily.
Many male physicians fail to realize that they are free to offer an alternative to alimony in a divorce settlement. If you would prefer, your lawyer may be able to offer your spouse and her attorney an offer they can’t refuse – such as an enticing lump sum as an alternative to regular alimony payments. You always have options, and spousal maintenance should only come into play when it is absolutely necessary.
Most Important: Finding A Good Attorney
Divorce services for doctors in New Jersey should only be offered by attorneys who understand the obstacles these medical professionals face. As you get to know potential divorce attorneys for male doctors in NJ, be sure to ask about how each lawyer tackles the issues of negotiating asset distribution, premarital assets and prenuptial agreements, and spousal maintenance. These can be the most costly factors in your divorce if they are improperly handled.
At The Micklin Law Group, we’re ready to customize our services to fit your divorce perfectly. We can help you enforce your prenuptial agreement, fight for fair asset distribution, and negotiate reasonable spousal maintenance. Our New Jersey men’s divorce law firm has been representing men from all walks of life for decades. We understand the rigors of your career and will do our best to accommodate your needs.
