On behalf of Stange Law Firm, PC posted in Family Law on Tuesday, April 25, 2017.
Divorce is one of the most stressful events a person can go through, emotionally, physically and financially. To make matters worse, the legal system can be quite overwhelming for most people.
While it is natural to feel besieged by everything, take a moment and try to recognize how you can actually use the legal system to your advantage during a divorce. Below are a few elements of the law that can actually help you feel more in control and less stressed out.
Divorce takes time
Although Missouri does not have the lengthy waiting periods that other states have in place, a divorce is not going to happen overnight. You won’t have a formal 90 day or six month waiting period to “cool off,” but you will have plenty time to consult an attorney, familiarize yourself with family finances and negotiate a settlement.
Your divorce doesn’t have to drag on and on, either. The speed with which you divorce will depend on you, your soon-to-be ex, and your abilities to reach agreements on various issues.
Mediation
It can be scary to think that your future is in the hands of a judge you’ve never met. Thankfully, however, most people are able to work through some or all issues related to their divorce in mediation. This process prioritizes peaceful, cooperative dispute resolution with the help of a mediator, which can come as a great relief to many people.
Laws that favor or recognize fairness
When it comes to child custody and property division, it likely will not be an all-or-nothing solution. This state recognizes equitable distribution of assets, meaning marital property will be divided in a manner deemed fair.
Similarly, child custody laws acknowledge the importance of a child maintaining a frequent, meaningful relationship with each parent, as long as doing so is in the child’s best interests. This means that in most cases, parents will share custody.
Keep calm and talk to your attorney
People without a legal background may not understand how the legal system can work for them during divorce. However, with the help of an attorney who knows all the above-mentioned elements as well as others, you can get through this difficult process as peacefully and fairly as possible.
