On behalf of Stange Law Firm, PC posted in Family Law on Friday, July 5, 2019.
Couples in Missouri who are considering divorce may be more likely to file in August or March. A study by University of Washington researchers that was presented at the American Sociological Association examined filings in the state from 2001 to 2015 and identified the pattern. Some divorce attorneys also say there are increases in January.
Whatever the time of year, people who are considering divorce may want to take several factors into account. First, they should think about what going through a divorce will involve. Some couples might benefit from discernment counseling, a type of counseling specifically aimed at couples who are very close to divorce and need to make a final decision. People should also make sure that they understand their finances. Spouses may not know how many credit cards they own or who is on the title of the house or other property. All of this information will be important in property division. People may also want to start assembling a legal and financial support team and turn to family members who can offer emotional support.
Some experts say parents should think carefully about when they will tell their children, taking their resilience into account. Parents may want to wait until they have a solid divorce plan in place before they discuss it with children.
Couples who do decide to divorce may be able to move quickly through the process of property division if they have a prenuptial agreement. However, prenups do not address child custody, and parents must still come to an agreement about this or go to family court. Judges make their decisions based on the best interests of the child even when it might be inconvenient for parents. An attorney may be able to help a person with negotiations or litigation.
