Even with an improving economy, it is more important than ever for divorcing parties to think critically about how they spend money in dissolving their unions. Most people already know that divorce can be expensive, especially when children are involved. So those motions you want to file to keep your ex-spouse honest could have a significant effect on your ability to maintain a decent standard of living for you and your children.
For divorcing couples seeking to control costs during divorce, the following tips are helpful in reaching accords without breaking the bank.
Try working out your differences – This may be a tall order considering that you may despise your ex-spouse right now, but if you can see how much money you’re wasting on fighting, it’s possible to come together and work something out yourselves. Through mediation, your costs could be lowered considerably by working towards solutions instead of proving each other wrong.
Reduce child care costs – Try agreeing with your ex that you will use each other as babysitters, especially if one parent is currently unemployed. The children would certainly benefit from spending more time with a parent compared to a babysitter. It may also increase the chances a supporting parent will meet his (or her) child support and alimony responsibilities.
Reduce transportation costs – Many court ordered parenting plans call for the non-custodial parent to see the child every other weekend and every Wednesday. Adjusting the schedule so visitation happens Thursday through Sunday removes two round trips from the schedule instead of driving back and forth on Wednesday, and again that Friday.
If you have questions or need suggestions on other ways to reduce parenting costs, an experienced divorce law attorney can advise you.