When One Gets Divorced Can Have a Major Impact on Arizonans

Divorce can be expensive in a variety of ways. Parties to a divorce may lose assets through property division, a portion of their income through child support and alimony, and emotional well-being. But the list does not end there, and the full expense of a divorce can depend on when it happens.

Perhaps one of the most costly, intangible aspects of a divorce is the emotional toll it can take on loved ones. A daughter or son who is about to get married, for example, can have their happiest day dashed when her or his parents file for divorce just prior to the event. Likewise, filing for divorce before important holidays can create tension with children and might leave them unable to ever enjoy that holiday again.

Another aspect to consider when contemplating divorce is health insurance. Though spouses may be able to save money by sharing a health plan through an employer, divorce may through one party into a market where insurance can easily cost $1,000. Therefore, if it is possible and prudent, it may be in a party’s best interest to hold off on divorce until affordable individual health insurance can be acquired.

While the two tips discussed above are helpful, they are merely suggestions and do not fit every scenario. Of course it may be best to file for divorce immediately if there is a history of domestic violence or substance abuse and/or if children are in danger. In other words, it may be helpful to speak with a legal professional when deciding when to file for marriage dissolution. An Arizona family law attorney can help individuals address a variety of divorce legal issues, including those mentioned above as well as Parenting Time, and can help a party see through the emotions in order to make decisions in his or her best interests.

Source: The Wall Street Journal, “When’s the worst time to get a divorce?” Quentin Fottrell, May 23, 2014