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Kardos, Rickles & Hand Bucks County Divorce Attorney
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Stay-At-Home Parents And Divorce

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When a mom or dad stays home with the kids, it is often the decision of the entire family. For example, it may be decided after a baby is born that the family will forgo the expense of childcare and have the mother stay home if the father’s income is large enough to support the family. Of course there are times when the father is the parent to stay home because the mother’s career is a better financial support for the family unit.

But what if years later the couple decides it is time to divorce? While stay-at-home parents are doing an important job for the family, there is no income involved. It may be confusing to know how you will provide yourself after the marriage is dissolved. It is important to note that courts do recognize the work of stay-at-home parents. A Bucks County family attorney can inform you of your options moving forward.

Short-Term and Ongoing Alimony

It is common for a person who was reliant on their spouse’s income for years to seek alimony if the couple divorces. Because, if a parent left the workforce years ago to care for the children, it may be difficult to impossible for a stay-at-home parent to return to the workforce with a high earning capacity.

The courts of Pennsylvania rarely award an individual alimony in perpetuity. But there are times when a court deems alimony payments to be appropriate. It could carry a set end date, such as during the time the stay-at-home parent goes to school to develop a new or updated marketable skill. Keep in mind, alimony payments may end if the dependent individual remarries or moves in with another partner.

New Parents Could Opt for a Postnuptial Agreement

While it can be awkward and uncomfortable for parents to talk about the possibility of splitting up in the future, postnuptial agreement can be helpful if a new parent is giving up their career to be a stay-at-home parent. Doing this research and analysis in advance means an individual’s loss of career and income advancement can be addressed before they make the final decision to leave their job or industry.

Talking through life changes with a legal professional is advised. Then, decisions can be made with a clear mind. Emotional decisions are not always the best decisions for your financial security in the future. When choosing to leave the workforce and stay at home, make an effort to think about the impact of that decision beyond the next year or two. To plan for your future, connect with a Bucks County family attorney.

Are you a stay-at-home parent who is considering divorce but are worried about how you will be able to support yourself on your own? A skilled lawyer has the experience to secure the future you are seeking. The family law attorneys at Kardos, Rickles & Hand help. Our dedicated legal team understands the finer points of family law. There are opportunities to create the life you want. Schedule your consultation today, call 215-968-6602.

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