By now even the most casual football fan has seen how the Seattle Seahawks’ defense limited the Denver Broncos to a mere eight points in last Sunday’s Super Bowl. (For those who are very casual fans, the Seahawks’ defense had allowed the fewest points in the NFL over the last year). The defensive performance has led to discussions about how potential divorcees can defend themselves in legal proceedings.
A recent Wall Street Journal article noted some important ways a person going through a divorce can protect themselves. We will highlight them here.
Stay employed – Money is power. In this regard, marriage is just like divorce in that a person who has financial resources has choices. So if you are unemployed, you may be dependent upon the party and may have fewer choices as you divorce. Indeed, this does not rule out the possibility of getting a temporary support order, but you have to pay bills and put food on the table in the meantime.
Focus on the business transaction – Another good way to defend yourself is to look at the divorce as a business transaction, where emotions are usually not part of the discussion. When dividing property (especially real estate) it is critical not to get emotionally attached to marital property. It costs more, and you will likely end up replacing these items anyway.
Stay in tune with your support system – Your attorney, your financial advisor, your therapist and your accountant can help keep you grounded and focused on the big picture. In essence, a good defense is a team effort.
Source: WSJ.com “Three ways to protect yourself in a divorce,” Margaret Klaw, January 29, 2014
