For readers of our blog, they know that divorce can be complicated, and as a result, can get expensive, fast. However, there are ways that those in the divorce process in Pennsylvania can reduce costs.
Children
There is no question that one of the most hotly contested divorce issues is children, so this is one area that couples can avoid significant costs. Specifically, workout these issues prior to filing for divorce. Child issues include care costs, like daycare, insurance, doctor’s costs, etc. In addition, decide where the child will live, visitation schedules and who will have the ultimate decision-making authority, i.e., decisions that relate to schooling, medical decisions, etc. Spell those decisions out, and then write them down. This will help the divorce attorney later and avoid litigation costs.
Property division
For all debts and assets that are brought into the marriage, their respective owners keep them at divorce. But, this does not mean that these items should not be discussed, along with those debts and assets that are acquired throughout the marriage. The couple should outline all of these assets and debts and decide how to split them up, fairly. If the couple can agree, then this too will avoid significant litigation and expert witness costs. Though, to value some assets, like businesses and art, an expert may still be needed to make sure that a spouse is not receiving a windfall from the divorce.
Prenuptial agreement
Another way that couples can greatly reduce divorce costs is through a prenuptial agreement that is entered into prior to the marriage. This agreement will dictate how a divorce is completed, but it needs to be legally enforceable, which is where an attorney would need to be used.
Coming together to move forward
The key for our Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, readers is the couple coming together, prior to a divorce filing, to figure out how they will move forward after their divorce. If both couples can come to terms with the ending of their marriage and work together, the costs associated with a divorce can be greatly reduced.
