Divorce is hard. Not only is it an emotional time, but also extremely stressful due to the confusion and uncertainty many experience. However, much of this stress can be relieved by being informed of the divorce process and preparing for what’s ahead. In this blog, we provide you with five things for you to consider when undergoing the divorce process in Indiana.
You Won’t “Win”. The first thing you must know is that you won’t “win” a divorce. No matter how favorable a divorce decree may be for an individual, no one ever walks away feeling they have really won anything. Many go into a divorce with the idea that they want to beat the other spouse. Rarely do divorces end with one spouse getting everything they asked for. Going into a divorce with the mindset of compromise will undoubtedly help relieve some future stress.
Equal Division of Property. In Indiana, marital property consists of all property owned by either spouse. Generally speaking, it does not matter if the property was acquired before or after the marriage, nor does it matter if it is in only in one of the spouse’s name, it is considered marital property. Furthermore, in Indiana, it is presumed that all marital property will be divided 50/50. If you are seeking more than 50 percent of the marital estate, you will be required to overcome this presumption.
Temper Your Expectations. Keeping in mind the two points above, it is important to remember to have reasonable expectations about the outcome of your case. Having a willingness to compromise will go a long way to relieve some of the stress. As mentioned above, rarely does either spouse get everything they want. Having reasonable expectations can help prevent some of the court battles that many go through fighting for everything they want. Most importantly, tempering your expectations will help you start moving on with your life as opposed to holding on to the past.
Your Divorce, Not Your Kids. If you have children, remember that your divorce is between you and your spouse. Your children will already experience their own stress, they don’t need to hear their parents talking about it in front of them. There are many out there who fail to consider the impact this has on their children. This is undoubtedly a hard time, but try not to make it harder for your children and keep it between you and your soon to be ex-spouse.
Light at the End of the Tunnel. While many of the points seem a bit “doom and gloom,” it is important to know that there is light at the end of the tunnel! It is very normal to experience sadness, or be fearful of the unknown, but sometimes the best way to live your best life is to cut ties with part of your past. If you are seriously considering divorce, are separated, or have even begun to undergo the divorce process, there is a reason why. That reason being that it is probably best for you. So while it may be hard in the beginning, know there is light at the end of the tunnel.
Divorces are emotional times for all involved. Not only are they emotional, but oftentimes complex. Obtaining skilled counsel is key to relieving some of the burden that comes with divorce. This blog was written by attorneys at Ciyou & Dixon, P.C. who handle divorces of all types throughout the state. It is written and posted for general educational purposes and is not to be construed as legal advice or solicitation for services. It is an advertisement.
