Can’t Afford Divorce in Hard Times

A recent article on the washingtontimes.com website details the plight of those that are considering seeking divorce in these difficult financial times. While it remains true that financial problems are one of the #1 reasons why people get divorced in today’s society, our exceedingly difficult financial forecast has brought on a new issue when it comes to divorce. Many couples cannot afford to get a divorce.

For the first time in a long time, the story explains, we are seeing couples staying together because it makes financial sense.

“People simply can’t afford to get divorced. They can’t afford the legal fees; they can’t afford having two separate places to live,” said Michele Weiner-Davis, a Colorado social worker. “There are a lot of couples who decide they have to stay together and have become motivated to do so.”

Issues like job loss, home equity loss, and the inability for couples to refinance loans, have all led to a larger number of unhappy couples to delay their divorces, choosing instead to just separate.

The flip side of this, however, is that the tough economic climate could benefit some that are looking to divorce. Plunging real estate prices mean that anyone who has to buy out his or her spouse likely will keep the family home for much less money than it would have cost two years ago.

In addition, the extra strain and stress of finances in a marriage can come to light and become a significant factor in these challenging times, especially when it comes to the spending that wives and husbands can do for themselves. When checking accounts had a little more money in them, these small purchases were often overlooked, but with everybody tightening their belts and every penny being accounted for, these purchases now raise eyebrows and can cause arguments. These additional stresses on a marriage can become too much for some to bear.

At Wallin & Klarich, we’ve handled hundreds of divorces. Our skilled California divorce attorneys understand that we see clients at a difficult time in their lives; that’s why we’re dedicated to getting the best possible outcome for each and every one of our clients. And with 16 attorneys serving 33 offices in five Southern California counties, you can count on us to provide personalized service. To discuss your case with us, call us today at 1-888-749-7428.

Source:http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2009/feb/06/cant-afford-divorce-in-hard-time-couples-stick-tog/