How can a stay-at-home mom afford a divorce?

As everyone’s budget belts tighten a notch or two in this down economy, it is understandable that many people are finding themselves in the predicament of wanting (or needing) a divorce but being unable to afford the sometimes prohibitive cost of getting one.  This is especially common for stay-at-home parents who have elected to remain home with children while the other spouses are the primary breadwinners and money handlers.

We want you to know that there are options in place to help you obtain the divorce and assist with the costs, even some of your attorney’s fees.  Once a Complaint for Divorce is filed (the initial document which starts the divorce lawsuit) with the courts, you can request a Pendente Lite hearing.  At this hearing a divorce referee will order temporary child support and spousal support/alimony if it is needed.  The defending spouse will usually be required to pay your attorney’s fees from that hearing.  Any temporary spousal support/alimony ordered by the courts at this hearing will be received only while the divorce is pending up until its final resolution, at which time a permanent support order will be entered for both child and spousal support.  The temporary support can help provide the funds that stay-at-home parents or otherwise unemployed spouses need to get through the divorce process.

The moral of the story is to not let the fear of monetary ruin dictate whether or not you choose to seek a divorce, especially in cases of emotional or physical abuse.  The legal system has put protections in place to help you.  Please seek the advice of an attorney to find out what route might be best for you.