People in Missouri who are getting a divorce may want to take steps to prepare for the divorce itself and for life after the divorce. A divorce has essentially three phases. First, there is the process of filling out paperwork and filing. Next, there is the discovery phase in which both spouses reveal their finances. Finally, there is a settlement.
Divorce preparation steps to take
Parenting after divorce requires focus on the children
Parenting after a divorce can become quite complicated. Many ex-spouses in Missouri struggle to make the situation work. By maintaining focus on the children and being committed to making co-parenting work, success is possible.
Dealing with changes to tax law during divorce
People in Missouri considering divorce may wish to expedite their plans in order to finalize before the end of the year. This is because there are some changes to federal tax laws that will go into effect at the beginning of 2019. Some of those changes could have a serious impact on the future finances of people who end their marriages. For people who want to ensure they are governed current tax laws during their split, finalizing during 2018 may be a priority.
Avoiding mistakes when dividing IRAs in divorces
When Missouri couples have IRAs and decide to divorce, it is important for them to make certain that they divide their retirement accounts correctly. If people make mistakes, they may face substantial tax liabilities from the Internal Revenue Service.
Joint legal custody for parents
Given that the rate of divorce rate in Missouri is above the national average, Missourians are likely aware of the anguish that comes with having to endure custody battles. On the one hand, children often find it emotionally trying to see their parents fight while feeling uncertain about what the future holds for them. On the other hand, not only may parents be terrified that they could end up missing out on a big part of their children's lives, but they might also be confounded by the amount of legal jargon thrown around.
Reality TV star files for divorce from former football player
Viewers in Missouri of "Kendra on Top" may recognize Kendra Wilkinson, who got her start in entertainment as a Playboy model. At the age of 32, she has filed for divorce from Hank Baskett, a former professional football player. They exchanged vows in 2009 and have two children, an 8-year-old boy and 3-year-old girl. With a separation date on her legal filings of Jan. 1, her divorce paperwork requested joint legal and physical custody of the children. She gave irreconcilable differences as the reason for the split.
Making smart financial plans in case of divorce
When couples in Missouri decide to get married, they may want to consider creating a prenuptial agreement. This document can specify which property belongs to each individual as opposed to being shared among the both of them and what will happen to shared property if the couple gets a divorce. Another precaution a person should take is difficult-to-appraise property, such as a business, valued before he or she gets married.
Is it always wise to play nice during a divorce?
During a divorce, it is typically unwise to let negative emotions -- like jealousy, anger and bitterness -- take control. Doing so could drag out a divorce, compromise your settlement and possibly even undermine your parenting rights.
