Law Office of Joanne Kleiner

Amicable Divorce Attorney

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Jul 07

Financial Considerations in an Amicable Divorce

Divorce is a challenging life event, but it doesn’t always have to be adversarial and ugly. In an amicable divorce, couples work together to end their marriage in a respectful way, focusing on good communication and understanding. One important aspect of an amicable divorce is dealing with the financial side of things.

Before starting the divorce process, it’s important for both of you to understand your financial situation. This means having a comprehensive understanding of your assets, liabilities, income, and expenses. Take the time to gather and organize all the relevant financial documents, like bank statements, tax returns, and property ownership documents. Having a clear picture of your finances will help you make smart decisions and work out a fair settlement.

Female hand shaking male hand.

Assessing Assets and Liabilities

In an amicable divorce, it’s necessary to figure out both what you currently own and what you owe. This means looking at the properties, investments, retirement accounts, and any other assets acquired during your marriage. It’s also important to think about the debts you have, such as loans or credit card balances. By taking a good look at your assets and debts, you can make sure everything is divided fairly and equitably between the two of you.

Deciding how to divide your assets is a big part of a divorce. The division of marital property is often a significant consideration during divorce proceedings. Different jurisdictions adopt varying approaches, such as equitable distribution or community property principles. Equitable distribution aims to divide assets fairly based on various factors, including each party’s contributions to the marriage, earning capacity, and future financial needs. Through negotiation and compromise, couples can achieve a fair and mutually beneficial division of their shared assets.

Family Financial Planning

Spousal support, commonly known as alimony, is another financial consideration in divorce.  This is when one person pays the other person to help them financially after the divorce. The amount of support depends on things like how much money each person makes, how long the marriage lasted, and each person’s needs. Talking openly about spousal support and thinking about the future can help you come up with a fair agreement.

When children are involved, the financial well-being of the children becomes a primary concern. Child support ensures that both parents continue to provide financial support for their children’s upbringing and welfare. During an amicable divorce, it is essential to determine child custody arrangements that prioritize the best interests of the children. Open discussions and cooperation are crucial in creating a child support plan that is fair and sustainable for both parties.

Divorce can have significant tax implications, and understanding them is vital for effective financial planning. Various aspects, such as the treatment of alimony, child support, and property transfers, can impact tax obligations. Seeking professional advice from a tax specialist or accountant will help you navigate these complexities and make informed decisions that align with your financial goals.

Planning for the Future

Considering the long-term financial implications of the divorce is essential for securing your financial future. Setting realistic goals and developing a post-divorce financial plan will help you move forward with confidence. Seeking the guidance of financial planners or advisors can provide valuable insights into managing your finances, investments, and retirement plans.

In an amicable divorce, addressing financial considerations is crucial for a smooth transition and fair outcomes. By understanding your financial situation, dividing your assets and debts fairly, and considering things like spousal support and child support, you can make the financial side of divorce a little easier. With the help of professionals and by planning for the future, you can set yourself up for a stable financial future after the divorce.

Amicable divorce ultimately requires commitment, compromise, and patience from both parties, but is an excellent option for Pennsylvania couples who are motivated to part ways peacefully without the need for court intervention. If you’re interested in this type of divorce, you might want to seek the assistance of a qualified divorce lawyer who can help you determine if it’s the right choice for you. Contact the Law Office of Joanne Kleiner at 215-886-1266 to speak with an attorney at our Jenkintown office about your legal rights and options.

Feb 15, 2023

The effect of a gray divorce on your older children

How Does Gray Divorce Affect Adult Children?

A “gray divorce,” also known as a “silver split” or “late-life divorce,” is a term used to describe when couples who are at or over 50 years old end their marriage. While this type of split was once a rare occurrence, it has become increasingly common over the last few decades. Consequently, the number of adult children whose parents are getting divorced is also increasing.

The effects of divorce on young children are well-known, but few consider the effects of a gray divorce on older children. Although adult children may not experience the same level of distress as younger children, divorce lawyers know from experience that children can still be negatively impacted by their parents’ separation long after they’ve become adults.

It Can Alter Their Views of the Past

Many adult children of gray divorces look back on their childhood and adolescence in a new light. While they may have previously believed their family was a happy one, the news of the divorce can cause them to re-evaluate their memories. Any positive memories of their family may become clouded with uncertainty and regret.

To help adult children with this, parents should try to preserve good memories. Go through old photos and videos together and reminisce about the good times. It can be comforting for adult children to know that their parents were once happy, even if things didn’t work out in the end.

They Might Feel Blindsided

Because adult children of gray divorce are often out of the house and don’t experience the same level of direct contact with their parents’ divorce proceedings, they may feel as though they have been excluded from an important part of their familial narrative. Feelings of anger may arise if they weren’t informed earlier or included in the decision-making process.

If possible, parents should talk with their adult children early on in the divorce proceedings. Explain the reasons for the split and allow them to provide input. They might not be able to change the outcome, but encouraging them to share their thoughts can help them feel heard and respected.

Relationship Anxiety May Increase

Adult children of gray divorces may also be more likely to develop commitment issues. Many are already married when their parents get divorced, and their feelings about their own marriage can be tainted by the news. They may have entered their marriage with their parents’ marriage as a model, and the news of their parents’ divorce can cause them to doubt their own relationship.

Parents can help their adult children cope with this feeling of relationship anxiety by reassuring them that all relationships are different. The divorce can serve as an example of what not to do and be a conversation starter on how to create a healthy, lasting marriage.

They May Have Financial Concerns

Gray divorces often come with a host of financial complexities as they may have amassed more assets throughout their marriage than younger couples. This can create a great deal of stress for adult children as they may feel an obligation to step in and help their parents financially.

Adult children may also worry about logistical issues such as wills, estates, and trusts. Parents should try to alleviate any money worries their children might have by showing them their financial plans and walking them through what will happen to their assets in the event of death or incapacitation after the divorce is finalized.

Overall, adult children are likely to approach their parents’ split differently than younger children. Understanding the unique factors that come with adult children of gray divorce can help parents best support their adult children during and after the process.

If you’re going through a gray divorce, reach out to your adult children and start the conversation; they may surprise you with their resilience and understanding. Then, contact a Pennsylvania divorce lawyer for reliable legal advice and support. With a trusted legal partner on your side, you can leave the details of your divorce to the professionals and focus on healing with your family. Call the Law Office of Joanne Kleiner at (215) 886-1266 to schedule a consultation today.

Jan 18, 2023

Some losses that divorce might cause

Unexpected Losses a Divorce Could Cause

As you seek an end to your marriage, it can be difficult to understand what your life will look like after the divorce is finalized. Over 630,000 people obtained a divorce in 2020, many of whom encountered similar challenges. Along with the expected losses of personal possessions and finances, there might also be some unexpected losses that affect you in the weeks and months following your divorce.

Being Unable to Share in Your Child’s Disappointments or Achievements

One of the most significant losses after a divorce is the inability to share in your child’s disappointments or achievements. If your child aces a test or gets into their dream college, you and your ex-spouse likely won’t share these important events.

However, you may be able to adjust to this loss after some time has passed. For instance, your friends can share in your pleasure. The relationship you have with your ex-spouse could also become more amicable over time, which might allow for these events to be shared without any tension or feelings of anger being added to the mix.

Losing Some of Your Close Friends When Sides Are Taken

You might notice in the immediate aftermath that some people you were good friends with while you were married are avoiding you or no longer conversing with you as often. During this time, you’ll be able to determine who your actual friends are. If you have people who still hang out with you even though you aren’t married, they are still your friends. These individuals can give you the support you need as you adjust to a non-married life.

Losing Out on Financial Security

The sudden drop in finances that occurs following a divorce can be difficult to handle if you’ve never been in this situation. You might begin to wonder when you’ll be able to retire or if you’ll have difficulties finding a place to live. While your budget may be smaller, being more focused on how you spend your money can be advantageous in the long run.

Whether you live on a lower income or focus on finding more work, there are a couple of options you have to reduce the anxiety that comes with being in a new financial situation. Many people find that they have more time after a divorce to tend to their finances. If you’re still in the midst of a divorce and want to take steps to protect your finances, call our Pennsylvania divorce lawyer today to ask questions and schedule a consultation.

Losing Your Best Friend

If you’ve considered your spouse to be your best friend but find that your marriage just isn’t working, getting a divorce can make you feel like you’ve just lost the person you were closest with. The connections that were built up during a marriage will likely dissipate in the months following.

Whether your ex-spouse would do the taxes every year or would know exactly what to do when you were sick because of their profession, being unable to speak with this person in the future can be a shock to the system. With time, however, it becomes possible to build different connections and find new resources. You could also take this time to develop skills that you weren’t interested in before.

Losing Shared Memories and Traditions

Another loss that many people have after getting a divorce involves losing the shared memories and traditions that naturally develop throughout a marriage. If you have children, you might have created some holiday traditions over the years. Maybe you went camping regularly with your family as a way to spend some quality time together.

In the time immediately following a divorce, taking part in these traditions and activities can be painful. Keep in mind, however, that you have the ability to make new celebrations and traditions with your friends or children.

Losing Out on the Future You Were Building Towards

There are times when the loss of the dreams and hopes you might have had during your marriage can weigh you down. If these dreams are no longer achievable, they can make way for new ones that are entirely your own. As is the case with most of the potential losses in this guide, time is a healer of all wounds.

Once you’ve accepted that your life isn’t the same as it was, you might be able to move on and look to a future that’s just as appealing. Everyone goes through different losses when they obtain a divorce. Even though they can be difficult to manage at the beginning, acknowledging and accepting these losses should make it easier to navigate them.

If you are currently weighing the possibility of filing for a divorce and would like some advice or legal representation, call our New Jersey divorce lawyer today at (215) 886-1266 to schedule your first appointment.

Jan 14, 2023

Divorce and managing your emotions

Manage Your Emotions During a Divorce

No one wants to go through a divorce, but in some cases, it is inevitable. You may feel many conflicting emotions, such as guilt, relief, or anger. No matter what you do, it is crucial to keep those emotions in check.

Acknowledge Your Feelings

It is important to express your feelings, but you cannot keep dwelling on them, especially those negative thoughts. Ruminating about issues, problems, or events that trouble you will only make matters worse. When you are thinking about your situation, write down any thoughts. Writing your ideas down allows you to think through them more carefully. With that, you will not overreact when certain situations develop.

Consider writing down a few concerns about your legal issues. Additionally, think about what you want to ask your attorney. You will see some progress in your emotional health by taking a few minutes to think critically about your situation. While it may seem like you are not in control of the problem, writing out your concerns will allow you to manage the situation mentally.

During the divorce process, you may also experience frustration with your estranged spouse. Sometimes, they could make the process extremely difficult for you. When emotions run high in your marriage, it is not a good idea to deal directly with your spouse, but it is crucial to deal with your feelings. Instead of letting your emotions get the best of you, write a letter to your estranged spouse. You might not send it, but it allows you to express your emotions on paper.

Focus on the Future

Reliving bad memories can be a damaging and unhealthy habit. If you keep reliving the bad times, you will keep yourself trapped in those moments. Along with that, those situations or people will continue to have power over you.

If you go back to the beginning of your relationship and think about those happy moments, it can be harder to move through the divorce process. You might even feel like you are mourning a death. Yes, a divorce is an end to the marriage, but you will need to continue to move forward with your life. It is important to control your emotions and think about what’s ahead for you.

Now is the time to make plans for the future. This type of thinking can allow you to keep your emotions in check. Instead of focusing on the negativity, you should concentrate on what your life will be like in the next year. A divorce can allow you to focus on your goals and dreams. For this reason, it can help to have a divorce lawyer handle the legal process while you focus on your emotional well-being.

Speak to the Right Professional

While you might have a great relationship with your divorce attorney, they cannot solve every issue. Before calling your lawyer, check with friends, family members, or a support group. Lawyers are the right people to handle legal matters, but they are not trained therapists. Consider finding a licensed counselor or therapist who works with clients through a divorce. These professionals will be able to support you and give you a few tips to manage your emotions and other aspects of your life during a divorce.

Unfortunately, divorces can stir up plenty of emotions. While some people are great at handling problems on their own, many need to seek professional help. A therapist can help you look more rationally at the situation. Many attorneys even partner with mental health professionals to help serve their clients. No one wants you to struggle on your own. They have the resources to help you navigate the divorce process and come out the other side emotionally stronger.

Need Some Help With Your Divorce Case?

A divorce can be a complex and challenging process, especially when emotions are involved. You might want to contact a divorce lawyer to help you navigate the legal process and understand your options. Reach out to the Law Office of Joanne Kleiner at 215-886-1266 for a consultation about your Philadelphia divorce case.

Apr 17

Can You Increase Child Support if Your Ex Gets a Pay Raise?

Can you increase child support if your ex makes more?

The courts use the Pennsylvania child support formula to calculate child support obligations. When a parent has a change in their income, the other parent may wonder if it’s grounds for a child support increase. In Pennsylvania, the court may change a parent’s child support obligation because the parent makes more money than they did at the time of the last court order.

Support changes because of income changes

Child support awards are based on the needs of the child and the resources of the parents. The court may consider the entire circumstances when determining what monthly amount to order. Generally, support awards in Pennsylvania are set by a formula. The paying parent receives a calculated offset for the time they spend with the children. In general, the court sets the amount that the parent pays based on the parent’s gross income minus deductions, plus allowances for medical care and child care.

The law allows for a modification of support because of a change in circumstances. A change in circumstances can be a raise. When a parent is aware that the other parent has more income, they may ask for an increase because of a raise. If the court agrees, they may recalculate the amount and change support accordingly.

How to raise support because of a raise

To increase support because of a raise, the parent files a court motion. They fill out a form. The court schedules a conference on the matter. A parent may have the help of a divorce lawyer to assist them in the process of asking for a change in the amount of the order.

The court may ask for proof of income. The court may increase the amount because of a significant change in income. Minor changes are not sufficient. The court can account for seasonal income and even commissions, tips and bonuses. When a parent is self-employed, there are allowable deductions for business expenses. The court may look at detailed information in order to arrive at a true net income that represents the funds that a parent has available to pay support.

Reporting a raise to the court

If a parent has a change in income, they are required to report it to the court within seven days. A parent may ask the court for a hearing if they suspect an income change even if the other parent does not make a timely report. The amount ordered is due each month until the court changes the order. In order to have a change in support, the parent must initiate a review of their case by filing the appropriate motion.

Periodic review of child support

Even if there is no known change in income, a parent may request a review of child support every three years. If it has been three years, the court may conduct a review upon request. During the review, the court ensures that incomes are calculated appropriately and that costs like health insurance and child care are updated. A divorce lawyer may assist a party with presenting information to the court.

Support awards for high incomes

If parents have a combined income over $30,000 per month, an increase in parent earnings may not increase a child support award. There are a number of reasons that the court may deviate from the amount recommended by the child support formula. When parents have an especially high income, it may be grounds for a deviation. The court looks at all of the relevant circumstances including the income of the parents.

Legal assistance for child support if ex makes more money

If you suspect that your ex is making more money, you may qualify for an increase in support payments. But you must take action. Our legal team can help. If you suspect that your ex is making more money, contact the Law Office of Joanne Kleiner at (215) 886-1266 to see how you might increase child support.