Divorce leads to changes for virtually every member of the family, and both parties are likely to experience a significant shift in their financial resources. The property division process is high-stakes, as the terms of the final court order will determine a person’s financial future for years to come. For Florida stay-at-home moms who do not earn an income, there is a lot on the line during a divorce.
Women are much more likely to end up staying home with their children than men. When a divorce happens, it often leaves mothers facing a significantly reduced income and fewer job prospects, especially if they have been out of the workforce for years. While a stay-at-home mom has the right to an equitable share of all marital property, it is challenging to place a value on things like her role in the home and where she would be in her career if she had not decided to raise the children full-time.
Studies show that stay-at-home mothers face a very difficult path in a divorce. Even though both men and women recognize the intrinsic value of a caretaker, a stay-at-home mom may feel she has a fight on her hands to get half of all marital property. The same studies show that it is also rare for a stay-at-home mom to get long-term or permanent alimony.
Stay-at-home moms have a very important role in their home and in the lives of their children. Simply because they do not work does not mean they do not have a right to a fair share of marital property and necessary financial support. A Florida mom who is facing divorce may find it beneficial to seek legal counsel regarding property division as she fights for a strong post-divorce future,