According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a divorce happens once every 36 seconds in the United States, which averages out to approximately 2,400 per day. Unfortunately, thousands of separating couples make easily avoidable financial mistakes that affect them for years to come.
That is why it is always smart to speak with a family lawyer before you separate from your spouse. An experienced attorney can offer practical advice that pertains to the specific situation. Veteran family attorneys have seen it all, and they can help avoid common pitfalls that most people can’t identify on their own.
If you are looking for a dedicated family attorney to help manage finances and protect your interests in court, call us. At the Law Offices of Stuart R. Shafer, P.C., we have 39 years of experience in family courtrooms in Lansing, and you can count on us to stand up for your rights throughout the divorce process.
To arrange a consultation with a Lansing family attorney from our office, call us at 517-487-6603.
1. Don’t Overlook Retirement Assets While Negotiating
Most people fight tooth and nail for the home because it’s viewed as the most valuable type of asset that couples own. However, it may be wiser to look past the home and fight harder for retirement assets. Forbes recommends selling the home and dividing the sale.
This is because maintaining a large home will quickly begin to drain post-divorce funds. In most cases, it’s better to sell and relocate. Retirement accounts tend to grow, so think of it as an investment in future financial security.
2. Maximize Social Security Benefits After a Divorce
If you have been married for more than a decade and you are close to retirement age, there are some easy ways to maximize your social security. For example, many savvy divorcees claim their spousal benefit first and let their own benefit grow for several years before switching over. FOX Business advises that within four years, monthly income could grow by more than 30 percent.
3. Consider Hiring Expert Help
If the financial circumstances are very complicated or a spouse has a high net worth, it’s wise to hire a financial planner or forensic accountant to help during the separation. These experts can help simplify several complex concepts—from tax laws to uncovering hidden assets. If you aren’t sure where to look for a financial expert, talk to a family lawyer; he or she can most likely direct you to a trustworthy consultant.
If you are divorcing in Lansing, let us help you seek a positive outcome to the split. At the Law Offices of Stuart R. Shafer, P.C., we are experienced in a variety of areas of family law, including child custody, alimony and prenuptial agreements. To learn more about our services, please call 517-487-6603, and find out what 39 years of experience can do for you.
