Most people are given one piece of solid advice when they divorce: get a good lawyer. There are many law firms in Orange County, but finding an attorney that specializes in family law and that is experienced and credible is extremely important. Many people in relationships don’t control finances at all, and they leave it completely up to their spouse. So a divorce can be a financial rude awakening. Divorcing means you’re now a one-income household. You might lose insurance, retirement savings, cars, furniture, etc.
It’s no surprise that when the economy drops, so does the divorce rate. Many people, women especially, lead an entirely different lifestyle post-divorce, or especially once spousal support payments cease. These people are forced to give up things like eating out at restaurants, shopping, expensive gym memberships, credit card spending, etc. It’s a tough situation to be in at first. However, many people feel extremely grateful to be in that situation. While that may not be the first emotion one feels, realize that people all over the nation, even in places like Orange County, stay in a loveless marriage because they know they couldn’t get by financially if they left their spouse. That’s usually a worse spot to be in than someone who has to rebuild with a slightly less expensive lifestyle.
A divorce can actually help many people take control of their finances, learn to stop overusing credit cards, start contributing to a 401(K), and live on a much smaller budget. Learning to rely solely on yourself for financial independence can be a great life lesson learned through divorce. Remember that a divorce or separation, and the years to follow, can be much easier on you with the help of a good attorney… and a prenup.