The COVID-19 pandemic has had a strong influence on Indiana divorces, placing the last straw on the backs of many strained relationships. This causes stress on the whole family, but with the proper care and Indiana family lawyer in court, reaching a satisfactory conclusion can be a lot less complicated.
Many find themselves wondering if now is a good time to file for divorce, but Ziemer Law, LLC is seeing proceedings move forward. In the new normal created by social distancing and increased reliance on the phone and video conferencing, proceeding with a divorce is complex but far from impossible.
If you’re seeking to file for divorce in Indiana during the pandemic, here are a few things to consider.
Safety
The number one concern for you and your family should be safety. If there is domestic abuse in your household, you should not hesitate in asking the court for protection orders to preserve your well-being.
Another concern may be insurance. Any Indiana divorce attorney will tell you, if you rely on your partner’s insurance for medical care, the continuation of adequate health insurance and related costs need to be included in the cost-benefit analysis. Out of pocket services also need to be examined as the divorce proceeds.
Finances
Courts rely on the incomes of both parties to determine spousal and child support, but – with the economic instability caused by the COVID-19 pandemic – this is more complicated than ever. During the outbreak, many jobs have been interrupted, reduced, or turned into virtual work from home situations, leading to vast amounts of people relying on unemployment or other government-funded programs for support.
Though this is not permanent, it has immediate and long-term effects on everyone’s well-being – especially where children are involved. If you or your spouse are facing financial burdens because of COVID-19, now may not be the best time to file for divorce. As parties deliberate finances, your Indiana divorce lawyer needs to take into consideration increased job instability for you or your spouse in the coming months.
Children
When children are involved, agreeing on parenting may be more challenging during the Coronavirus pandemic but it’s still just as important. A guardian’s job could affect how often that parent can see the child. Medical professionals are working around the clock, while retail businesses are on hiatus. This can impact a parent’s time with children, requiring alternative parenting arrangements or childcare.
There are many options for each family in determining its response to the pandemic. Once schedules return to normal, this is an issue that can be revisited.
Property
Another practical issue common in divorce is the issue of the family home and other joint property. Indiana courts can issue orders forcing one party to vacate the family home, however, the pandemic makes finding a new residence difficult. It’s common for some parties to live together while a divorce is pending.
These are awkward living conditions at best. If things become dangerous, though, contact the authorities immediately.
Consider living arrangements before filing for divorce – especially during the pandemic
Care and Experience is Critical
Ziemer Law, LLC understands that in these uncertain times families need an attorney with care and concern for a family’s well-being who is willing to work hard to reach an agreement that works for our clients. Whether in need of a protection order, advice on timing a divorce, or simply want to speed up the process, Jay Ziemer can provide you with sound guidance.
Experienced with success in family court all over Indiana, Jay’s number one concern is making sure his clients get the best representation in any court. There are several ways to protect your family – let Jay help protect them with you.
7180 Olive St
Evansville, IN 47715
(812) 568-4118
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