There’s no denying that COVID-19 has affected people’s lives in many ways. And if you are in the process of getting a divorce, it’s highly likely that the crisis’ impact proves extra tough for you.
With courthouses closed for non-emergency dealings, you need to ask your Townsville lawyers how things will go. Most likely, the skeletal operations may delay your divorce, as well as applications for custody and support. And that’s just the half of it. Here are the issues that you might have to deal with while the COVID-19 fiasco is ongoing.
Delayed and Prolonged Divorce Proceedings and Finalization
A divorce is a lawsuit. As such, its progress and finalization are highly dependent on the timely and regular operation of the court system. However, because of the current health situation, courthouses are doing measures to protect their employees and everyone else who has a business on their premises.
These changes will generally affect how petitions and motions get filed. They also mean that concerned parties will have to anticipate delays in trials and hearings. The new measures will also affect how and when you can get a prove-up needed to finalize the divorce.
Dealing With the Children
You are probably dealing with your children at home now more than you’ve ever before. While it’s great to have some time to bond with your kids, the sudden lack of activities and change in routines can have various ripple effects on your family and parenting arrangements.
Now, it’s one thing to be the one at home with the kids, but it’s another to be at the other end of a co-parenting arrangement. As non-essential movement is discouraged nowadays, visitation arrangements, among other things, might be greatly affected.
Tricky Financial Matters
A divorce requires couples to divide assets, most of which are often tied up in investment and retirement accounts, as well as business-related interests. Unfortunately, the economic unrest caused by the ongoing health crisis may also tremendously affect your finances. Investment accounts may shrink and other financial issues could also come up.
Moreover, financial settlement negotiation can prove tougher around this time. As experts are yet to see an end to this crisis, it’s difficult to predict what will happen next.
Your Job and Money Matters
True enough, we’re at a point where job security has become more crucial than ever. Many people are unable to go to work, with some being laid off even. For couples who are in the middle of a divorce, changes in their jobs and income sources may significantly affect support payments. These changes will also matter in settlement and support negotiations.
Your House and Other Related Properties
For couples planning to sell their house after their divorce, it’s natural that the health crisis will bring undeniable effects. It’s easy to see why you might have difficulty selling the home even after the COVID-19 problem ends. People might put off purchasing a house after their finances have been shaken up. This means that you will probably have to wait a while before you can sell.
It’s Always a Good Idea to Consult Professionals
Indeed, now is a time of great uncertainty. But with the help of professionals including your divorce lawyer, you can get through your divorce successfully even though it may take longer than you’d initially expected. Your lawyer is also the best source of advice and information as to how you should deal with other divorce-related matters and issues.