Job Loss Can Heavily Impact Divorce

Making the decision to divorce in Tennessee can take an emotional toll on a person and be the beginning of a difficult period in one’s life. If a job loss is added to that upheaval, it can make an already complicated, and possibly contentious, divorce process seem that much worse. What are some steps that can be taken to lessen the impact?

Some questions that might arise include wondering how the court will react to the news, how it will impact negotiations and what action one should take. Much of this depends on the circumstances of the job loss. If the loss was a result of a downsizing or reorganization, one cannot be held to blame for the loss. However, if the loss was a result of one’s own behavior or actions, the court may not look favorably on the situation.

In the event that the loss was caused by a downsizing, the court will most likely make accommodations in a final decree that acknowledges a temporary change in financial circumstances. In such instances, steps taken might include a formula that stipulates a percentage of one’s income that will be owed once a person is again employed. The goal of the court is to ensure that the family is able to continue the lifestyle enjoyed prior to the divorce, particularly where children are concerned.

No one can predict the future, and job loss can occur with no warning. A person in Tennessee who is considering, or is in the midst of, divorce proceedings and experiences a job loss may wish to seek the counsel of an experienced family law attorney. A lawyer can review the circumstances of the situation and review possible options with the client.