Five Issues to Address After Divorce

The divorce process can be a long and arduous one. It can also be expensive. It is not surprising that so many people want to get the process over with as quickly as possible and move forward with their life. On the other hand, it is also not uncommon for people to feel hesitant moving forward. They may wonder what their new life will look like, or feel uncertain about their future.

Whatever you are feeling during this difficult time, it is important that you do not overlook important issues you should still address. Below, our Carbon County family lawyer outlines the most important issues to address post-divorce.

Changing Your Name 

Even though more and more people are choosing to keep their maiden or birth name after marriage, many people still take on the last name of their spouse after they get married. If you have taken your spouse’s name, you are not required to change it back. Many people choose to keep their new surname so they can have the same last name as their children, or because they simply want to avoid the hassle.

This is a personal decision you will have to make for yourself. If you do decide to change your name, remember to also change your passport, driver’s license, and your Social Security number.

Changing Your Estate Plan 

Under Pennsylvania law, any provisions in your will or other parts of your estate plan that name your spouse as a beneficiary are revoked automatically. This means that after your divorce is finalized, the courts will simply view those provisions as though they do not exist. Still, it is essential that you review your estate plan as soon as possible and make any necessary changes to it.

If you do not change your estate plan and something happens before your divorce is finalized, the provisions including your spouse will stand as they are. Also, you may want to include other beneficiaries that you did not when including your spouse.

Modifications 

Your divorce will resolve many different terms, including child support and child custody issues. Once your divorce is finalized, court orders are issued regarding these terms and those orders are final and legally binding. However, this does not mean that in the future, your situation will not change. In these instances, you may be able to petition the court for a modification.

When trying to modify a child support, child custody, or alimony order, you must prove there has been a substantial change in circumstances. You must also establish that the change is long-term and involuntary. For example, you cannot quit your job in order to avoid paying child support. If you involuntarily lose your job, though, you may be able to petition the court for reduced child support.

Our Family Lawyer in Carbon County Can Advise on Post-Divorce Issues 

At The Law Office of Kim M. Gillen, P.C., our Carbon County family lawyer can help you through the divorce process and advise on what to expect afterward so you are fully protected and can move forward in your life with confidence. Call us now at 484-613-0011 to schedule a consultation with our experienced attorney and to learn more about how we can help.

Source:

palegis.us/statutes/consolidated/view-statute?txtType=HTM&ttl=23&div=0&chapter=33&section=1&subsctn=0