Most people think that divorce is easier for couples without children because they don’t have to battle child custody and support matters, but there are some unique challenges that childless New Hampshire couples face that require serious consideration.
Dividing assets
Divorce for couples who don’t have kids will focus more on the financial aspects of the marriage. This includes the division of assets, debts and spousal maintenance.
Regarding property division, the court will try to split things equitably between the two of you. This is not exactly a 50-50 split but rather a fair and just division depending on your unique marital circumstances. And you can decide on how this will happen depending on your relationship.
For example, if you have no interest in ever being in contact with your ex again, you’ll likely avoid splits that tie you together, like maintaining ownership of marital property. You’d prefer to sell your shares, buy out your ex, or give them another asset of equal value to their claim.
When it comes to alimony, the court can order either of you to pay the other if there is a justifiable need and ability to pay. The amount and duration of payments will be based on many factors, including each spouse’s earning capacity, the standard of living during the marriage, the time you spent together and the age or health of each spouse.
Emotional impact
It’s common for childless couples to struggle with feelings of regret and sadness. They may wonder if they made a mistake getting married in the first place or if they could have done something to prevent the divorce. Some even blame their divorce on not having children. But, more often than not, children are not the glue that holds marriages together, even unhappy ones; the recent rise in gray divorces can corroborate this.
Deciding to divorce is never easy – regardless of your circumstances. But understanding what you can expect from the process can help make it a little less daunting.
