Sitting Down and Planning a Budget

The Goolsby Law Firm, LLC handles divorces only in Georgia and primarily in the Augusta, Georgia area. But here's a helpful hint, or tip, for all of you who are contemplating a divorce, no matter where you are located. And it's something that many people often overlook, as I have learned when prospective divorce clients call my son or me every day to discuss what to expect in a divorce.

Here's the tip: Sit down and plan a new monthly budget, (for your new life). Even though it may only be an estimate, it will help guide you in making other decisions about your divorce. For example, we recommend that you carefully investigate and examine how much your rent, (or mortgage), cable, utilities, groceries, and other living expenses might cost in a "new" home or apartment. Now, this doesn't mean that a divorce lawyer can promise you'll get everything you need. However, you need to carefully analyze how much money you will need, (for you and your kids), each month, in order to survive financially. Only then, (after preparing such a budget), can you know approximately how much you may need to try to get, (i.e. squeeze), out of your spouse, "Sluggo," in the form of alimony, child support, or a property settlement.

I am sure you realize that this step is only one of many you will have to take. But preparing a budget for your new life will help you as you take additional steps along the way. Please be sure to discuss this idea with your own divorce lawyer, along with all your other questions about your divorce!