As the second month of the partial government shutdown begins, the financial predicament of income-less federal employees is becoming increasingly dire. Most Americans have less than $400 saved up for a rainy day, so getting by on no income is an extraordinarily difficult endeavor.
What to remember during a high-asset divorce
Just after the start of the new year, Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos announced that he would be divorcing his wife of 25 years. While the power couple is clearly trying to maintain a united front, both parties must realize that there could be a lot to gain and lose in the split. Every year, Texas courts dissolve quite a few high-value marriages. Though most Texans primarily view marriage as a romantic union, wealthy spouses often have something more like a business partnership. Any time spouses co-own major assets, disagreements about asset disposition can become acrimonious in a hurry. As if that wasn't bad enough, divorce mistakes can lead to life-changing financial loss.
Texas divorces spike in January
Many unhappily married couples decide to divorce in January. In fact, the first Monday in January is often referred to as "Divorce Day" among divorce attorneys. There are many reasons for the January spike in divorces. Along with new budgets and diet and exercise routines, many people also wish to make a fresh start with their romantic life for the new year. While some unhappy couples make one last attempt at reconciliation during the holiday months, they may come to the painful realization in January that the marriage is not going to survive afterward.
What you need to know about prenuptial agreements
Many people think signing a prenuptial agreement is the same as planning for your marriage to fail. While a prenuptial agreement does involve planning, it is not planning for your marriage to fail. It just helps you and your soon-to-be spouse plan what happens if that does occur.
Don't get into a gift giving contest with your ex
Splitting up with a partner is always difficult. However, when you share children, things get more complicated. You and your former spouse share custody or conservatorship as it is known in Texas. You may feel sadness and regret, particularly if you spent some of the holidays without your children. You may want to try to make up the time you missed with your children.
