Divorce is never simple, but for New York parents, it carries an extra layer of complexity. You’re not just dividing assets or redefining your future—you’re making decisions that directly impact your child’s wellbeing and financial stability.
At Brian D. Perskin & Associates, we know that the best divorce strategy is one that balances emotional care, smart legal planning, and long-term financial foresight. Here’s how to approach divorce thoughtfully when kids are involved.
1. Don’t Overlook the Cost of College
Amid custody arrangements, child support negotiations, and moving logistics, one crucial topic often gets buried: college planning. As tuition prices continue to rise, securing your child’s educational future should be a top priority in your divorce settlement.
Including a college savings clause in your Stipulation of Divorce isn’t just smart—it’s necessary. New York parents frequently turn to the state-sponsored 529 Plan to manage these contributions. This tax-advantaged account allows both parents to make annual deposits and invest in either stock-based options or more conservative savings vehicles like bonds or money market accounts.
Even if your relationship with your ex-spouse is strained, mechanisms exist to manage these funds responsibly:
- Account Freeze: A judge can freeze the 529 Plan to prevent either parent from making unauthorized withdrawals.
- Account Split: The existing funds can be divided equally, allowing each parent to manage their own 529 Plan separately.
2. Keep Conflict Away from the Kids
Research shows that children of divorce generally adjust well over time—unless they’re exposed to prolonged conflict. That’s why minimizing tension isn’t just about avoiding a stressful divorce—it’s about protecting your child’s mental health.
Make decisions about custody and visitation with your child’s stability in mind. Whenever possible, present a unified parenting plan and maintain a civil co-parenting relationship. Let your children know what to expect, and give them time to adjust to changes like new homes or schedules.
Children thrive when they have secure, consistent relationships with both parents. Keep lines of communication open, and consider family therapy or parenting education programs if needed.
3. Use Mediation to Stay in Control
Litigating your divorce in court often leads to drawn-out, emotionally taxing, and expensive battles. Mediation can help you and your co-parent resolve disputes over parenting time, support, and finances in a more cooperative, less adversarial setting.
Studies have shown that mediation not only leads to greater emotional satisfaction but also results in better outcomes for children. A mediator can guide both parties toward a workable solution—especially valuable when discussing sensitive topics like college savings or custody modifications.
4. Think Long-Term About Finances
College isn’t the only financial concern parents should plan for during divorce. Here are a few key points to consider:
- Child Support & Custody: New York’s child support formula considers both parents’ income and custodial time. Be sure to include how future changes—like a job relocation—might impact custody or expenses.
- Alimony (Spousal Maintenance): If one parent sacrificed career growth to raise children, this may be factored into support calculations.
- Health Insurance & Tax Benefits: Who will carry health insurance for the children? Who claims the tax deduction? Outline these details in your settlement.
Working with a skilled family law attorney ensures you won’t overlook these essential components—because once the divorce is final, changing the terms is much harder.
5. Work With a Trusted New York Divorce Lawyer
Even the most amicable divorces can get complicated fast. Hiring an experienced New York divorce attorney isn’t just about legal paperwork—it’s about protecting your future and your child’s.
At Brian D. Perskin & Associates, we help families navigate everything from college savings to child support to high-conflict custody cases. We’ll help you consider all aspects of your divorce, so nothing gets left out of your final agreement.
Build a Better Future with a New York City Family Attorney
Divorce doesn’t have to mean disruption and uncertainty. With the right plan in place, you can protect your child’s future, your financial stability, and your peace of mind. Whether it’s creating a clear college savings plan, establishing co-parenting boundaries, or negotiating custody with compassion, a thoughtful divorce strategy makes all the difference.
Ready to move forward with confidence?
Call Brian D. Perskin & Associates at (718) 875-7584 today to schedule your free consultation and begin your next chapter with clarity and support.