What Does the Phrase “Cheaper to Keep Her” mean?

The phrase "cheaper to keep her" has become a common saying in divorce cases, suggesting that it may be financially beneficial for couples to stay married, even if they are unhappy. In Illinois, the decision to divorce is a personal one that should be made based on a variety of factors, including emotional, practical, and financial considerations. In this blog, we'll explore whether it's cheaper to keep her in Illinois, examining the financial implications of divorce and the benefits and drawbacks of staying married.

The Financial Implications of Divorce

Divorce can be an expensive process, with costs including attorney fees, court fees, and potentially costly property settlements. In addition to these costs, divorce can also have a long-term financial impact on both parties, particularly if they have shared assets, debts, or financial obligations.

In Illinois, the division of property in a divorce is based on the principle of equitable distribution, meaning that property and assets are divided fairly, but not necessarily equally. This can be a complex process that requires careful consideration of each party's financial situation and the assets and debts that are being divided.

In addition to property division, divorce can also impact financial obligations such as spousal support and child support. In Illinois, spousal support, also known as maintenance, may be awarded to a spouse who is financially dependent on the other spouse, based on factors such as the length of the marriage and the earning capacity of each spouse. Child support is typically awarded to the custodial parent to help cover the expenses associated with raising the children.

Benefits of Staying Married

Staying married can have several financial benefits, particularly if both parties are financially stable and have shared assets or financial obligations. One of the main benefits is the ability to share expenses such as housing, utilities, and groceries. This can significantly reduce the cost of living for both parties and provide greater financial stability.

Another benefit of staying married is the ability to access each other's benefits, such as health insurance or retirement benefits. In many cases, these benefits are only available to married couples, and divorce may result in the loss of these benefits.

Drawbacks of Staying Married

While there are financial benefits to staying married, there are also several drawbacks to consider. One of the main drawbacks is the emotional toll of staying in an unhappy marriage. Staying in an unhappy marriage can be stressful and can impact mental health and overall wellbeing.

Another drawback of staying married is the potential for financial abuse or exploitation. If one party is the primary earner or controls the finances, they may use this power to manipulate or control the other party. This can lead to financial instability and can be a major barrier to leaving the marriage.

Factors to Consider

Ultimately, the decision to divorce or stay married should be based on a variety of factors, including emotional, practical, and financial considerations. In many cases, divorce may be the best option for both parties, particularly if the marriage is abusive, unstable, or unsustainable.

However, if both parties are financially stable and have shared assets or financial obligations, it may be beneficial to stay married and work on improving the relationship. This may involve seeking counseling or therapy to address underlying issues or concerns, or working together to create a more equitable financial arrangement.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the decision to divorce or stay married in Illinois is a personal one that should be based on a variety of factors, including emotional, practical, and financial considerations. While divorce can be expensive and have long-term financial implications, staying in an unhappy or abusive marriage can also be detrimental to mental health and overall wellbeing. By carefully weighing the benefits and drawbacks of each option and seeking the advice of an experienced family law attorney, individuals can make an informed decision about whether to divorce or stay married and can achieve greater financial stability and emotional wellbeing as a result.