Jim Belushi has continued entertaining the world long after his actor/comedian brother, John, passed away some 30 years ago due to a lethal drug combination. As many Colorado residents who have lost loved ones can attest, life is never really the same following the premature death of a close family member. In Belushi’s case, life after his brother’s death included his own marriage — three of them, in fact.
If you have been divorced more than once and are currently planning to go through the process again, you may relate to Belushi’s situation. Belushi’s third wife recently filed for divorce. She and Belushi have two children together; however, Belushi also has a grown son from a previous marriage. Challenges regarding child support or spousal support may arise when a divorcing spouse already has court-ordered obligations to another family. You can avoid major complications by knowing where to seek support from the get go.
Common issues in a second or third divorce
No two marriages are the same; therefore, neither are any two divorces. However, you may find the following information applicable to your own circumstances:
- Belushi and his most recent future former wife married in 1998. Their children are ages 18 and 16.
- Belushi’s third wife is seeking spousal support. If a spouse requests the latter type of support, and you are already obligated to make such payments to another former spouse, it can put a definite damper on your budget.
- Belushi’s wife has also asked the court to grant joint legal custody of the two children involved. You may already know that legal and physical custody are different. Legal custody refers to decision-making authority whereas physical custody pertains directly to where children reside following divorce.
- If you have sole legal custody of your children, you need not seek anyone’s approval or opinion when making decisions regarding health, finances, education, religion or other major life issues for your children.
The court always has children’s best interests in mind. Even if your kids are older, it doesn’t in any way lessen the importance of making sure their needs are met once you no longer live with their other parent. Divorce does not necessarily have to ruin children’s lives, and your kids may fare best if they experience strong love and support from you.
Support for parents
Your kids are likely not the only ones who may need a helping hand when it comes to adapting to a new lifestyle after divorce. Even if, like Belushi, this is not your first divorce, it doesn’t mean it will be any easier or less stressful.
Many Colorado parents lean on close friends and extended family members for support throughout the divorce process, as well as guidance from experienced family law attorneys.