How to get divorced without going bankrupt

The first expense that must be faced in a divorce is the paperwork. Depending on the complexity of each case, it can cost from 750 euros per spouse to several thousand euros. In this regard, a growing number of insurance companies include legal coverage for contingencies related to the dissolution of marriage in some of their policies. "In this case, it only applies if, at the time the policy was taken out, there were no indications that the relationship was going badly or the separation was already underway," says insurance broker Carlos Lluch.

In any case, Mañas anticipates that these types of solutions will gain "increasing" and "sustained" interest as awareness and penetration of legal protection insurance increases. In this regard, the legal services company offers a specific policy designed to provide legal advice and management services after a breakup.

For its part, the insurance company Generali also offers a home insurance policy with optional coverage that would allow the insured to file a claim against their spouse or common-law partner in the event of, for example, non-payment of benefits or visitation rights. "If both parties were insured by the company, free choice of lawyer and solicitor would be guaranteed, with a limit of €6,000 per claim," Generali explains.

Meanwhile, the ARAG insurance company offers a policy that covers expenses related to the dissolution of marriage. The product includes reimbursement of legal expenses for separation or divorce—up to €1,200, half for each spouse—and assistance with alimony payments, up to €1,000 per month for up to one year.

There are, however, other ways to protect yourself from the financial impact of a divorce. "The tool that best protects both parties is a prenuptial agreement," says Adriana Auset, a family law attorney. Signing this type of agreement allows the couple to plan the distribution of assets in the event of a separation, as well as pensions (alimony and maintenance), compensation for the less fortunate spouse, and even reach agreements on how the family business will be managed after the breakup.

Finally, Auset points out that the most economically vulnerable partner in a couple is usually the one who gives up their professional career to dedicate themselves to caring for the children and the home. Alimony is sometimes "not enough" to maintain the same standard of living. Therefore, if there is no prenuptial agreement, she advises choosing an appropriate marital regime and taking an active role in the couple's financial management.