Author: Jennifer Piper

Jennifer R. Piper is a family law attorney, mediator, and parenting coordinator with more than 20 years of experience serving families in the St. Louis area. She is certified as a Guardian ad Litem and frequently appointed by courts to represent children in high-conflict cases. Jennifer is a former Chair of the Family and Juvenile Law Section of the Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis and an active leader in local and state bar organizations. Her professional recognition includes being named to The Best Lawyers in America® (2017–2024), Missouri Super Lawyers (2021–2024), and receiving a Women’s Justice Award from Missouri Lawyers Weekly. Jennifer also holds an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell. She regularly speaks on family law topics and has helped shape family court procedures through her service on multiple committees.
Divorce

What Makes a Divorce Complex?

Hours Categories Divorce

Divorce can be challenging. From managing emotions to navigating legal matters, there are many aspects to consider. Let’s explore why divorce can be so complex. Emotional Turmoil Divorce is inherently an emotionally charged experience. Feelings of hurt, anger, and sadness can cloud judgment and hinder effective communication. Navigating these emotions while making critical decisions about the future can amplify the complexity of the process. Financial Issues Financial matters often add a layer of complexity to divorce proceedings. Dividing assets, liabilities, and determining financial support can be intricate tasks. Complications may arise from jointly owned or co-mingled properties, investments, retirement accounts, and businesses. Ensuring a fair and equitable distribution requires thorough financial assessment and negotiation. Child Custody and Support For couples with children, deciding custody and…

Dating and Divorce

6 Reason Not to Date While Going Through a Divorce

Hours Categories Divorce

So, you might be wondering, can you start dating while you’re in the middle of a divorce? Well, technically, you can. But let’s talk about why you might want to think twice about it. First off, it’s important to realize that dating during a divorce can make an already tough situation even tougher. Here’s why: In conclusion, while it might be tempting to jump back into the dating pool during your divorce, but it’s essential to consider the potential consequences. Take your time to focus on yourself and your family during this challenging time and save the dating adventures for later. Contact Family Ally If you have questions or need legal assistance regarding divorce or any other family law matter, please contact Jennifer Piper at 314-449-9800 to…

Keep Divorce Private

How Can I Keep My Divorce Private?

Hours Categories Divorce

Going through a divorce is never easy, but it’s crucial to protect your privacy throughout the process. Collaborative Divorce and Mediation provide ways to navigate this challenging time while ensuring that your personal information remains confidential. Let’s explore how these methods keep your divorce private. Confidentiality in Collaborative Divorce Protecting Privacy Through Mediation Types of Information Kept Private Ensuring Privacy Protection In Collaborative Divorce and Mediation, confidentiality is of utmost importance for safeguarding your privacy throughout the divorce process. By understanding what type of information remains confidential and working with professionals who uphold privacy standards, you can navigate divorce proceedings with confidence and discretion. Remember, your privacy is worth safeguarding, and Collaborative Divorce and Mediation offer the tools you need to preserve it during this…

Co-Parenting after divorce

Co-Parenting After Divorce: A Guide for St. Louis Families

Hours Categories Co-Parenting

When children are involved in a divorce it can make the divorce process even more difficult.  But once the legal proceedings are over, the real work of co-parenting begins. Here are six tips to help you and your ex navigate this challenging journey: 1. Avoid Assumptions It is easy to fall into the trap of assuming the worst about your ex-spouse but try to give them the benefit of the doubt. Keeping an open mind can lead to better communication and less conflict. 2. Maintain Professionalism Treat your co-parenting relationship like a business partnership. This means keeping communication respectful and avoiding sending angry emails or texts that could escalate tensions. 3. Be Respectful Demonstrate respect in all aspects of your interactions. This includes your communication…

Name of your firm

Family Ally: What’s In The Name Of Your Firm?

Hours Categories Divorce

When I set out to name my legal practice, I wanted something that truly reflected my values and the kind of support I aimed to provide to families. That’s why I turned to an online platform where creative minds come together to generate ideas. Among the suggestions, “Family Ally” stood out as the perfect fit. It wasn’t just a name; it captured the essence of what I wanted my practice to represent – a dedicated ally for families navigating legal challenges. From the beginning, I envisioned my practice as more than just a typical law firm. I wanted to offer comprehensive holistic support, including services like financial planning and therapy, to address the diverse needs of families. Although external challenges like the pandemic may have…

Divorce

The Value of a Financial Neutral in Divorce

Hours Categories Divorce

Divorce can be tough, especially when it comes to sorting out money matters. That’s where a neutral financial professional comes in. They’re like a trusted guide, helping both sides understand everything about their finances. Let’s talk about why having a financial neutral can make a significant difference in making sure everything’s fair and clear during a divorce. Transparency is Key When there is a financial neutral in the mix, there is no hiding assets or confusion about financial matters. The financial professional will facilitate open discussions, ensuring that you and your spouse understand the full scope of your financial situation. From properties to investments to debts, everything is laid out on the table for clear, transparent decision-making. Expertise Beyond Attorneys While lawyers provide legal expertise,…

Enforcement of custody

Enforcement of Custody

Hours Categories Child Custody

Enforcing a custody order can seem overwhelming and frustrating. Still, it’s vital to understand its crucial role in preserving your family’s stability and well-being. By taking action to enforce the order, you’re ensuring that your custody arrangement is honored. This means using legal tools to make sure everyone follows the rules. In serious cases, the court might even impose fines or jail time on the non-compliant party. Ultimately, enforcing custody orders is about protecting the child’s well-being and providing a stable upbringing. Enforcing Custody Orders: Enforcing custody arrangements can be challenging, but the court takes these matters seriously and will carefully review your case to determine the best course of action. By presenting evidence and documenting any violations of the custody agreement, you can strengthen…

child support

Enforcement of Child Support

Hours Categories Child Custody

Enforcing a child support order can sometimes be a challenging and frustrating process. However, it is crucial to remember that this step is essential for the well-being and stability of your family. By taking action to enforce the order, you are ensuring that your child receives the financial support they need. The enforcement process involves various legal mechanisms to enforce the order and hold the non-compliant party accountable. These mechanisms may include wage garnishment, property liens, or suspension of driver’s licenses. Additionally, the court may impose penalties such as fines or even imprisonment in extreme cases. By enforcing child support orders, the legal system aims to protect the rights and best interests of the child and provide financial stability for their upbringing. Enforcing Child Support…

child custody

Child Custody: A Guide to Modifications

Hours Categories Child Custody

Exploring adjustments to child custody or support arrangements can be complex, yet it’s a journey that you may need to undertake. If you’re contemplating a modification regarding child custody, this guide is designed to simplify the process. Modifying Child Custody Embracing Mediation and Collaboration Mediation and collaborative law offer more amicable solutions to handle modifications for you and your family. Many parenting plans advocate or even require using these methods before resorting to legal avenues. Contact Family Ally If you have questions or need legal assistance regarding child custody, child custody modifications or any other family law matter, please contact Jennifer Piper at 314-449-9800 to schedule a consultation. Family Ally is located at 130 S. Bemiston Ave., Suite 608, St. Louis, MO 63105.

Why I’m Participating in Divorce with Respect Week

Hours Categories Divorce

Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of a contentious divorce. As a child of parents who engaged in bitter litigation, I experienced the emotional toll it took on our family. The constant conflict, animosity, and tension created a toxic environment that left lasting scars on everyone involved. My own experiences fueled my passion for advocating for a better way to navigate divorce – one that prioritizes respect, empathy, and collaboration. What is Divorce with Respect Week? After over 20 years of practicing law, primarily in litigation-focused cases, I’ve come to realize that there is a better way to handle divorce. Divorce with Respect Week is a national initiative that aims to raise awareness about the Collaborative Divorce process and alternative dispute resolution methods….