Author: Jennifer Piper

Jennifer R. Piper attended the University of Missouri-Columbia where she earned a B.A. in political science, she then went on to receive her law degree from Saint Louis University School of Law. As an attorney, Jennifer has been distinguished by Missouri Lawyers Weekly as a Rising Star, Up and Coming Lawyer; she has been named to The Best Lawyers in America® 2017-2023 in the practice area of Family Law. Ms. Piper also recently received a Woman’s Justice Award from Missouri Lawyers Weekly in 2019 and recognized by Missouri Super Lawyers for 2021-2023. Bar Admissions Missouri, 2001 U.S. District Court Eastern District of Missouri, 2001 Illinois, 2002 (currently inactive)
Collaborative Divorce

Why You Should Choose Collaborative Divorce

Divorce

Collaborative Divorce is a divorce process that has gained popularity because it offers a more amicable and efficient way to navigate the divorce process versus the option of going to court. Here are some of the benefits of Collaborative Divorce: 1. Control and Privacy One of the primary advantages of opting for Collaborative Divorce is the increased level of control over the proceedings. Collaborative Divorce empowers you to have more say in the decisions that will shape your future. Unlike the public nature of courtroom proceedings, Collaborative Divorce offers a significant degree of privacy, preventing personal details and sensitive information from becoming public knowledge. This includes financial records, medical information, and other confidential aspects that you may not want to share publicly. 2. Open Communication…

Marriage is over now what

You Realize Your Marriage is Over..Now What?

Divorce

In most marriages, couples find themselves facing challenging periods.  For some those challenges lead you to believe that your relationship has reached its end. Despite the emotional turmoil, it’s crucial to approach the situation with thoughtfulness and care. Below are some steps to consider when you think your marriage is over. By following these guidelines and seeking professional guidance, you can approach the challenging journey of ending a marriage with greater clarity and understanding. Remember that each situation is unique, and it’s crucial to prioritize both emotional well-being and legal protection throughout this difficult process. 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 schedule a consultation. Family Ally is…

Feeling Lost During Divorce

How To Keep From Feeling Lost During Your Divorce

Divorce

The divorce process can often leave you feeling overwhelmed and disconnected.  However, Collaborative Divorce is a unique approach that goes beyond the traditional legal framework. By fostering a supportive and communicative environment, Collaborative Divorce aims to provide you with the tools and resources necessary to navigate the complexities of divorce without losing sight of your emotional stability. Staying Informed and Empowered In Collaborative Divorce, the emphasis is on keeping you informed and empowered throughout the journey. By fostering open communication and addressing the collaborative approach ensures that you are engaged and do not feel lost or isolated during this critical phase of your life. The Role of Neutral Support Professionals Collaborative Divorce involves the engagement of neutral professionals, such as a divorce coach, counselors or…

Divorce without court

Can I Get Divorced Without Going to Court?

Divorce

When people think of divorce, they often envision contentious courtroom battles, but the reality is quite different. You can get a divorce without ever setting foot in a courtroom.  It is important to understand that divorce does not have to equal a court battle.  Choosing the right divorce process can enable a respectful and amicable divorce. Dispelling the Misconception that Divorce Means Court It is a common misconception that divorce inevitably means going to court and engaging in an adversarial proceeding.  The reality is that this is not the case for most divorce cases. In fact, it’s entirely possible to get divorced without stepping into a courtroom, provided certain conditions are met. The Power of Agreements You and your spouse can agree on the terms…

Divorce Settlement Obstacles

6 Obstacles to Reaching a Divorce Settlement

Divorce

Reaching a settlement in a divorce case will always present some challenges along the way. There are some obstacles we often see that can be avoided if you know what they are. These obstacles can range from personal attitudes to complex emotional issues. Understanding the obstacles is the first step toward addressing them and ultimately achieving a successful divorce settlement. While reaching a divorce settlement is challenging, it’s possible to overcome obstacles with the right approach and support. Open communication, cooperation, and a commitment to finding common ground are key factors in reaching a successful divorce settlement. Additionally, the Collaborative Divorce process can provide valuable assistance in addressing emotional and interpersonal hurdles that may arise during divorce proceedings. Contact Family Ally If you have questions or need…

Father walking with his children during the holiday season.

7 Tips for Divorce and the Holidays

Child Custody

Divorce brings a whirlwind of emotions and challenges, and when the holiday season approaches, it can feel especially overwhelming. Whether you’re in the midst of a divorce or you’ve already finalized it, here are some tips for how to prepare for the holidays in a way that prioritizes your children’s well-being and helps you find a sense of peace during this time of change. Ultimately, the key to navigating the holidays after a divorce is to prioritize the well-being and emotional stability of your children. Keep lines of communication open with your co-parent, plan ahead, and be sensitive to your children’s needs and feelings during this time of transition. By doing so, you can help create a positive and enjoyable holiday experience for your family,…

Common Divorce Misconceptions

5 Common Divorce Misconceptions

Divorce

When it comes to divorce there can be a lot of misconceptions and misunderstandings about how the divorce process actually works. You may have heard stories from friends or family who went through a divorce, but it is only when you experience it firsthand that you understand how the process works. We hope to dispel some of the common myths surrounding divorce and hope to provide you with a clearer picture of what to expect. 1. Divorce = A Big Fight One of the most prevalent misconceptions about divorce is that it has to be a big, acrimonious battle. Many people believe that if they hire attorneys, the process will inevitably turn into a hostile showdown. In reality, divorce can be handled amicably through Collaborative Divorce…

Child Temporary Power of Attorney

Child Custody

When children are injured or become ill, their parents or legal guardians have the right to make decisions regarding their medical care. In some cases, permission from a parent or legal guardian is necessary before a doctor can pursue certain treatment options. This situation can become complicated when the child is not currently in the care of a parent or guardian. If the child’s caretaker is not their legal guardian, they may lack the right to make these decisions, which could lead to a delay in treatment that could prove harmful to the child. A temporary delegation to an attorney in fact is a legal document that temporarily grants someone the power to make decisions regarding a child’s healthcare. These can be as short as…

A parent holding the hand of a young child with a backpack

The Benefits of Hiring a Parenting Coordinator in Missouri: A Guide for Co-Parents

Child Custody

As a co-parent, navigating the complexities of shared custody can be challenging. It is not uncommon for disagreements and conflicts to arise when making decisions about child custody and visitation. One solution that may help to resolve these issues is to hire a parenting coordinator. In this article, I will provide a comprehensive guide to the benefits of hiring a parenting coordinator in Missouri, including what a parenting coordinator is, how they differ from a mediator, the legal aspects of parenting coordination, what to look for when choosing a parenting coordinator, how to work effectively with them, and tips for navigating the parenting coordination process in Missouri. Introducing the Role of a Parenting Coordinator in Missouri A parenting coordinator is a neutral third-party professional who…

Get Ready for the Divorce: Practical Steps to Prepare Yourself Legally and Emotionally

Divorce

Divorce is never easy, but there are steps you can take to make the process go more smoothly. Knowing the legal processes involved and preparing yourself emotionally will help you to prepare for the divorce and move forward with your life. It’s important to take the time to educate yourself about the legal issues, such as division of assets, custody arrangements, and spousal support. Additionally, it’s essential to develop emotional coping strategies to help you get through the emotional turmoil of divorce. Whether you are facing an uncontested or contested divorce, these steps will help you prepare for the divorce and move forward. Understand the legal process of divorce Legal separation and divorce are both valid legal proceedings for ending a marriage. Legal separation is…