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.
Child Custody Modification

St. Louis Child Custody Modification Lawyer

Hours Categories Child Custody

While child custody orders are final once entered by a St. Louis family law court, specific changes in one or both parent’s circumstances could serve as a basis for a modification of your custody order. It is crucial to consult with a dedicated family law attorney if you are interested in filing a request for a child custody modification. A knowledgeable St. Louis child custody modification lawyer can advise you on your available legal options and promote the best interests of your child or children. Contested Versus Uncontested Custody Modifications While some child custody disputes involve issues such as where the child will live when a parent wishes to move out of state, other modifications concern which parent the child will be with on any…

Child Custody Enforcement

St. Louis Child Custody Enforcement Lawyer

Hours Categories Child Custody

If a parent fails to comply with their child custody order, they could be held in contempt of court and face additional legal punishments through a family access motion. If you need help enforcing your current parenting time arrangement, a St. Louis child custody enforcement lawyer can provide effective legal representation. A family law attorney who is well-versed in the state’s child custody laws can explain the legal issues involved in your case and your options for filing a motion requesting enforcement of your arrangement.  Overview of Child Custody Arrangements in St. Louis There are two types of child custody to be aware of in St. Louis. Legal custody refers to a parent’s decision-making authority regarding the child’s health and well-being. On the other hand,…

Best interest of the child

How Does Missouri Determine the Best Interest of a Child?

Hours Categories Child Custody

The term “Best Interests of a Child” is commonly used in child custody cases in Missouri.  But how does the state determine what is in the best interest of your child? The process may seem complex, but let’s break it down for you. The 50-50 Presumption Missouri operates under a new statute that presumes a 50-50 custody arrangement. It presumes that both parents will have equal parenting time. There must be significant reasons to deviate from this. However, a court can consider other factors if there are questions about a 50-50 arrangement. Factors Considered by the Court The Missouri statute outlines eight crucial factors that the court examines: 1. Parental Wishes and Proposed Parenting Plan The court can consider the parents’ custody wishes. It can…

child support laws

5 Things To Know About Child Support In Missouri

Hours Categories Child Custody

If you find yourself wondering why you have to pay child support in Missouri, you’re not alone. This article is here to make things clearer for you. We’ll explore why child support exists and how it operates, breaking it down into simple terms. 1. Why Do You Have to Pay Child Support? In a nutshell, you must pay child support because this ensures your child’s lifestyle doesn’t change drastically when going between homes. The aim is to equalize their living conditions at each parent’s house. The purpose of child support is to assist with the child’s basic needs, such as food, housing, utilities, and clothing. 2. How Is Child Support Calculated in Missouri? Child support calculations in Missouri are based on the Form 14.  The…

child centered divorce

How Can I Have a Child-Centered Divorce?

Hours Categories Child Custody, Divorce

Going through a divorce is tough, especially when there are children involved. Choosing a child-centered divorce approach involves prioritizing your child’s needs over personal desires and conflicts. Here are some steps you can take to ensure your divorce is centered around the well-being of your children. Advantages of a Child-Centered Approach In the midst of divorce, choosing a child-centered approach requires commitment, collaboration, and a genuine focus on your child’s needs. By following these steps and involving professionals, you can navigate the challenging process with the best interests of your child at heart, fostering a healthier future for everyone involved. Contact Family Ally Today 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…

Collaborative Divorce

Why You Should Choose Collaborative Divorce

Hours Categories 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?

Hours Categories 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

Hours Categories 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?

Hours Categories 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

Hours Categories 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…