Divorce

My Best Divorce Advice

My Best Divorce Advice

Divorce

If you have been considering divorce, you have probably been asking people you know for their advice.  As a divorce professional, here is some of the best advice that I can offer and what I often tell my clients. How you approach your divorce can shape not only the outcome but also your ability to move forward. Below are practical steps that can help you to guide you through your divorce. 1. Treat Your Divorce Like a Business Deal Think of your divorce as a business deal. While emotions are a natural part of any divorce, letting your emotions control the process can lead to unnecessary conflict and higher costs. The mindset of your divorce as a business deal can help you make clearer decisions…

What is the Difference Between Mediation and Litigation?

What is the Difference Between Mediation and Litigation?

Divorce

When resolving a divorce or legal conflict, it is important to understand how mediation and litigation differ. Each process has its unique approach to handling disputes, and understanding these differences can help you feel more prepared to make the best decision for your situation. Mediation: An Amicable and Private Process Mediation is a private, amicable process guided by a neutral third party called a mediator. The mediator works with both sides to facilitate open discussions and find reasonable solutions. One key benefit of mediation is the cooperative nature of exchanging information. Instead of spending significant time and money hunting down records or documents, both parties typically share what’s needed more freely. The mediator’s role is to assist both parties equally, helping with tasks like gathering…

Why Is January the Start of Divorce Season?

Why Is January the Start of Divorce Season?

Divorce

January is often considered the unofficial start of divorce season, and there’s a good reason for it. After months of holiday gatherings, family events, and the stress of the season, many people feel that it is time to make significant changes in their lives come January. If you’ve been unhappy in your marriage, waiting until after the holidays to start the divorce process can offer a sense of relief. With a new year comes new possibilities, and many see it as the right time to begin the next chapter of their lives. The Holidays are Over For many, the holiday season is a time for family gatherings and celebrations. Even in difficult relationships, people often choose to delay decisions like divorce to preserve the peace…

Mediation and Court

Does Mediation Always Keep You Out of Court?

Divorce

Mediation is often seen as a peaceful alternative to a courtroom battle. But does it always keep you out of court? There can be some limitations in a mediation that are important to understand.  What is Mediation? Mediation is a process where a neutral third party, known as a mediator, helps you and your spouse to reach a mutually agreeable solution. It is often used in family law cases, including divorce, custody disputes, and other family-related matters and helps to resolve the case without going to court. Mandatory Mediation In some jurisdictions, such as St. Louis County, there is a mandatory mediation rule that requires completion of two hours of mediation before proceeding with court cases. While this rule aims to encourage settlements, two hours…

Divorce Harm my Children

Common Divorce Fear: Divorce Will Harm My Children

Divorce

One of the biggest fears you may have when considering divorce or separation from your partner is the impact it will have on your children. It is natural to worry that ending your relationship could harm them. However, it is important to know that divorce or separation doesn’t have to harm your children if you handle your separation thoughtfully and sensitively. Understand the Impact of Conflict Divorce or separation can negatively affect your children, but it largely depends on how you and your spouse manage it. If your separation is filled with anger, fighting, and negativity, it can be very harmful. Arguing in front of your children, speaking badly about the other parent in their presence, or creating tense situations during exchanges can leave lasting…

Expensive divorce custody case
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Your Fear Can Make Your Divorce or Custody Case More Expensive

Child Custody, Divorce

Divorce and Custody cases have lots of emotions and uncertainties. One of the most significant factors that can unintentionally increase the cost of your divorce or custody case is fear. When you act out of fear, your reactions can become irrational, leading to unnecessary conflicts and complications. Understanding how fear influences your behavior during a divorce or custody case can help you manage your emotions better and potentially save you a significant amount of money. How Fear Influences Divorce or Custody Case Costs When fear takes over, you might find yourself acting impulsively or making decisions that are not in your or your children’s best interest. Here’s how fear can manifest and escalate the cost of your divorce or custody case: How to Manage Your…

divorce fears

Common Divorce Fears:What Others Will Think

Divorce

Divorce is a significant life event that comes with a variety of emotions and challenges. One of the most common fears is the fear of what others will think. This can manifest in various ways, from worrying about friends and family’s opinions to concerns about how the community will view you. Let’s explore this common divorce fear and how to overcome it. The Fear of Filing One of the initial hurdles in the divorce process is the fear of filing for divorce. This is often tied to concerns about how your family and friends will react. Even though divorce is more common today, it still carries a stigma for many people. The idea of admitting to loved ones that your marriage is ending can feel…

Mediation in Divorce

Why Does Mediation Work In A Divorce?

Divorce

Are you looking for a way to resolve conflicts that addresses your needs and ensures a smoother path forward? Mediation might just be the answer you have been searching for. Let’s examine why this alternative dispute resolution method works so effectively. Tailored Solutions: In a mediation, you are not handed a one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, you actively participate in crafting a plan that suits your family’s unique circumstances. By discussing goals, interests, and reasons behind your and your spouse’s desires, you unearth deeper insights. Understanding motivations leads to more creative problem-solving. Abundance of Options: Unlike court proceedings, mediation isn’t bound by strict limitations. It is full of possibilities where you can explore various solutions. Whether it is property division, childcare arrangements, or financial matters, the flexibility…

Co-Parenting and Summer

8 Tips for Co-Parenting This Summer

Co-Parenting

As the temperatures rise and the school bells ring their final chime, summer heralds a season of change for co-parents. Whether you are a seasoned pro or new to the co-parenting game, ensuring a harmonious summer for you, your ex, and most importantly, your children, requires careful planning and communication. Here are 8 essential tips to help you move through the summer months with ease: By following these summer co-parenting tips, you can navigate the season with confidence and create lasting memories for your child. Remember, cooperation and communication are the cornerstones of successful co-parenting, ensuring that every summer is filled with warmth, joy, and cherished moments for your family. Contact Family Ally If you have questions or need legal assistance regarding co-parenting, divorce or…

Pregnant and divorce

Can You Divorce Your Spouse While Pregnant in Missouri?

Divorce

Divorce is a complicated process, especially when there’s a baby on the way. If you’re in Missouri and find yourself in this situation, you might be wondering about your options.  A Missouri law aims to protect children from being “bastardized,” which basically means ensuring they have legal parents. If a child is born outside of marriage, it’s considered a paternity case, even if you know who the father is. But if the child is born during the marriage, it falls under divorce law. Divorcing While Pregnant Now, if you’re pregnant and needing to get a divorce, things get a bit tricky. Technically, you can go through the divorce process, from filing your case to settling everything, except for one crucial step—getting the judge’s final approval….