The Difference Between a Contested and Uncontested Divorce

/0 Comments/in /by

Divorce is a difficult and emotional process, regardless of whether it is contested or uncontested. However, the type of divorce can have a significant impact on the overall process and outcome. In this article, we will discuss the key differences between contested and uncontested divorce, as well as the pros and cons of each type.

What is a contested divorce?

A contested divorce is one in which the parties cannot agree on one or more of the terms of the divorce, such as property division, alimony, or child custody. In these cases, the parties will need to go to court and have a judge make a decision on the disputed issues. Contested divorces can be lengthy and costly, as they often require multiple court appearances and the involvement of attorneys.

What is an uncontested divorce?

On the other hand, an uncontested divorce is one in which the parties have reached a complete agreement on all issues related to the divorce. In these cases, the parties can file for divorce without going to court. Uncontested divorces are generally quicker and less expensive than contested divorces, as they do not require the involvement of a judge or attorneys.

Advantages of a contested divorce

One of the main advantages of a contested divorce is that a judge will make the final decision on any disputed issues. This can be beneficial for parties who cannot come to an agreement themselves, as it ensures that a neutral third party will make a fair decision. Additionally, in a contested divorce, both parties have the opportunity to present evidence and argue their case in court, which can be helpful in situations where one party may be trying to hide assets or deceive the other party.

Advantages of an uncontested divorce

The advantage of an uncontested divorce is that it is generally faster and less expensive than a contested divorce. Since the parties have already reached an agreement on all issues, there is no need for a judge to make a decision, and the divorce can be finalized quickly. Additionally, uncontested divorces are often less emotionally taxing, as the parties have already come to a resolution and do not need to go through the stress of a court battle.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the difference between contested and uncontested divorce is that in contested divorce the parties cannot agree on one or more of the terms of the divorce, and in an uncontested divorce, the parties have reached a complete agreement on all issues related to the divorce. Each type has its own set of pros and cons and it is best for the couple to weigh these factors before deciding on which type of divorce to pursue. It is always recommended to seek legal advice and guidance from a divorce lawyer to navigate the process as smoothly as possible and help you understand your rights and options.

Mike

Find top rated attorneys and law firms profiles with Find Attorneys Directory, the best and free online attorney directory. Guest bloggers can also publish their articles here as other bloggers are doing.

What to Look for in a Child Custody and Visitation Attorney?

/0 Comments/in /by

If you are going to hire a Los Angeles Child Custody & Visitation Attorney, then you will need to ensure that you find someone who has all the right skills for the job. This article discusses a few of the key skills that you will need to look for.

Common types of family law cases that involve child custody and visitation

The basic purpose of the Family Court is to protect children. When one parent is abusive, the court can decide to separate the child from that parent. In other cases, the family court can make a decision to terminate the other parent’s parental rights.

If one of the parents is absent, the court may appoint a guardian for the child. A guardian may be a family member, friend, or trusted individual.

The court can also award the other parent visitation rights. This can include the right to obtain information about the child’s school, medical treatment, and extracurricular activities.

Parents are very concerned with the well-being of their children. However, if the other parent is not paying child support, the parent cannot stop the other parent from visiting.

Some common types of family law cases that involve child custody and visitation are joint custody and sole custody. Joint custody involves two parents sharing the decision-making responsibilities for the child.

Sole custody involves only one parent with the authority to make decisions for the child. This can include the right to receive information about the child’s education, health care, and religious upbringing.

The most common reasons why a parent loses their parental rights are abuse or negligent behavior. Other reasons include separation and divorce.

Life Family Law Group has the best child custody and visitation attorney in Los Angeles

If you are involved in a child custody dispute, a Los Angeles child custody lawyer can help you keep your children’s best interests in mind. This is important because family relationships are a fundamental part of life.

Child custody is a legal term that defines a parent’s right to make decisions regarding the care of a child. It can be sole custody or joint custody. A judge will determine which type of custody is appropriate for your situation. In most cases, joint custody is the most common option.

However, it’s not always easy to work out child custody agreements. It’s a good idea to hire a Los Angeles child custody attorney if you are going through a divorce. He or she will be able to assist you with mediation and trial. The attorneys at Life Family Law Group have extensive knowledge of the law and can help you reach the best possible outcome.

Child support is also a major concern in divorces. This is generally paid by the non-custodial parent to the custodial parent. Generally, the formula used to calculate this amount is complex.

Visitation is a specialized area of family law. If the parents have not been able to reach an agreement on the custody of their children, they can pursue visitation rights.

Key skills to look for in a child custody and visitation attorney

A child custody lawyer can be a big help to you if you are facing a custody battle. They can guide you through the legal process, negotiate your child support rates, and prepare documents for you for a flat fee. However, before you can start looking for a good lawyer, you must be familiar with what to look for.

The most important thing to know about a child custody case is that it can be a stressful and emotional experience. But you can work to minimize the impact. Identifying a stable living environment for you and your children is a good place to start.

When it comes to child custody, there are many different scenarios. Some of the key aspects are:

You’ll want to find a lawyer who’s experienced in the area. Many lawyers can work as solo practitioners, or you can choose a large firm. Your attorney will have to know the law in your state, as well as a wide variety of other skills to make your case successful.

Often, a child’s best interest is the court’s top priority. It’s not unusual for a judge to consider the child’s health, safety, and education needs when making a decision.

Despite a child’s best interest being the primary consideration, the judge will also take into account the parents’ financial resources. In particular, the parent who is unable to provide for his or her child may be found to be in violation of the court’s orders.

Mike

Find top rated attorneys and law firms profiles with Find Attorneys Directory, the best and free online attorney directory. Guest bloggers can also publish their articles here as other bloggers are doing.

How To Divorce a Narcissist and Win

/0 Comments/in /by

Narcissists are self-centered, arrogant, and boastful. They can also not empathize or tune in emotionally to another’s needs, which increases the likelihood that your soon-to-be ex will seek vengeance through the courts or elsewhere.

If you are divorcing narcissists, do not expect them to go quietly into the night.

You must accept that you will be the one who files for a divorce, and you must not back down from this decision. There are numerous reasons why a narcissist will not divorce you, the most important of which is that they will never let go of someone they have control over.

Divorcing a narcissist is a difficult daunting task that drains one financially, emotionally, and physically. However, if you employ the proper strategies, you can win.

Strategies to employ when divorcing a narcissist

So, when divorcing a narcissist, you must be calculated and logical and have a solid divorce strategy. Hire a divorce attorney in New Jersey, find a safe place to stay, and make sure you have enough money.

First and foremost, maintain your calm. Allow nothing that your narcissistic spouse says to affect you, and do not think about giving them a second chance.

When going through a divorce with a narcissist, you must be prepared to face lies, manipulation and attempt to take control. Here are some strategies for dealing with a narcissist.

  1. Create a clear strategy

Divorce from narcissist in New Jersey is very common. But first and foremost, you must have a well-defined strategy. A clear, strong, and effective strategy. Prepare to go on offense and have your leverage at the ready. Do your homework. Do your research. Have everything you require to incentivize the other party to reach an agreement with you.

Whatever the situation is, your objective is to persuade the narcissist to participate in a resolution discussion with you. It may seem illogical, but if you want them to come to an excellent, easy conclusion, you will need to incentivize them. The leverage can take many forms, including understanding what motivates them, such as money, custody of the children, or not looking bad, which could be a source of embarrassment.

  1. Maintain your composure

Maintain emotional control because you are playing right into their hands if you do not. They aim for you to lose your cool. Then whatever manipulation they are attempting to pull works. They will win as soon as you permit them to. This is one piece of advice that a divorce lawyer for men or women will give you.

Divorce from a narcissist is one of the most challenging things you will ever have to do. With the divorce, at least there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Just keep in mind that you can escape relatively unscathed.

  1. Keep your focus on the children

Most of us have heard about divorce and its effects on children, but the emotional strain a narcissistic divorce can take on children is typically far more significant. As a result, you must concentrate on your children during this time.

Please do not feel afraid to tell them the truth, but avoid calling the other parent names or making disparaging remarks. Assure them that this divorce is not their responsibility, no matter what your narcissistic partner claims.

Explain your side to the kids after you have calmed down and gathered your facts. Do not stoop to the level of the narcissist and take the higher road, even if it is complicated at the moment.

  1. Get legal representation

Divorce preparation is critical, especially for a narcissist who will always desire to be a step ahead of you. They want to win and retain control over you. Things to do to prepare for divorce include, Seeking legal counsel or representation and devising a step-by-step strategy. Everything, especially your interactions with your spouse, should be documented.

You will be able to stay calm and factual if you are prepared and have a strong game plan developed with the assistance of a lawyer.

  1. Organize your documents

When completing paperwork or working with your lawyer, you will need a lot of divorce paperwork. Your marriage certificate, lists of debts and assets, and life insurance are some documents that will come in handy. When deciding to leave a narcissist, you should have these items ready as soon as possible. This prevents them from concealing assets, attempting to manipulate you, or changing ownership. Remember, narcissist craves power and does not care if they destroy you emotionally or financially.

Conclusion

Whatever happens during your case, never act as if you have lost care about losing. Your narcissistic spouse takes pleasure in your misery. Give a narcissist no satisfaction. Create an emotional support group. Share your annoyances with them and only them. If you require the assistance of another person, hire a clinical psychologist who is well-versed in divorce court proceedings.

Mike

Find top rated attorneys and law firms profiles with Find Attorneys Directory, the best and free online attorney directory. Guest bloggers can also publish their articles here as other bloggers are doing.

Difference Between a Divorce Lawyer and Family Lawyer

/0 Comments/in /by

There are lots of different types of lawyers, all working on behalf of their clients to reach an agreeable legal conclusion. These lawyers operate within different sectors of the legal system, with various subsets branching off of each. Legal issues between family members fall into the sector of family law, which includes divorce.

What is Family Law?

Family law is one of the biggest sectors of the legal system, consisting of finance law, child law and matrimonial law. Anyone who is seeking to take legal action against another family member will likely consult with and then hire a family law lawyer to represent their wishes.

Family law works to protect the rights of all involved and offer fair representation to both parties. It also seeks to represent people who are involved but do not get a say in the negotiations, such as a divorcing couple’s children. It is a busy sector of the legal system because there are so many domestic legal disputes filed.

How Does Divorce Fit Into Family Law?

Divorce is a subset of family law because pursuing a divorce marks a legal conflict between two people who are legally members of the same family. As such, discussing and negotiating a fair arrangement requires both parties to hire a lawyer well-versed in handling familial issues. Most divorce lawyers are family law lawyers who specialize in divorce.

What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?

A family law lawyer works with a client to advocate their case, financial or personal, against another member of that same family. This could be representing one spouse in a battle over financial assets, or it could be regarding custody over children or adoption. Family law specifically centres around the family that two people have created together by getting married. In the event of a breakdown, the family law lawyer will handle matters as delicately as possible.

A family law lawyer will be trained to handle important domestic issues that arise when two family members are engaged in a legal battle. Their job is to represent the client who hired them and give them sound legal advice to help bolster their case. Family law lawyers attempt to negotiate these cases outside of court to encourage an amicable settlement, but if that is not possible, they will then represent their client before a judge.

What Does a Divorce Lawyer Do?

A divorce lawyer has exactly the same aim as a family law lawyer: to negotiate a fair and justified settlement for their client. As previously mentioned, divorce is a part of the overarching family law, so a divorce lawyer will dedicate themselves to those same standards. Most often, they are hired to help a couple split their finances and assets in the event of separation, representing them as they legally split from each other.

A divorce lawyer will also advocate during out-of-court meetings in an attempt to settle, but these meetings can progress into court if, again, no settlement is reached. There is a specific focus on

divorce, which allows the lawyer to put aside other broader aspects of family law. They will be able to compare relevant cases based on their experience and work within the divorce subset to help separating spouses settle their legal and financial grievances.

What Are the Main Differences?

While divorce lawyers are almost always family law lawyers as well, there aren’t too many differences to take note of, though some stand out:

  • Family law lawyers have multiple responsibilities, divorce lawyers focus solely on divorce.
  • Divorce lawyers specialize in handling legal and financial matters between two spouses, family law lawyers handle matters pertaining to the whole family, such as custody of children.
  • Not all family law lawyers will choose to handle divorce.
  • Family law firms employ divorce lawyers, but divorce law firms will only hire those specializing specifically in divorce.

Which Should You Hire?

It’s important to remember that because of what it pertains, divorce law is part of the family law framework. So, when you hire a divorce lawyer, you are most likely hiring a family law lawyer. If you want to see a nuance between the two, you should compare what a family law firm and a divorce law firm will offer you.

If your legal issues with your spouse are completely financial, a specialized divorce lawyer will be able to help you negotiate a settlement. However, if the problem pertains to custody or visitation of children, a family law lawyer is the more comprehensive choice because they are guaranteed to have specialized in those issues.

Mike

Find top rated attorneys and law firms profiles with Find Attorneys Directory, the best and free online attorney directory. Guest bloggers can also publish their articles here as other bloggers are doing.

How much does divorce mediation cost in Calgary

/0 Comments/in /by

The process of getting a divorce is usually very upsetting for everyone involved. However, it’s not always necessary to engage in a protracted legal struggle that only serves to increase the aggravation and expenses.

Divorce mediation has been effective for many couples in resolving the contentious and difficult questions that arise during a divorce, such as the equitable distribution of assets and debts, child custody and visitation arrangements, child support, and spousal maintenance. Divorce is an expensive process, and mediation might help them cut costs. It’s a good idea to examine the average rates of divorce mediators and consider the variables that may affect the final cost of your split.

How Does it Work?

There is a growing recognition that divorce mediation is helpful for couples to move through the process more efficiently, with less emotional and financial fallout, and more amicably.

When divorce mediation is used early on before any papers are filed, it is not uncommon for couples to be able to settle their differences, settle for an uncontested divorce case, and finalize it without the need for divorce lawyers. However, mediation can be helpful at any stage of the divorce process, up until the trial itself, and even after the divorce is finalized if problems persist.

Even if you end up saving money through mediation, the process may not be free. Multiple variables affect the final cost, including how many issues you have with your partner, the concerns with finances, and a variety of factors that will determine whether you choose private mediation, court-sponsored mediation at a reduced cost or no cost, or community mediation through a nonprofit group.

Private Divorce Mediation Average Cost

The fee for a private mediator or mediation service can range from $3,000 to $8,000, depending on a number of criteria (usually divided with your spouse).

What Fees Are Involved In Mediation Services?

There are two main methods in which mediation firms or private mediators will present their pricing: hourly, per session (which might be anything from a half day to a full day or even two hours) or for a set amount of time.

The per-hour rate also takes a variety of factors into account. These include the following listed below:

1) Are they a divorce lawyer?

The highest rates for divorce mediation are typically between $250 and $500 an hour, and these are typically charged by lawyer mediators who have enough experience and training in mediation in addition to expertise in the field of family law.

2) Is the mediator a specialist in some other field?

In addition to their mediation training, many professionals in the field of family law also hold additional credentials, such as those of a licensed family and marriage therapist or a certified financial analyst. Their hourly rate for divorce mediation services ranges from $100 to $350 hourly, depending on their level of experience and education.

You can indeed cut down on expenses by hiring a mediator who isn’t a divorce lawyer, but that shouldn’t be the deciding factor. When a divorce lawyer is the most suitable to inform the parties of their legal rights and options and examine possible agreements for unintended legal consequences, attorney-mediators may be the most useful.

However, mediators who are financial experts such as licensed divorce financial analysts may be the top pick for those with extensive assets. On the other hand, mediators with counselling backgrounds may be the ideal choice for spouses who need help finding workable ideas and improving communication.

What Factors Affect The Overall Expenses in Private Mediation?

How can you estimate costs for mediation unless you use a service that offers a fixed rate? Some mediators will give you a ballpark figure depending on the time commitment and difficulty of your divorce. Instances where:

– The couple owns property or some assets which will be difficult to divide, such as a family business or retirement accounts;

– The parents are at odds over parenting arrangements as well as child custody or overpaying expenses for their child that aren’t covered by guidelines in child support or other legal necessities

– And/or a spouse is refusing to pay alimony to the other.

The mediator who is most qualified to help you will depend on the complexity and amount of the aforementioned issues that you need to be resolved.

Moreover, the degree of collaboration or disagreement in the relationship, in particular, may influence the length in terms of reaching a settlement through mediation or even if it will be successful for you.

Mike

Find top rated attorneys and law firms profiles with Find Attorneys Directory, the best and free online attorney directory. Guest bloggers can also publish their articles here as other bloggers are doing.

What Are the Benefits of Hiring a Family Lawyer Calgary?

/0 Comments/in /by

When you’re dealing with divorce, child custody, child support, spousal support, or other family law issues, it can be tempting to represent yourself. If you have the time and the skills, it might even seem like saving some money would be worth the risk of getting your case wrong and paying more in the long run. However, if you really want to make sure that you get your best possible outcome under the circumstances, you’ll benefit from working with a skilled family lawyer rather than representing yourself in court.

1) Legal Experts Will Help You Avoid Mistakes

A family lawyer will be able to give you personalized, detailed advice about the best course of action for your specific situation. A good lawyer will work to keep you out of court as much as possible and help ensure that, should you need legal assistance, everything is prepared in advance and thoroughly. A family lawyer can also help you plan for future unforeseen events, like dealing with a business partnership or raising children with divorced parents. It’s crucial to speak with an attorney if you are considering adopting a child.

2) An Expert Has Seen Everything Before

After years in practice, family lawyers have seen just about everything. That’s why they’re uniquely qualified to deal with anything you might come across in your divorce proceedings.

This includes:

  • Legal nuances that arise when the property is held jointly
  • Quandaries involving mental and physical capacity
  • Determining the proper visitation schedule for grandparents
  • Navigating contested custody cases
  • Understanding how alimony and child support should be calculated

Remember, it’s not easy to go through a divorce or separation. You deserve someone who understands what you’re going through, can anticipate any potential issues and will work diligently on your behalf.

3) Lawyers Can Save You Money

For many people, hiring a family lawyer is absolutely necessary to properly navigate and protect their interests. A lawyer can help you determine the best course of action to take in your family law case by ensuring that you do not risk jeopardizing your own finances or future well-being. A qualified lawyer can also make sure that if there are any children involved, they are being properly cared for while their parents work out the particulars. Some lawyers even offer free consultations so you don’t have to pay anything upfront. Commonly referred to as divorce attorneys, these specialists know all about divorce proceedings from start to finish, which means they’re able to effectively guide you through every step of the process.

4) Lawyers Keep You Out of Court

Having the right representation can help you stay out of court. Lawyers are expensive and if you are up against an attorney who knows what they are doing, it could result in tens of thousands, or even hundreds of thousands, worth of fees in addition to the legal fees. If you have hired an attorney who specializes in family law, they will be well versed in the intricacies and subtleties that make up family law disputes. And they’ll know which battles to pick and which ones not to fight, based on their knowledge of case precedent as well as their understanding of the judge assigned to your case.

5)Takes The Load Off Your Chest

Finding yourself in the middle of a messy family law issue can be exhausting. Sorting out custody arrangements, making sure your property and debt are divided fairly, and figuring out how to care for your children, it’s enough to make anyone break down into tears. Knowing you don’t have to go through it alone is one less stressor you’ll have to deal with. Having a professional who knows the intricacies of family law on your side will take some weight off your chest, so you can focus on what really matters-your kids.

6) A Family Lawyer Can Help You Heal From the Divorce

After you’ve been through a divorce, you need to figure out how to start your life over. Luckily, hiring a family lawyer can make the process easier. A family lawyer has the knowledge and experience needed to address any of your questions and concerns. This includes deciding what parenting arrangement is best for your children and ensuring that they are supported throughout this process. A family lawyer will also be able to help with all legal issues surrounding the divorce such as spousal support, child support, division of property, and other financial matters.

Hire a Family Lawyer for Success

The above list includes just some of the many benefits that hiring a family lawyer can provide. A qualified attorney will have the experience, knowledge, and ability to protect your rights and interests in your family law case. In addition, if you do not hire an attorney for your divorce or child custody proceedings, you may be at risk of taking less than you deserve from the divorce settlement.

Mike

Find top rated attorneys and law firms profiles with Find Attorneys Directory, the best and free online attorney directory. Guest bloggers can also publish their articles here as other bloggers are doing.

Infidelity in America – Why Do People Cheat?

/0 Comments/in /by

There are signs your spouse could be cheating and you can ask any private investigator in the United States what keeps them busy on a regular basis and pretty much every one of them will reference infidelity investigations. It’s a mainstay of the industry that won’t be changing anytime soon, if ever.

Private investigators hear stories all the time, though mostly just from the person who is the victim of marital infidelity. They don’t always hear the reasons for one person cheating in a relationship, but certain facts often rise to the surface over time.

So why do people cheat? Why do they hurt those they claim to love? Why do they risk their happy lives for the purposes of instant gratification?

There are many reasons, of course, but there are ones that pop up more frequently than others. Let’s look at some of the top reasons Americans cheat on their spouses, as indicated in a 2019 survey that was published in Psychology Today.

The survey asked 500 cheaters why they had engaged in a relationship outside of their marriage. Here are some of the top responses:

  1. They Fell Out of Love. This was the top answer on this 2019 survey of cheating partners, with 77 percent saying they simply didn’t love their husband or wife any more and were looking for those feelings of love and care from others.
  2. Nearly three-quarters of respondents (74 percent) said they cheated out of boredom and that they needed some excitement in their life. It’s noted by those conducting the survey that men gave this reason for cheating more often than women did.
  3. Feelings of Neglect. In the reverse of the previous response, more women than men gave this reason for cheating on their spouses. Feeling a lack of attention from their spouse, this answer was chosen by 70 percent of respondents to the survey.
  4. Situation Forces. This is simply to say that a husband or wife cheated as a result of a situation that presented itself that they weren’t expecting. Maybe they were in a bar and one thing led to another, etc. This answer was also chosen by 70 percent of survey respondents.
  5. A Self-Esteem Boost. More than half (57 percent) of respondents said they cheated on their husband or wife to make themselves feel better and more desirable. They needed a boost to their self esteem.

This full 2019 survey and accompanying Psychology Today story can be referenced here.

There are more reasons for cheating that are included in the article referenced above, including sexual desire, anger related issues and lack of commitment to one’s spouse. But we thought we’d just mention the top five for our purposes here today.

Regardless of the reason or reasons a husband or wife cheats in a marriage, it can have often debilitating consequences for everyone involved.

If you suspect your spouse is cheating on you, it’s a good idea to have a professional private investigator look into the matter for you.

Gather the proof and then you can make an informative and knowledgeable decision about what’s best for you, your marriage and your life moving forward.

This article is written by Henry, owner of Aces Private investigations Tampa.

Mike

Find top rated attorneys and law firms profiles with Find Attorneys Directory, the best and free online attorney directory. Guest bloggers can also publish their articles here as other bloggers are doing.

How to Tell Kids About Divorce?

/0 Comments/in /by

How to Tell Your Kids You’re Getting a Separation or Divorce

When you and your partner are certain of taking a divorce or separation, it is vital to consider how and when to communicate with your children. Divorce is stressful nowadays, and having two children and contemplating separation makes it much more difficult. Divorce is a difficult experience for children, and seeing them separated from their parents may be incredibly hurtful.

Brisbane Family Lawyers is one of the most experienced lawyers that can help you conquer all of your difficulties and address them with your children and family.

  1. Take your time announcing your choice, and don’t rush into it:

Divorce is not a sudden decision. You and your ex-partner were undoubtedly aware that things were not going well and that your relationship was deteriorating, even if you attempted to repair the marriage. In most cases, this is how it happens – it’s a process that culminates with the major choice.

Don’t tell anyone you’re getting a divorce right away. Spend at least one day with your children as a family. This will surprise them, so take advantage of the opportunity to make them happy before it happens.

  1. Prepare your remarks:

Rather than saying something immediately, it is always better to prepare a plan. Children have pure spirits, and seeing their parents divorced can be tough and emotionally damaging.

Make a strategy, organize your holiday plans, and contact a counselor to address your children’s issues.

  1. Do Everything Together:

It is always beneficial to never let youngsters bear all the weight independently. It doesn’t matter who is to blame for the divorce – you’re all in this together.

For the children, parents are equal, and instead of breaking the news alone and blaming the divorce, other people can emotionally harm children. So, with complete support and love, break the news to them and explain the cause of the divorce. Allow your children to express their thoughts and assist them in clearing their vision once they grasp the cause of the divorce.

  1. Explaining the reasons for the divorce:

It is neither essential nor appropriate for you to discuss the particular reasons for your divorce. Your children, on the other hand, will be intrigued as to why this is happening. Mature children will comprehend why their lives will change. So, while you don’t want to provide personal details, be ready to present a general picture without apportioning blame. “We thought it wouldn’t come to this, but we can’t seem to mend our relationship.” “We each have distinct goals in life.” “We enjoy each other and want to remain friends, but we are no longer in love.” Recognize that these are adult issues that your children, even if they are intelligent and mature, will not grasp.

  1. Leave the Important Decisions to Them:

If your children are mature enough, they will want to participate in this procedure. They may want to pick who they reside with. However, encouraging people to make this option is not the same as giving them a say.

This is something you and your ex-partner should discuss.

If your children are mature and younger, it is even more critical that you make this choice for them. Let them decide what they want.

  1. All of your children should be there when you tell them:

You may believe that if you have older kids, they would understand why you and your husband are splitting. You may feel more at ease informing them while keeping the child stress-free. It would be best if you did not do so.

It’s preferable to have this discussion with the entire extended family present. If you have more than one child, they will support each other. Don’t take it away from them by making one of them cope with the grief alone when you instruct them not to speak to their brother or sister.

  1. Prepare for reactions and be ready to deal with them:

Every kid will react differently to the separation announcement. Some people may scream immediately but then pretend as if they didn’t hear anything. Their method of thought is to ignore this truth. Things fall into place. Other youngsters may continue to change the topic. They may rarely listen. Sometimes individuals may get emotionally unstable and weep for weeks. Others will not display emotion; instead, they will hide it deep within.

When notifying your children about your divorce, you should be prepared for these reactions. What will you be required to do? Be there for your children. This is the period when they require your assistance the most.

  1. Allow them some time to acclimatize to the news:

It’ll still take a couple of days for you and your kids to adapt to such a significant shift, and although you may be comfortable in the destiny you envisage for them, it will take a bit of time to see that potential unfold. Meanwhile, remain fully present in the moment and soothing. Mimicking your healing process over time will assist them in adapting and recovering.

Contact the right experienced one!

Central Coast Family Lawyers are competent attorneys who always back your choice and explain it to your children. Some decisions are upsetting and require time to digest, but the proper lawyer can point you in the correct direction.

Mike

Find top rated attorneys and law firms profiles with Find Attorneys Directory, the best and free online attorney directory. Guest bloggers can also publish their articles here as other bloggers are doing.

What To Ask Divorce Lawyer at First Meeting

/0 Comments/in /by

What To Ask Your Divorce Lawyer at the First Meeting

Hiring a divorce lawyer comes with many benefits — legal expertise, complete divorce paperwork, and help with asset division and custody agreements.  When you’re looking for an attorney, you may wonder, “how do I find the best divorce lawyer near me?” By asking the right questions, you can find the best attorney to help you navigate your divorce process quickly and smoothly. Here are some must-ask questions during your first meeting with your potential divorce lawyer:

Should I Communicate With My Spouse?

Letting go of all the time you’ve spent with your spouse can be challenging. You may want to continue speaking during the divorce to help you build a friendship after the divorce. Communicating directly with your soon-to-be ex-partner isn’t always advisable as it can impact and derail the process.

Talk to your lawyer about the extent of communication you should maintain. They’ll draw on their experience to guide you on whether to maintain a personal relationship. Your lawyer can explain the attorney-client relationship, so you’re on the same page about attorney-client privilege.

You can ask your lawyer for advice if you’re leaving a toxic marriage or having trouble communicating amicably with your spouse. They’ll suggest ways to diffuse conflict if you want to handle the divorce out of court.

How Will the Divorce Impact the Kids?

Every parent wants a divorce to go as smoothly as possible to lessen its impact on the children. Ask your lawyer about their opinion on sole custody and joint custody. While you may think that sole custody is the best solution, it may not be ideal for you. Your lawyer will weigh factors like your spouse’s parental fitness and your kids’ ages to determine the best arrangement for you and your children.

You can inquire about their opinion on child support. The right attorney can provide figures based on your kids’ needs and lifestyles. This can prevent drastic lifestyle changes for the children and improve their feelings about the divorce.

Who Will Handle the Case?

Ask this question if you’ve approached a law firm instead of an individual lawyer. Sometimes the lawyer you meet with may not be the one to take your case. Ask to meet with whoever will be handling your case to discuss your case briefly.

If your case is complicated, it may be assigned to a team of lawyers instead of an individual. This is the case when spouses can’t agree on divorce terms, when there are many assets to be divided, and when both parties want sole custody of their children. If this is your situation, ask to meet all the team members assigned to your case. Your future is in their hands, so you must get acquainted before moving forward.

How Will We Communicate?

Regular communication is key to getting the best possible outcome from a divorce process. Your attorney should offer updates, and you should reach them with your updates too.

Before hiring anyone, ask about your lawyer’s preferred mode of communication. They may prefer calls, face-to-face meetings, emails, or video calls. If you prefer face-to-face meetings and they prefer emails, they may not be the best fit for you.

You should be comfortable with your attorney’s mode of communication, frequency, and responsiveness. There’s too much riding on a divorce’s outcome to risk going into the process without covering all the necessary bases.

How Much Will the Divorce Cost?

Knowing the lawyer’s fees allows you to budget for your divorce. Ask your lawyer for a complete breakdown of their charges before hiring them

The right attorney will explain if they charge by the hour and whether they need a retainer fee. They can provide a general estimate of the overall cost to help you prepare better. Note that you may spend more or less depending on your case’s complexity and the time it takes for you and your spouse to reach an agreement.

It’s Time to Find the “Best Divorce Lawyer Near Me”

Googling “best divorce lawyer near me” will leave you with many potential options. You should schedule consultations and ask the right questions to find a perfect choice for your case. Ask about the best way to communicate with your spouse and how to minimize the divorce’s impact on the kids.

Confirm whether you’ll work with the lawyer you meet, as they may not always be in charge of your case. Don’t forget to ask for clarification on their ideal mode of communication and fees.

Mike

Find top rated attorneys and law firms profiles with Find Attorneys Directory, the best and free online attorney directory. Guest bloggers can also publish their articles here as other bloggers are doing.

Do I Need a Separation Agreement in Maryland?

/0 Comments/in /by

Why You Need a Separation Agreement?

Are you considering separation but do not want a divorce? There are legal steps you should take to protect yourself and your children. An Annapolis Divorce lawyer can help you realize your options and navigate the legal process.

Unlike the majority of states, Maryland does not have anything called legal separation. This does not, however, mean that Maryland does not address the matter of separation, as couples might seek a limited divorce or reach a separation agreement. It can be confusing, but learning more about what a separation agreement can offer you is an important first step in the divorce process. If you are heading toward divorce, it’s time to consult with an experienced Annapolis separation agreements attorney.

Choosing to Separate

There are different reasons that spouses decide to separate without seeking a divorce. First, if both spouses do not mutually consent to a divorce, the only other option for a no-fault divorce in Maryland is to live apart for 12 months or longer. This means living in separate houses and not having a sexual relationship. If you want a divorce and your spouse might not consent in writing, you might want to begin the separation period as soon as possible.

There are other reasons why spouses might separate but not seek a divorce, including:

  • Financial reasons, including benefits, taxes, or insurance coverage
  • Religious beliefs against divorce
  • Believing you might reconcile or using separation as a “test run” for a divorce

Separations can be reversed at any time, as the spouses can simply revoke their separation agreement in most cases. However, if you obtain an absolute divorce, it is final, and you are no longer married. Sometimes, people want or need to try living apart before they fully end the marriage.

Protecting Your Rights in a Separation

Separation is much more complicated than one spouse moving out. Once you separate, you might have two housing payments, separate living expenses, and more. How will you share your financial resources without one or both spouses misusing marital property? Where will your children live?

If you are preparing to separate, you are well-advised to obtain a separation agreement, which can set the terms of your separation to protect your financial and parental rights. Toward this end, you should work closely with an experienced Annapolis separation agreement attorney.

Separation agreements are legal contracts that can be employed to settle the very issues you will be required to settle upon your divorce – but for the purpose of applying during the time period that you and your spouse live separately. These separation agreements might also be called voluntary separation and property settlement agreements, and they can help maintain your property and assets while you are separated.

The Benefits of Your Separation Agreement

If you are separating, you should be looking for some of the same legal protections of a divorce, and entering into a separation agreement is highly recommended for several reasons.

Set Important Terms

A comprehensive separation agreement can address and resolve all of the matters related to divorce, including all of the following terms (as applicable to your situation):

 

  • The preservation or division of your marital assets and debts
  • Your child custody arrangements
  • Child support
  • Alimony (or spousal support)

With a separation agreement in hand that addresses each of these terms, you can bypass the stressful, time-consuming, and costly litigation process if or when the time for divorce arrives.

Further, separating can put your marital property at risk. If you get divorced, you will be entitled to an equitable distribution of marital property. However, what happens if your spouse sells or wastes property during your separation? A separation agreement can set limitations and restrictions on the use of marital property, so it is preserved if you get divorced. This ensures you receive your fair share.

Retain Decision-Making Power

If you and your separating spouse are able to agree to terms that you are both willing to sign off on at this time, you retain your decision-making power on important matters that directly affect your parental and financial rights. Handing over this power to the judge in a limited divorce case is not something that should ever be taken lightly, and if you can avoid it, you are well-advised to do so. It is worth noting that if your divorcing or separating spouse is not willing to negotiate with you in good faith, coming to mutually acceptable terms may be next to impossible, and your attorney can help you identify the next steps.

Include Matters Not Addressed by the Court

Your separation agreement can include terms that the judge in your case will not specifically address (because they are outside the court’s jurisdiction). For example, if you and your separating spouse wish to include terms that address your shared children’s college costs, you are free to do so.

Stipulate No-Fault Divorce

Separation agreements typically stipulate that any ensuing divorce will be on the no-fault grounds of mutual consent or separation for 12 months. When you have such an agreement on your side, either of you can file for an uncontested divorce that is predicated on these no-fault grounds of separation after the allotted amount of time has passed.

What a Separation Agreement Can’t Do

Separation agreements do not have limitless reach. Consider their limitations:

  • Separation agreements are just that – agreements. If either of you refuses to sign, the agreement has no power, and you might be required to request limited divorce terms from the court to protect your property and custody rights.
  • Even with a comprehensive separation agreement in place, you and your divorcing spouse remain married (you are not legally separated). You cannot marry anyone else during your separation.
  • If your separation agreement is fully executed, it is a valid contract that is enforceable by all the general principles of contract law, but it is not enforceable as a court order (the way a divorce decree is). Once your separation agreement is incorporated into your divorce, it becomes enforceable by court order.

Separation agreements can be more complex than most people imagine, though it is worth it to go through the process to protect your future. If your spouse breaches an agreement, you can take legal action for breach of contract and recoup any losses you experienced. Without an agreement, there is little recourse if your spouse wastes marital property while you are living apart.

Discuss Your Separation Agreement with an Experienced Annapolis Separation Agreements Attorney Today

If you are facing a divorce, a separation agreement could play an important role. Reaching the terms of that agreement – or even knowing which terms should be included – can be challenging. You want the right legal guidance from an Annapolis divorce lawyer who can help you negotiate the terms of your separation agreement or attend mediation if needed. If you cannot reach an agreement on all necessary terms, your lawyer can help you seek a limited divorce or take other steps as appropriate in your situation.

Patrick Crawford at the Law Office of Patrick Crawford is a trusted Annapolis divorce attorney whose practice focuses on helping clients like you obtain separation agreements that protect their parental and financial rights on the journey toward divorce – and beyond. For more information about how we can help you, please don’t hesitate to contact or call us at (410) 216-7905 today.

Patrick

Patrick an Annapolis Family Lawyer is dedicated to helping you through the most complex and emotional family law matters. He was raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He attended college at the University of Notre Dame before attending Notre Dame Law School, graduating in 2001 with honors. While in law school, he studied for one year at Notre Dame’s campus in London, England.