Making the decision that your marriage is over is one of the most challenging moments in life. It's a time filled with emotions, uncertainties, and a myriad of decisions to be made. So, what should you do when you realize that your marriage is over? First and foremost, resist the urge to panic. Regardless of whether you're the one initiating the end of the marriage or receiving this news, the … [Read more...] about You Realize Your Marriage Is Over, What Now?
Best Way To Do A Pre-Nuptial Agreement? Collaboratively
Some people feel there is a stigma around premarital agreements, but a premarital agreement can be a vital part of a marriage. For couples who do not have such an agreement, the State of California provides a premarital agreement, which is the law of community property. Many couples wish to create their own agreement which defines how property and income will be treated and “characterized” during … [Read more...] about Best Way To Do A Pre-Nuptial Agreement? Collaboratively
What Is Divorce With Respect?
A common misconception is that a divorce will end in anger and bitterness, with the former spouses hoping never to speak to each other again. Although that may happen, it doesn’t have to be that way. Those who divorce with “respect” can move forward with their new lives without animosity. It may not be easy, but it can be done. What Does It Mean to Divorce with Respect? Divorce with … [Read more...] about What Is Divorce With Respect?
Common Divorce Misconceptions – Mom Always Gets Custody
There was a time, decades ago, when many married women were stay-at-home moms and dads were the ones who went off to work every day, and when, in divorce, there was a preference for awarding custody of the children to the mother. Those days are gone and the idea that moms always get custody is now just a myth. There are many different factors that are considered, and the court does not favor … [Read more...] about Common Divorce Misconceptions – Mom Always Gets Custody
Divorce with Respect Week
Divorcing couples almost always start at completely different places: one has been thinking about it for a long time, and one is completely caught off guard. Beth Proudfoot, LFMT, after thirty years of marriage, was shocked to her core. Given the choice, though, she decided on a Collaborative Divorce. What followed was a complete change in her life trajectory. “For weeks after … [Read more...] about Divorce with Respect Week
Child Custody: The Right of First Refusal
The term “right of first refusal” has its origin in contract law. For example, if a tenant has the right of first refusal, before the owner can sell the property, the tenant must first be given the opportunity to purchase it before the owner can sell it to anyone else. When parents have the right of first refusal in their parenting plan (or if the court orders it), if one parent, during … [Read more...] about Child Custody: The Right of First Refusal
Your Divorce Is Over Now What?
It can be a tricky process to begin your new beginning. Here’s the advice to follow after your divorce is finalized. Start at the End: Finish Your Estate Planning If you haven’t started your estate planning, now is the time to begin. Especially if you have children, consider who you want things left to and which things to leave. Be sure to think in the long term: who do you … [Read more...] about Your Divorce Is Over Now What?
Can You Be Friends After You Get Divorced?
Divorces aren’t always acrimonious. Many are amicable, with spouses realizing that they just don’t want to be married anymore – and for one reason or another, they want to stay in touch. Can they go so far as to remain friends? It is possible to be friends with an ex-spouse. It is also possible to have that friendship take a bad turn if you don’t handle the situation … [Read more...] about Can You Be Friends After You Get Divorced?
Privacy and Confidentiality in Divorce
Divorce is a painful process. Even if you and your partner agree with getting divorced, there are going to be some uncomfortable issues that arise. You and your soon-to-be ex-partner need to discuss important issues, such as child custody, child support and how to divide up your property. The process becomes much more difficult knowing that you will have to share these intimate … [Read more...] about Privacy and Confidentiality in Divorce