Posts by DClement
Affordable Process
USE A MEDIATOR FIRST Using a mediator is a great first step and can help you resolve issues without going to court. Mediation is an affordable tool to help families resolve conflict and navigate the family law process. The process starts when you and your spouse or co-parent meet together with the mediator to decide…
Read MoreKeep it Simple Folks.
Family law matters do NOT have to be complicated. Lawyers tend to make the process more complex and difficult using threats, accusations, and fear. Fear often leads to a drawn-out battle and extremely high legal fees, getting in the way of an amicable process. I will let you in on a lawyer secret… it doesn’t…
Read MoreStress: Take Care Of Yourself.
Family law matters can be stressful even if you are entering into the process amicably. If you are stressed out, and your children or loved ones are noticing, it may be time to start taking care of yourself. Your children will notice your stress. Your children may start to notice your stress, and they may…
Read MoreSupport in Pennsylvania
What is alimony? In Pennsylvania, alimony is a payment to an ex-spouse after a divorce. In some cases, a spouse may need financial assistance starting over and alimony can help that spouse with the transition. MYTH: I am entitled to alimony. NO! You are not entitled to alimony in Pennsylvania. You must ask a judge…
Read MoreWHAT IF MY SPOUSE WILL NOT MEDIATE?
Unfortunately, most family law matters can drag out for many years and be very expensive and emotionally draining for a family. Often one spouse will be the cause of the ongoing conflict and refuse to negotiate. What if one spouse is reluctant or refuses to mediate? Why? Find out why your spouse will not mediate?…
Read MoreHelpful Mediation Tools
During the mediation process, your mediator may offer tools and worksheets that help you make decisions for you and your family. The tools can be useful for budgeting and planning for your future after mediation. Below you will find a budget worksheet and a property and debt worksheet. Budget Form: Property and Debt Form: Please…
Read MoreConfused?
There are many questions to consider before starting the mediation process. Occasionally I receive a call or a friend will stop me in the grocery store with this… I think I might want a divorce or separation but I am not sure. When divorce ambivalence is prevalent, pushing a couple into the divorce process is…
Read MoreTips for Online Mediation
To download the complete Clement Mediation Online Mediation Guidelines and Ground Rules click here: Online Platforms Your mediator may use an online secure platform like Zoom to conduct online mediation sessions. Before your first scheduled mediation session, be sure to download and install the required software or app and open an account. Familiarize yourself with…
Read MoreWhat is Conscious Uncoupling?
What is Conscious Uncoupling? You may have heard the media use the term “Conscious Uncoupling”. I became familiar with the phrase in 2014 when actress Gwyneth Paltrow and musician Chris Martin announced the end of their 10-year marriage. The announcement said: “It is with hearts full of sadness that we have decided to separate. We…
Read MoreConfined and in conflict?
Living with a spouse with a high conflict personality or attempting to co-parent with your ex is extremely challenging right now. The good news is mediation will help you resolve these issues before it gets worse. Now is the best time to start. In states like Pennsylvania, the courts are closed to lawyers or open…
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