The Family Law Nightmare

As you may be aware, Family Law matters can quickly snowball out of control. Both sides may threaten to take the house or the kids or may falsely claim abuse to gain the upper hand in a divorce proceeding. Sadly, lawyers play a role in the drama by escalating conflict. Why would this happen? Simply…

Read More

SAMPLE SCRIPT

Need help talking about divorce mediation with your partner or co-parent? Use this script to have the initial conversation about mediation with your spouse or co-parent: Hi [Partner’s name], I recognize that this process has been difficult for both of us, but it’s my hope we can move forward in a positive direction. Have you…

Read More

CO-PARENTING DURING THE HOLIDAYS

The holiday season can be challenging, however, careful planning and communication with your co-parent can help make the season a smooth one. Start planning early Conflict arises when parents wait until the last minute to arrange an event with the children. During the holidays our lives are already overscheduled with festive parties and events and…

Read More

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 More

Keep 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 More

Stress: 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 More

Support 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 More

WHAT 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 More

Helpful 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 More

Confused?

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 More