Parenting
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 MoreLove and Marriage
Each spring, I have the pleasure of teaching a course that brings me so much joy and satisfaction every year. The class is called “Love and Marriage” and is offered as an undergraduate course at West Chester University, located in Chester County, Pennsylvania.
Read MoreCO-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 MoreAffordable 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 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 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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