Back To School Can Be Time to Evaluate Parenting Plans
Stores in Missouri advertise sales on kids clothes and school supplies weeks before kids return to school after a summer break. The summer may have flown by but back to school means children are starting a new year of education. As children continue to mature and start new activities,…
Does Missouri Have Common Law Marriage?
Common law marriage allows for a couple to be considered formally married even if they have not had a wedding or not been formally married under according to civil or religious ceremony. When people present themselves as being married (even without formal marriage), some states allow the couple to…
What Happens to Student Loan Debt in a Divorce?
Student loan debt is increasing for young people across the country. According to one survey , 58% of 2017 graduates in the state of Missouri leave with student loan debt. The average amount of debt nationally for 2017 grads is $28,650. Students pursuing advanced degrees can end up hundreds of…
Summer Vacations: Tips to Co-Parenting
Co-parenting your children following a divorce, or during the divorce process , can be tricky and difficult. However, there are tips and tricks to better communicating and cooperating with your former or soon to be former spouse. Ultimately, as a parent, your desire is to spend time with your…
Losing a Job During a Missouri Divorce: The Impacts
During the pendency of a Missouri divorce, it is not totally uncommon for one spouse to become unemployed during the proceedings. This is especially true when the issue of spousal support or child support are raised. However, your spouse (soon to be former) cannot simply become unemployed in order…
Getting Unpaid Child Support in Missouri
When a Missouri court orders child support payments from one parent to the other, it is important that the person obligated to pay actually does pay what is owed. When the other parent fails to pay his or her child support obligations, you may be left asking, “What can I do about it?” There is more…
Witnesses in a Child Custody Case
In any child custody proceeding, the outcome of the case will be based on any evidence presented to the court and witness testimony. Judges in child custody cases make decisions based on what they believe is in the best interests of the child. Understanding the important role of witnesses in a…
When to Hire a Private Investigator
If you have recently filed for divorce or are contemplating it, you may have wondered if hiring a private investigator will help your case. Speaking to an attorney about the pros and cons of hiring an investigator is best before taking this step, as hiring a private investigator can add unnecessary…
Who Gets to Keep Family Pets After Divorce?
Most pet owners feel that their pets are a part of their family. Unfortunately, if you are going through a divorce, ownership of a pet is legally considered the same as ownership of other property, like furniture or vehicles. In many divorce cases, which spouse will keep a beloved pet can become a…
Important Documents to Have When Filing for Divorce
When you think a divorce may be in your future, or if you have already been served with paperwork by your spouse, it is a good idea to gather important documents that you will need while your case is pending. Keep these documents in a safe place such as a safety deposit box. If you are unable to…