Monday, December 28, 2015

Co-Parenting Helps Raise Emotionally Healthy Children

Maintaining a good relationship with your ex for the sake of raising your children together is not always easy.  It is simpler to walk away from your ex and think of them as a distant memory the minute the divorce decree is signed but this is not as easy for those who share custody of a children.  In order to live with your ex on a daily basis it is crucial to learn how to cope with them on a regular basis.  A good relationship with your children’s father after your divorce takes a lot more commitment and effort on your part than your marriage ever did.  In order to do this there are five basic reminders to live by.  Living by these five rules on a regular basis will lead you to the happiest life possible for you and your children.
All animosity between the two of you should be left behind: With any life change, especially divorce comes a period of transition.  Your life has been changed and now you are left to lead the type of life you truly want to.  This will start a while new chapter for you, your ex and your children.  Leave the resentment and past problems right where they are.  The past is the past and the present is yours to define with your ex and the children shared between the two of you.
Don’t worry about the stigma of divorce: When a couple gets married and divorced at a young age the thought is that the marriage was rushed into. The stigma is that you were not as mature as older adults who marry later in life.  Marriage takes a commitment along with a lot of hard work; it is not for many couples no matter how young or old they are.  Having children makes marriage a whole lot more work as well no matter how old you are when you get married and settle into having children.  Don’t let other peoples judgments create your story.
Don’t make our friends and family chose sides:  When a divorce takes place it is important to ensure your family and friends that there is no need to take sides.  This is especially important when it comes to co-parenting.  The families remain a vital part of your children’s lives and therefore will remain a part of yours and your ex’s.  Do your best to foster this and grow a relationship with all of the people in your children’s lives.
Don’t forget to be flexible and respectful:  If your children want to babysit the dog they shares with your ex while he is away on a business trip allow for a change of plans.  If your ex needs to switch days he is with your son, do so without a hassle.  This will foster a better relationship between the two of you and make the times you need help a bit easier for him to return the favor and help you.  Plus it shows your children there can be a win-win situation in a divorce.
No matter how turbulent your divorce was it is time to write a new future with your ex for the sake of your children.  Keep an outlook that focuses on the benefits of co-parenting. Divorce attorneys will tell you that a positive, fresh outlook on co-parenting while leaving the dust of the divorce to settle is in the best interest of all parties.
Longton DM, a subsidiary of Longton Law Offices is a divorce attorney specializing in Women/Mom’s in divorce throughout Trenton and the surrounding Michigan areas. Find us at http://www.michigandivorcelawyerforwomen.com.

Co-Parenting Gives Children Stability After A Divorce

Co-parenting is important when it comes to giving your children the stability they thrive on while continuing to have close relationships with both parents and both sides of their families.  It is not easy but co-parenting with your ex gives your children a chance to grow up in an environment that promotes family unity.  Co-parenting allows you to create a working, parenting relationship with your ex for the sake of your children.  With the following tips in mind you and your ex can remain calm, consistent while resolving to avoid conflict with one another.
It will be difficult to move past the history that is shared with your ex but joint custody arrangements help to create a new path for your children.  To begin upon this new joint venture with your ex it is crucial that you begin making shared decisions, begin interacting during drops offs and speak to one another.  It may be difficult when in reality all you want to do is forget that person but in order for your children to retain close relationships with both you and the children’s father.
One of the best ways that this can be accomplished is to begin thinking about this relationship as a new one all together.  One that is no longer about either of you but instead only centered on what is best for your children.  This is the first step in becoming a mature co-parent after your divorce.
Children will begin to realize that they are more important than the conflict that resulted in your divorce when you can put it all aside and co-parent.  No matter what the circumstance of your divorce co-parenting allows children to a variety of feelings including:
  • Security: Feeling secure is important no matter what age you are but as children it is imperative. When a child feels confident that they are loved by both parents they will adjust quicker and more easily to their divorce. This will also allow them to have a higher level of self-esteem than children of divorced parents who chose not to co-parent.
  • Children of parents whom are divorced benefit from the consistency that comes along with it. Many divorce attorneys will tell you children that are co-parented have consistently better behavior because they are under the same rules, discipline, rewards and can understand what is expected of them and what they should expect.
  • Co-parenting often fosters a better ability for children to solve their problems. They will see their parents working together thus fostering their children’s ability to effectively and peacefully solve problems that arise on their own.
  • Children with parents that are working to raise them together also create a healthy example to follow. This is a pattern that will follow them and carry them into their future relationships.
The main element involved in co-parenting is that the focus stays on the children and your children only.  This can be a hard transition but it is vital for your children’s future well being that you both chose to work together and put aside the emotions of anger, hurt and resentment you have towards one another.
Longton DM, a subsidiary of Longton Law Offices is a divorce attorney specializing in Men/Dad’s in divorce.  For experienced representation throughout the divorce process in Trenton, Michigan and the surrounding area you can find more information athttp://www.michigandivorcelawyerfordad.com.

Monday, November 30, 2015

What To Expect As A Modern Woman Going Through A Divorce

No one is an expert when it comes to divorce. Every divorce is unique and offers a different set of challenges. There are however common bonds that, frequently made mistakes and unexpected results that all occur in one form or another when women are going through the divorce process. In this installment divorce attorneys share some information that has been shared with them to help get women through their divorces both financially and emotionally. 

Not only does the divorce itself take awhile the finality of it tends to take a long time to recover from. This is natural and should be taken in stride. You will recover from your divorce. It may take you a longer period of time than it did your best friend, your sister or co-worker but it will happen. There will be days you can barley function while others where you are concurring the world. Surround yourself with a variety of support systems and continue to move through the process until one day you wake up and it is not the first thing you think about.

The divorce attorney you choose is important. Don't settle for a criminal defense attorney, a probate attorney or any other type other than a family law attorney that specializes in divorce, child custody, alimony with a focus on women's rights in divorce. A local divorce attorney specializing in family law will get you a better settlement than anyone else. They are versed in divorce proceedings, local judges and other local attorneys. They will work the system to make sure you come out on top. 

Dig into your finances. Don't let your spouse tell you what you have and what you don't have. It is important to gain access to all financial documentation that either one of you possesses. So many divorces occur because of financial disagreements. Before you even file or your spouse gets wind that you plan to leave start to organize and access all of your joint accounts and all of the single accounts you both have. Online passwords should be documented along with the name and account number of all accounts that are held by either of you or jointly. The more information you gather the better off you will end up financially once the marriage dissolves. 

Consider how much it will cost you to live independently. The well being of you and your children will depend a lot on the financial aspect of the divorce. Estimate high on living expenses and such. Don't let the emotions of the divorce get in the way of ensuring that you are your children will continue to live the lifestyle you have become accustomed to. Keep in mind incidentals that may not be able to be kept after the divorce such as health care. If your spouse is currently carrying insurance on you and the kids it needs to be specified that this will continue or that they will compensate the loss out of pocket. 

The goal in any divorce is to split from one another. It is not important who is at fault and trying to get back at one another only leads to more problems in the end. Leave the complicated stuff to the divorce attorneys to work out and start fresh. Your ex will more than likely be willing to comply with what you are asking for if the proceedings are coming along without a lot of drama. Both parties are looking for a clean break and a fresh start to move on. Your divorce frees you from any obligation you had to your spouse. It is a perfect time to head out into the world and become the you that may have been oppressed in your marriage.

Longton DM, a subsidiary of Longton Law Offices is a divorce attorney specializing in Women/Mom's in divorce throughout Trenton and the surrounding Michigan areas. Find us at http://www.michigandivorcelawyerforwomen.com.

Reasons The Divorce Rate Keeps Rising

Worldwide the rate of divorce continues to rise.  Despite the fact that going through a divorce is viewed as the number one cause of stress.  Divorce causes stress for not only the two of you but for your children and extended families.  It is a difficult process to divide a lifetime of assets let alone the children within the family.  This is not to say that you should ever stay in a marriage that is unhealthy or unhappy.   When your marriage is over the process of divorce will feel like less of a difficulty and more of an end goal to a happily ever after.

The laws around the world have made it more feasible for divorces to occur.  This may be one of the many reasons that the divorce rate continues to rise.  If one partner feels that they would be better off after a divorce than continuing to live unhappily married the divorce process can begin.  In the U.S. there is a law that states no one person has to be at fault in order for a divorce to be granted.  A no-fault divorce is common now-a-days.  When proceeding with a divorce before no-fault divorces became the norm individuals had to prove fault.  One partner had to prove that their spouse was mentally incapacitated, cheating, lying, abusive or any other of the viable reasons that a divorce was better than the couple staying together and trying to work it out together. 

Another reason the divorce rate is rising is that more and more women are seeking careers outside of the home.  In a society where specific roles are still seen it is difficult for many men and women to adjust to this new development.  A lot of men have been raised in a manner in which they see themselves as the sole provider for their families.  When a women seeks a job outside of the household both roles have to adjust.  It is impossible for women to be solely responsible for the household as well as holding down a full time career.  For some men this is not an easy adjustment and therefore leaves them feeling wounded and fragile egos aren’t easily repaired. 

Both men and women have a lot of support and options once they have decided to get a divorce.  Support groups, counseling and therapy have become accepted in society.  Men and women are less fearful of the stigma that was present before.  Divorce is seen in movies, on television and is perceived differently than it had been in previous years. 

With divorce rates increasing it is important to understand that it is crucial to have proper representation.  A divorce attorney specializing in family law will provide the best representation in divorce.  The outcome of your divorce will strongly be dependent upon the council you choose to represent you.  A divorce attorney that specializes in men’s rights in divorce will procure the best results for any man seeking a divorce.  If you are looking to create equal parenting arrangements, equal financial distribution and equality in the process as a whole seek a divorce attorney that represents your best interests. 
Longton DM, a subsidiary of Longton Law Offices is a divorce attorney specializing in Men/Dad’s in divorce.  For experienced representation throughout the divorce process in Trenton, Michigan and the surrounding area you can find more information at http://www.michigandivorcelawyerfordad.com.

Friday, October 30, 2015

Women Should Know This Before They Get Divorced

There are so many feelings that occur when getting divorced.  It is important to consider even the most unexpected situations to better prepare yourself for what can happen after your divorce is finalized.  Here are the top issues that women have shared about their experiences during and after their divorce.
Recovery May Take Longer Than You Thought:  Even the strongest of women admit they have a hard time functioning after a divorce.  Every person going through a divorce heals at their own pace.  Some women bounce back immediately while others take years to get back to living on their own.
Choose Your Divorce Attorney Wisely: Choose an attorney that specializes in family law.  A divorce attorney is the best option to handle your divorce.  Sometimes a criminal attorney will take on a divorce case.  This is not your best option when choosing an attorney.  A family law attorney specializing in divorce is the best option in getting the best possible settlement.
Dig Into All Finances Both Individual and Joint:  Many divorces, actually about forty percent, center around finances.  When you are getting divorced it is important that you get all of the information pertaining to your finances both individually and together.  Gather information on all of the accounts held within the home.  Figure out what payments are made automatically and where money is invested.  The more you know, the more your attorney can get for you in a settlement.
Determine What Future Living Expenses Will Be:  It is important to be financially set once the divorce occurs.  Your well being, as well as the well being of your children is of the utmost importance.  Gather an estimate of what you believe the current cost of living is before the divorce proceedings begin.  You need to know what you will have to have in the future to maintain the lifestyle you are accustomed to.
Consider Unexpected Costs:  It is never easy to think about the future expenses that may arise but when going through a divorce it is important to do just that.  An account is needed to assist with unexpected expenses that occur during and after the divorce proceedings.   It is important to have a savings that covers three months of expenses upon separation and divorce.
Hurting Your Ex Usually Backfires: Hurting your ex in turn hurts your children.  Anything you say or write is out there forever and always for your children to see or hear.  Be careful when talking about your ex.  Kill them with kindness over trashing them.  In the long run you will end up in a better position than if you choose to bash them.
Your Kids Will Hide Their Feelings From You:  Kids are notorious for saying they are fine when in fact nothing about them is okay.  The behavior of your children will change after they experience their parents divorcing.  Younger children may become clingy and want to sleep with you.  Older children may start disobeying and acting out in more dangerous ways.  Whatever your child does it is important to see it and address the situation with care and understanding.  A counselor or family therapist is incredibly helpful to assist children in working through their feelings and getting to a point of acceptance.
Divorce Is Freeing:  More than anything women find that after some time they actually feel free after their divorce is over.  Living life for you without compromising with another individual is the most freeing experience a woman can feel.  Embrace the new chapter that is opening.  Your book is open ended after you have experienced a divorce.  Choose new hobbies, get the kids involved in activities that you can enjoy together and start to move forward; creating a new chapter is an incredibly freeing adventure for newly single women.
Longton DM, a subsidiary of Longton Law Offices is a divorce attorney specializing in Women/Mom’s in divorce throughout Trenton and the surrounding Michigan areas. Find us at http://www.michigandivorcelawyerforwomen.com.

Mistakes Men Should Avoid After Divorce

Accepting life after your divorce is hard on everyone involved.  Even under the best of conditions men have a difficult time adjusting to single life after being married.  Make it easier on yourself, your ex and your children by avoiding these common mistakes that are most often made following a divorce.
Dating Too Soon: To many men think that jumping back into the dating game right away is a sure way to get over their ex and begin moving on with their lives.  This is far from reality. In fact dating before the dust settles on your divorce can hinder your new relationship as well as the relationship you share with your children and ex.
Just because you are feeling alone, exposed and distressed doesn’t mean you should seek out a female companion to fill the void.  Instead begin to date casually.  Don’t take on a relationship until you have figured out life as a newly divorced man.  This can take up to two years to officially happen.  Slow down your dating game and explain to anyone you are interested in dating that you have been through a tough divorce and are not ready for a committed relationship.  Recognize that the time is not right for a relationship that constrains you in anyway.
Isolating Themselves: After a divorce it is easy for men to become cut off from the rest of the world.  This is especially true when a woman gets full custody of their children.  This alone can worsen any feelings of guilt, depression and lonesomeness that is felt.  In factdivorced men are more likely to experience suicide and alcoholism.
Instead of turning to drinking and thoughts of hurting yourself turn to old friends or family members.  Join a health club, join a softball team or join a professional association through work.  All of these activities will help you avoid the feeling of despair that can be felt by men experiencing divorce.
Giving In To Hostility:  Another common mistake that men give into is the hostility they are feeling towards their ex.  Don’t continue to fight with your ex especially when children are involved.  Don’t be the enemy.  When you are co-parenting it is easy to be at odds with your ex.  You may not always get your way on how to parent your children.  Learn to take this all in stride.  Take time to manage your feelings; there needs to be a middle ground when situations arise that you go to in order to seek a mutual resolution.
Don’t yield too much of yourself or your role as a parent to your ex.  If you are willing to put in the work you will see the results in the relationship you share with your children and ex.
Longton DM, a subsidiary of Longton Law Offices is a divorce attorney specializing in Men/Dad’s in divorce.  For experienced representation throughout the divorce process in Trenton, Michigan and the surrounding area you can find more information athttp://www.michigandivorcelawyerfordad.com.

Thursday, September 24, 2015

Adapting To Life After Your Divorce

Divorce is an event within a family that creates a great deal of trauma and emotional distress.  The way that people react to divorce is different.  Each situation garners its own reaction.  For many, it can be quiet a liberating experience that allows them the space they need to grow while others can fall into despair emotionally and financially. 
Adapting to life after divorce will depend on the temperament of each individual.  Some newly divorced individuals make full use of this new found freedom and hit the road running towards new horizons and brighter futures.  Other divorcees sulk around thinking about their pasts, scared of their future.   Divorce changes your life in a billion different ways and fortunately sometimes it ends up better.
Individual Liberty
When two people are married they live their lives in a manner that is acceptable to both partners.  Compromise is a large part of any marriage.  The things you like, the places you go and your hobbies start to conform to those of your partners.  This is drastically different than life after divorce After your divorce you are able to live the life you choose.  There is freedom to come and go as you please, socialize with whomever you want to and live without explanation.  This is true in every manner of your new life from your career choice to the food you eat.  Each and every decision you make is your own without compromise. 
Fresh Start
When you have gone through a divorce you are enabled to begin living life all over again.  There are no restrictions placed on your new life from anyone else.  If you were ever physically or verbally abused you no longer have to live with that nightmare in the background.  You can choose to move to a new city to start your life; you can travel for awhile or create a plan for your life that you alone are in charge of.  Starting fresh allows you to take the things you want out of your old life with you while leaving the other stuff behind.
Financial Empowerment
When you are married your assets become jointly owned.  When you buy something new when you are married it is influenced by your spouse’s approval or disapproval.  No matter where you are in the relationship, whether you are the higher paid spouse or not you still only have fifty percent of the vote on how to spend or save your financial assets.  Financial empowerment is one of the largest revelations newly divorced people enjoy.  Your money is yours.  You can choose to be thrifty and save it or you can choose to be wasteful and spend it without answering to anyone.  You can live the lifestyle you want.  You no longer need to seek approval.  Your budget is now within your complete control. 
There are several positives that come from getting a divorce especially if you were in a marriage that was less than ideal.  That is not to say that divorce is without disadvantages as well.  Single parenting and financial troubles are two side effects that divorce can often bring.  Paying child support and alimony sometimes results in more than fifty percent of your take home pay.  Financial pain can be felt in that now two mortgages are being paid, two utilities, food for two homes etc.  This can be a burden which leads to an unexpected life style change. 
Single parenting is no picnic either.  No matter if you have joint custody or full custody or only visitation you are now the sole person responsible for your children when they are with you.  There is never a break in parenting when you are divorced.  This can be difficult for many parents.  You know play all the roles in parenting not just the ones you are comfortable in.  This is a strange zone to enter especially if you played a specific role, such as primary disciplinarian, in parenting.  You will have to figure out a way in which to learn when discipline is necessary and when it isn’t which something that you may have taken for granted that your spouse used to do for you.
If you find yourself at a cross road in your marriage sit down with a divorce attorney to go over what options you have available.  After talking with a family law specialist you may find that working towards reconciliation is a better option for you or you may not.  The point is that you need to thoroughly explore the good, the bad and the ugly of divorce and its aftermath before diving head first.  For most of us marriage was not something we decided upon on a whim; your divorce should not be either.    
Longton DM, a subsidiary of Longton Law Offices is a divorce attorney specializing in Women/Mom's in divorce throughout Trenton and the surrounding Michigan areas. Find us at http://www.michigandivorcelawyerforwomen.com.

Shielding Children In Divorce

After your divorce there is nothing more precious than or as delicate as your children and their emotional state.  They need to be placed ahead of your own needs and protected from other outside emotional shock.  Before beginning to date again after your divorce in finalized you should carefully consider what is in your children’s best interest.  You must protect them in every way possible meaning you may back burner future relationships until you know for certain that your children have accepted their new lives.
Your children are feeling many mixed emotions throughout your divorce.  This is unlikely to end once the divorce decree is in hand, assets split and parenting arrangements decided upon.  They will have a variety of fears, expectations and hopes.  Your job as their parent is to help them adjust.  Support their growth and shelter them from undue stress.  Divorce is a painful experience for children and is not something that is gotten over just because yours has been finalized.
Some children find that they are incredibly angry.  Not yet having experienced an emotion this strong many young children have not learned the art of hiding the pain away. For these children parents can easily tell how a child is feeling.
Other children are quiet and withdrawn.  This type of child may seem perfectly well adjusted on the outside but distraught on the inside.  Their hurt may typically go undiscovered.  It is your job as the parent to determine where your children are at in dealing with your divorce and to seek the adequate help and guidance that they need to cope with this major life change. 
It is crucial that you take the time right after your divorce to focus on your relationship with your children.  You will need to re-define who you are as a parent.  The level of attention you give to your child along with your behaviors set the tone for their healing.
This is not to say that you should only focus on them and forget about yourself. You set the pace for their healing.  Take care of your own emotional well being without getting romantically involved with anyone for a substantial period of time after your divorce is settled.  Your children are watching you with glaring focus so it is important you model to them behaviors and attitudes that are acceptable. 
Children are fearful of loss after their parents have been divorced.  Jumping back into the dating game after your divorce is not a good idea. Your children will fear more loss or rejection.  Children most often see anything or anyone taking away any of the attention that they feel should be placed on them as another loss.  Take time before you start dating again to establish a strong, healthy foundation with your children.   Creating a trusting relationship with them again is important if you ever hope to have their acceptance and approval with another partner. 
Right after your divorce is final you need time to learn about yourself and to explore your interests.  When you are going through this process your children are watching you as a model for themselves. They will imitate your actions within their own.  Make sure that the example you are providing for your children is one that will lead them into moving on and creating a healthy life within and with each of you separately.   
Longton DM, a subsidiary of Longton Law Offices is a divorce attorney specializing in Men/Dad’s in divorce.  For experienced representation throughout the divorce process in Trenton, Michigan and the surrounding area you can find more information at http://www.michigandivorcelawyerfordad.com.

Monday, August 31, 2015

Choosing A Healthy Divorce

Is there such thing as a healthy divorce?  Does working with one attorney over another make a difference in the health of your relationships once your divorce is finalized?  Believe it or not the attorney you choose to help you throughout your divorce really does change the outcome of your relationships with your ex and your children.  Divorce is difficult.  It is a time that catches you at anything but your best; that is one of the main reasons you need to find an attorney to compliment your end goals and desires.  A divorce attorney that understands this will help make the process and end result easier to handle.
The first thing to understand is that your divorce is not a battle.  Take the right approach from the start.  Find a family law attorney that has this same mindset.  Find an attorney that also doesn’t believe that divorce must be a combat situation.  If you or your attorney go into the process concerned only with winning your divorce turns into a situation that is hurtful, angry and heated.  This is especially harmful if children are involved.  It is important that you work together with your ex.  This will lead to a relationship after divorce that is cohesive and benefits the emotional well being of both you and your children.
There will be many things that will need to be divided up within your divorce.  Consider joint assets for what they are and nothing more.  Yes, the blanket that covered your couch may be super comfy but is it really worth fighting for?  If your ex is really attached to a piece don’t fight them for it.  It is more important that the division of assets is fair.  If you choose to be cooperative throughout the process you will find this may entice your ex to do the same.  Who cares if in the end you need to buy new dishes or sheets?
It may be difficult to begin talking with your spouse about dividing your joint assets. One way to help ease this conversation is by starting out with a written list.  Divide the joint assets up into three categories: things you really want, things you would like and things that don’t really matter.  Compare the list you have created with the list your ex has come up with.  What this accomplishes is a starting point.  You may compare lists and realize that the things you both value are completely different and therefore easier to split.  It also allows for a bit of negotiation as you may choose to give up some of those things that you would like in favor of more important pieces that you really want.  You will find this true of your ex as well.  Your divorce attorneys can set up a time for mediation where this can be discussed in a non-hostile manner.
It is important that you seek legal advice from an attorney that also believes in ending your marriage in a healthy manner.  Having an attorney that helps you remain level headed throughout the divorce process will only help to facilitate a healthy end to your marriage and start to your new life.
Longton DM, a subsidiary of Longton Law Offices is a divorce attorney specializing in Women/Mom’s in divorce throughout Trenton and the surrounding Michigan areas. Find us at http://www.michigandivorcelawyerforwomen.com.

Choosing a Positive Divorce For Your Children’s’ Sake

One of the biggest concerns that most couples have when they are considering divorce is the impact it will have on their children.  How will the children react to living with one parent over the other?  Will they understand that your divorce will actually lead to a happier and healthier life for them?  Divorce brings with it massive changes.    Your children will learn though your example.  If you choose to make the change with their well being in mind they will continue to thrive.
Children have a different perception of divorce depending on their age, gender and history with stress.  Without proper guidance even the most well adjusted, stable, resilient child can end up with emotional problems and less than desirable long term affects.  This does not have to be inevitable.  With parents who ensure that this new chapter in life is embraces children can come out of the divorce process rather unscathed.
One way that this can happen is if both parties agree to joint custody and co-parenting.  There are a number of challenges that come along with parenting during and after a divorce but if you work together they lessen dramatically.  You make have conflicts with your ex that makes this challenging.  Communicating cordially can be difficult.  There is a reason that you have decided to no longer be married.  This however should not impact the decisions that need to be made on behalf of your children.
Make choices together that benefit your children.  When co-parenting you are both spending equal amounts of time with your children.  Communicating with your ex frequently is part of making this a successful arrangement.  Co-parenting should help allow your children’s lives to remain as consistent as they can.  One of the goals with co-parenting is allowing your children to live normally between two households.  It allows children of divorce the luxury of not having to pack up a suitcase every other weekend to visit with their other parent.
Having children was a choice you made together as is every decision that is made surrounding their lives.  Just because you choose to no longer live as one family unit does not mean that your partner is not allowed to weigh in on the decisions that affect them.  Co-parenting allows you the opportunity to both remain in control of each and every aspects of parenting.  You will need to work together on a common set of rules that need to be abided by no matter which home they are in.  The transitions from one home to the other should be made without any noticeable difference to avoid any undue impact on your children.
When it comes to bigger issues or to a disagreement on how to approach an issue with the children you will be challenged.  Don’t go into battle with your ex.  This is not helpful to the end goal and will only put your children in the middle.  Depending on what the issue is will depend on how it is handled.  You can consult with a mediator, schedule time for a consultation with a co-parenting specialist or agree to disagree but support the end decision.
Consulting with a co-parenting specialist is one way in which many divorce parents make the arrangement work well.  Not every detail is one that needs to be debated.  Some issues can be resolved by doing what works well at one house verse the other.  While other issues need to be addressed the same no matter where the children are at any given moment.  A consultant specializing in the co-parenting arrangement can work with you to come up with a parenting plan that works under both roofs.  This arrangement allows for the adverse affects of divorce on your children to be as minimal as any change of this magnitude can be.
Longton DM, a subsidiary of Longton Law Offices is a divorce attorney specializing in Men/Dad’s in divorce.  For experienced representation throughout the divorce process in Trenton, Michigan and the surrounding area you can find more information at http://www.michigandivorcelawyerfordad.com.

Wednesday, July 29, 2015

The Unpredictability In Marriage

No one person fully understands why some marriages last while others don’t.  There are however some common elements that we see to why couples seek a divorce.  Some marriages fall apart because of a number of elements while others just seem to disintegrate for no reason at all.  The list below includes common elements divorce attorneys see in cases of divorce.  Knowing what causes a major to fail may help individuals avoid these failings when seeking a long term relationship in the future.
The most common reason men and women give that are looking to dissolve their marriage is unfaithfulness.  Infidelity causes approximately sixty five percent of all marriages to end.  The hurt that comes along with one spouse cheating on another is almost always a hurt that cannot be mended.  Marriages where infidelity occurs must take massive steps towards repair in order to survive.
Another common reason for divorce is financial disagreements.  Often one partner is a spender and one is a saver.  Instead of working together to determine an appropriate budget to meet both their needs the situation is often ignored.  This leads both partners to feel major resentment towards the other.  This cycle has many pitfalls that eventually lead to divorce.
Addiction is another main reason given as reason that individuals are seeking a divorce.  Addiction to sports, gambling, liquor, drugs or any other substance that causes one spouse to neglect another leaves one spouse feeling neglected and unloved.  In marriage neither partner wants to take a backseat in the others life.  When addiction occurs the person can no longer see the needs of his or her partner and therefore the downward spiral occurs. If you notice addictive tendencies in a person before you marry don’t think that just because they get married they will change. This simply does not occur.  It doesn’t matter what promises are made beforehand.
Physical attraction is most often the first thing that draws us into an attraction and therefore is one of the top reasons the attraction dissolves.  This sounds crazy to many of us however is a very legitimate reason involved in seeking a divorce.  One spouse may feel resentment towards the other if they have gained weight or their appearance has changed drastically.  This decrease in attraction can cause a lack of sexual interest both which result in a failed marriage.
Violence and physical abuse are also listed as top reasons marriages end in divorce.  If one spouse is verbally or physically abusive the marriage is doomed.  This behavior will become more and more violent especially if the abuser doesn’t recognize the issue at hand.  If one partner is unwilling to change a divorce is inevitable.
Immaturity is another common occurrence in marriage that leads one spouse to file for divorce.  Marriage is intended for two committed adults.  When one of these individuals fails to advance to the next level of maturity it can become too cumbersome a job for the other to take on.  Raising children on top of dealing with an immature spouse can become overwhelming.
Marriage is not to be entered into lightly and neither is divorce.  Divorce attorneys advise couples experiencing any type of conflict first meet with a counselor to seek out resolution before committing to a divorce.  After this process there will be clarity on whether a reconciliation can be worked towards or not.
Longton DM, a subsidiary of Longton Law Offices is a divorce attorney specializing in Women/Mom’s in divorce throughout Trenton and the surrounding Michigan areas. Find us at http://www.michigandivorcelawyerforwomen.com.

Divorce Attorney Specializing In Men’s Well Being During and After Divorce

Did you know that women file for divorce twice as often as men?  Any man that has gone through a divorce will tell you that the experience and effects it has on them is devastating.  It is important to make good choices before getting married.  Take into account the following information to help decrease the chances of experiencing any of these devastating outcomes.
Forty percent of marriages end in divorce.  This is an unfortunate statistic.  It becomes expected that people marry and therefore often occurs in haste.  Getting married is all too simple.  Perhaps if this process was more difficult fewer marriages would end in divorce.  Take time to really get to know an individual before you choose to get married.  Perhaps take marriage classes to better prepare you for spending your lifetime learning to compromise.  Marriage is a journey of two people learning to combine their lives into one.  If either person is not committed to this there will eventually be discourse.
With divorce as common as it is blended families are the new norm.  Sixty eight percent of children between the ages of fourteen and eighteen live in a blended family.  This may be the number one reasons that teen delinquency is on the rise.  Children in blended families often feel the effects of their parents’ divorce and suffer from ever feeling whole again.  They often feel that when their parents remarry they become less important.  New love takes over a parent’s attention which can cause children to feel neglected.
When men divorce the hardest adjustment for them to make is the one with their children.  It is an adjustment when they no longer see their children on a daily basis.  For divorced dads it is important for them to focus on their children and becoming involved in their lives.  It is crucial that they seek a parenting arrangement that allows equal parenting time.  This will help secure the bond he has with his children.  The worst thing a divorced dad can do is to think that visiting his children every other weekend is acceptable.  Children will come to resent a father that sends a check each week but only chooses to be a part of his children’s lives on the weekend.
Another difficultly in divorce is splitting friends.  Couples are often made to choose sides when their friends divorce.  Many times women end up coming out on top with the friends they made as a couple.  This leaves newly divorced men seeking new connections or lonely.  If the man is fortunate he will have remained in touch with his guys friends pre-marriage and they will become more important as he reenters life as a single man.
The list of undesirable outcomes goes on and on for men devastated by divorce.  Divorce is never the end we look at when entering into marriage however as statics show it is become increasingly common.  Before you look into marriage it is crucial that you are aware of the devastation that can occur for a man if a divorce becomes inevitable.  Divorce attorneys are often quoted saying that more devastation occurs for a man when going through a divorce.  Women often seek out support where as men do not thus leaving them alone to navigate newly charted water.
Longton DM, a subsidiary of Longton Law Offices is a divorce attorney specializing in Men/Dad’s in divorce.  For experienced representation throughout the divorce process in Trenton, Michigan and the surrounding area you can find more information at http://www.michigandivorcelawyerfordad.com.

Tuesday, June 16, 2015

Steps To Take Before Divorcing

Before a couple decides that their marriage is over and a divorce is inevitable it is advisable to seek out alternative options.  While not every marriage is salvageable it is best to be sure yours isn’t before taking the step to dissolve it permanently.  Divorce is a difficult process not only for you and your spouse but also for your children and extended family.  Strongly consider looking into some or all of the options below before calling it quits.  Divorce is the last step in marriage and considerably one that should be worked to avoid.  

Seek out the advice of a 
divorce attorney even as you try to salvage your marriage as they can also help you to protect yourself in this volatile state.  A divorce attorney has critical advice to share as well as contacts within your local community to help you as you salvage your marriage and thereafter if divorce is the chosen option in the end. 

Marriage counseling is the first step that is often recommended to couples who are struggling to keep their marriage intact.  Marriage counseling takes commitment and work from both partners to have any hope at success.  Counseling will help you identify problems in the marriage and work towards resolution.  Even if in the end you feel like a permanent separation in the form of divorce is needed you and your spouse should take away a good deal of information to help lead towards productive communication as issues come about in the divorce and custody process.

A trial separation may be a next step to consider as it will allow you and your spouse to work on your issues apart.  The hard part of a trial separation is when it comes to your children.  Try to work out a solution that allows you to separate but not uproot the children and their day to day routine and activities.  The space that comes with a trial separation is invaluable.  In order for this to be an effective manner in which you continue to work on your marriage you must work together.  Create a timeline so that both parties have specifics on how long the separation will last and what each of you desires upon reconciliation. 

When moving forward with either of the above options or both of them it is important that you seek advice from an 
attorney specializing in divorce.  Seeking council should not be considered a step closer to the dissolution of your marriage but instead as a way to protect yourself if in fact a divorce is inevitable even after marriage counseling and/or a trial separation. 

Longton DM, a subsidiary of Longton Law Offices is a divorce attorney specializing in Women/Mom's in divorce throughout Trenton and the surrounding Michigan areas. Find us at http://www.michigandivorcelawyerforwomen.com.


Focusing On The Positive Effects Of Divorce On Your Children

The effects your divorce has on your children don’t all have to be negative.  Some aspects of divorce can actually affect your children in a positive manner.  If your marriage is one of unhappiness and void of love and respect your children see this hurt every day.   So even though divorce will be difficult on your children positives may occur.  Your children’s reality is built around you both as parents.  This does not mean that it is the only way in which this can occur is under the same roof. 

There will be issues that come and go with having parents under separate roofs but they are not any worse than those that can arise with two parents under one roof that are not working as a one.  There are several ways in which parenting together under different roofs leaves your children better off than the alternative. 

Communication is the key to ensuring your kids are not afflicted by the negative effects divorce can have on them.  The dissolution of your marriage and those issues are between the two of you and have absolutely nothing to do with the children you created together.  Leave your children out of the discussion that surround finances, property division,
 custody agreements and such.  Let your kids be kids.  When you are with them communicate in an appropriate manner with your ex.  Be civil enough to communicate with one another with the details surrounding visits as well as the children’s day to day life.  You don’t have to agree but those are the details that should be left out when talking with your children or when they are in ear shot.

Your children should not be expected to change the lifestyle they are accustomed to because of your divorce.  This is something that is not always possible but working together should be probable.  Money spent on your children, for your children and such is just that, money spent on the children you chose to have together.   If your children are accustomed to having a cell phone for instance, this is not an expense that is normal to be included when deciding upon a reasonable monthly child support stipend.  Make arrangements with your ex to split the bill no matter whose name the bill is under.  These situations will arise time and time again with driver’s education, school field trips or outings with friends.  Be clear that the money that is spent for child’s support if used for the basic necessities such as food, clothing and shelter.  The extras should not be expected to be taken from this fund.

The effects of 
your divorce on your children will depend on the two of you.  Good communication does not mean that you agree on each and every decision what is does mean is that the effects of your divorce on your children will be more positive then negative.
Longton DM, a subsidiary of Longton Law Offices is a divorce attorney specializing in Men/Dad’s in divorce.  For experienced representation throughout the divorce process in Trenton, Michigan and the surrounding area you can find more information at http://www.michigandivorcelawyerfordad.com.


Tuesday, May 26, 2015

Planning For Summer As A Divorced Parent

Summer is a tricky time for divorced parents.  Below you will find some hands on tips to create a summer with less stress and minimal conflict.
A key element to summer is structure.  Parents who are separated or divorced must have a plan in place that helps to define how their children time will be spent throughout the summer months.  If planning your children’s summer out together is too much for the two of you to handle alone meet with your divorce attorney’s present with a mediator to establish clearly the division of time.  This way each parent can structure their children’s summers as they see fit when they are in their custody.  If one parent is pro summer camp then set up an arrangement where they attend camp while with that parent and they also assume the cost.
Expenses throughout the summer need to be planned out carefully.  Childcare is large expense that may not have been a part of the equation in past summers.  Again, the cost of childcare is something that needs to be specifically addressed.  Clarity with these situations will help prevent surprises.  This process can be seamless with the help of your divorce attorney and a mediator.
Summer can often be a time of last minute changes.  This may not work well if you are not able to communicate with your ex-spouse.  To avoid any unnecessary conflicts for your children don’t assume that your last minute plans and changes will not be met with resistance.  When these occasions occur put yourself in their shoes.   The changes you are making may interfere with plans that they have set in stone.  Follow the written plan that is in place.  If you need to make changes or are asking for your ex to adjust time request the change in writing with as much advanced warning as possible.  Don’t put your children in the middle if your spouse declines and chooses to remain true to the schedule set in place.
Try to put all other personal conflicts aside when working out a parenting plan for the summer.  Detach yourself from other conflicts and divide them into smaller more manageable pieces.  Don’t let your feelings towards one another affect summertime fun.  Never try to outdo each other.  Your goal as parents throughout the summer should be clearly defined, financially reasonable and simple to accomplish.  It is only three months; a plan should be established and followed by both parents.
Don’t involve your children in summertime conflicts.  Make sure that summer is kept carefree and filled with memories.  Memories don’t cost money.   Make sure you understand even the simplest day trip can make a long lasting impression upon your child.  After a divorce it is especially important to understand that your children want your time and attention not fancy vacations and non-stop summer camps.
Longton DM, a subsidiary of Longton Law Offices is a divorce attorney specializing in Men/Dad’s in divorce.  For experienced representation throughout the divorce process in Trenton, Michigan and the surrounding area you can find more information at http://www.michigandivorcelawyerfordad.com.

Overcoming The Challenges Summer Brings To Divorced Parents

Summer vacation is a difficult time for many working parents.  It is stressful to consider what your children will be doing day in and day out throughout the summer while you are working.  Will they be at summer camp?  How will you afford that extra expense or that of child care?  The challenges faced double when it comes to couples that are divorced and sharing time and expenses.  Below are some of the most common mistakes when it comes to summertime with divorced parents.
Summertime is not the time to have a vague parenting plan or a non-existing one.  A detailed parenting plan is necessary in the summer to make for hassle free planning.  It can also help to avoid the monetary issues related summer plans and your children.  Before summer begins have a detailed written plan that states exactly what weeks the children will be with each parent as well as who is to pay for camps, childcare and other extra activities that come about during the summer.  This will help circumvent issues before they arise.
As a result of the divorce there are fewer finances available for summertime fun.  With this in mind it is important to remember that not everything your children did during the summer prior to the divorce is going to be financially able to be done now.  Money is divided differently and therefore activities that are done are different as well.  This is also the case if one parent stayed home with the children during the summer before you were divorced.  This luxury is most likely not available to parents that are newly divorced and childcare will need to be planned and budgeted for.   It is important to remember that fun times and memories of childhood summers don’t come from money spent rather time spent.
With divorce comes conflict between parents and differences of opinions.  This happens a lot with divorce, parental styles tend to change and summer time makes this more evident than ever before.  When parents are not on the same wave length when it comes to parenting the children can often feel the stress.  Don’t allow yourself to be succumbed to arguing over each and every detail that summer brings.
To avoid chaos over summer vacation it is important that you meet with your divorce attorney to ensure that your parenting plan is detailed and realistic.  If nothing is in place addressing summer directly it is important to have a meeting of the minds.  If there are drastic differences you may want to meet with your divorce attorneys and a mediator to establish a plan, a routine and a financial order to cover the bases of summer.
Longton DM, a subsidiary of Longton Law Offices is a divorce attorney specializing in Women/Mom’s in divorce throughout Trenton and the surrounding Michigan areas. Find us at http://www.michigandivorcelawyerforwomen.com.

Wednesday, May 20, 2015

Overcoming The Challenges Summer Brings To Divorced Parents

Summer vacation is a difficult time for many working parents.  It is stressful to consider what your children will be doing day in and day out throughout the summer while you are working.  Will they be at summer camp?  How will you afford that extra expense or that of child care?  The challenges faced double when it comes to couples that are divorced and sharing time and expenses.  Below are some of the most common mistakes when it comes to summertime with divorced parents.
Summertime is not the time to have a vague parenting plan or a non-existing one.  A detailed parenting plan is necessary in the summer to make for hassle free planning.  It can also help to avoid the monetary issues related summer plans and your children.  Before summer begins have a detailed written plan that states exactly what weeks the children will be with each parent as well as who is to pay for camps, childcare and other extra activities that come about during the summer.  This will help circumvent issues before they arise.
As a result of the divorce there are fewer finances available for summertime fun.  With this in mind it is important to remember that not everything your children did during the summer prior to the divorce is going to be financially able to be done now.  Money is divided differently and therefore activities that are done are different as well.  This is also the case if one parent stayed home with the children during the summer before you were divorced.  This luxury is most likely not available to parents that are newly divorced and childcare will need to be planned and budgeted for.   It is important to remember that fun times and memories of childhood summers don’t come from money spent rather time spent.
With divorce comes conflict between parents and differences of opinions.  This happens a lot with divorce, parental styles tend to change and summer time makes this more evident than ever before.  When parents are not on the same wave length when it comes to parenting the children can often feel the stress.  Don’t allow yourself to be succumbed to arguing over each and every detail that summer brings.
To avoid chaos over summer vacation it is important that you meet with your divorce attorney to ensure that your parenting plan is detailed and realistic.  If nothing is in place addressing summer directly it is important to have a meeting of the minds.  If there are drastic differences you may want to meet with your divorce attorneys and a mediator to establish a plan, a routine and a financial order to cover the bases of summer.
Longton DM, a subsidiary of Longton Law Offices is a divorce attorney specializing in Women/Mom’s in divorce throughout Trenton and the surrounding Michigan areas. Find us at http://www.michigandivorcelawyerforwomen.com.