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How to Modify Family Court Orders in Columbia, MO

In a divorce or separation, there are several court orders that make up the case. This is true whether the outcome was reached through mediation and a separation agreement or through litigation and court decisions. These court orders include division of property, child custody, child support, and spousal maintenance. These orders outline how you and your family’s lives change. However, not all of these court-enforced orders are final. Missouri courts understand that families can go through significant life changes that make previous court orders no longer in a family’s interest or unable to meet their needs. If you, your co-parent,

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How Domestic Violence Impacts Child Custody Cases

Domestic violence has a severe influence on many families and individuals in the country. If you are going through a divorce or separation where there was domestic violence, you may be uncertain how this will change child custody proceedings. No child should have to suffer or see domestic violence. Columbia courts look after the child’s interests above all else. If you are a parent attempting to get full custody or are a parent accused of domestic violence, legal counsel is essential to protect your rights during a child custody case. Factors that Determine Child Custody Courts in Missouri prefer joint

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Tips for Co-Parenting After a Columbia Divorce

If you and your ex-spouse or ex-partner are co-parenting your children after a separation or divorce, it can be complicated. Missouri prefers joint custody and parenting plans for legal and physical custody whenever possible, but even parents who get along can find co-parenting challenging. It’s important to learn how to handle the situation, take care of your children and their interests, and focus on allowing both you and your co-parent to develop meaningful relationships with your children. Understanding Co-Parenting Co-parenting allows children of a separation or divorce to benefit from having two parents. This can help ease their transition after

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LGBTQ+ Couples and Child Custody During Divorce

In any divorce or separation, child custody is a contentious and stressful issue. A same-sex divorce comes with its own challenges, as the law doesn’t always address the nuances of LGBTQ+ child custody. If a couple isn’t married but has children together, determining child custody can be much more complex. It’s essential for same-sex couples to understand how they can establish legal parentage in Missouri. Not only does this help in the event of separation, but it can aid in other legal matters and ensure both parents have rights to their children. Parental Presumption and Paternity in the U.S. For

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When Is the Right Time to Plan My Estate?

Many people would rather not think about the end of their lives. Although it may feel morbid to do so, planning for your death is important. Doing so protects your family and loved ones. It also offers some guidance if you pass away unexpectedly. Thinking of estate planning as an act of love helps many people warm to the idea. If you pass away without a plan for your assets, your family will be left to guess about your wishes for your estate. This can be difficult and cause unnecessary stress during the grieving period. If you are just beginning

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Understanding Child Support Guidelines: What You Need to Know

When parents separate or divorce, the well-being of their children is a top priority. One way to ensure that children are financially supported is through child support payments. However, many parents find themselves confused about how child support guidelines work. What Is Child Support? Child support is a payment made by one parent to the other parent to financially support their child after separation or divorce. The payment is meant to cover the child’s basic needs, including food, shelter, clothing, and medical care. Child support is usually paid until the child turns 18 or graduates from high school. However, the

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Domestic Violence in LGBTQ+ Relationships: Unveiling the Unique Challenges

Domestic violence is a serious issue that affects individuals and communities worldwide. It is not limited to any particular race, gender, sexual orientation, or socio-economic status. However, the LGBTQ+ community faces unique challenges regarding domestic violence. There are many unique challenges faced by members of the LGBTQ+ community who experience domestic violence. It is important to understand these challenges to provide better support for survivors. Unique Challenges First, it is crucial to understand that domestic violence in LGBTQ+ relationships can look different from domestic violence in heterosexual relationships. For example, abuse in LGBTQ+ relationships can involve a partner threatening to

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Estate Planning During Terminal Illness

No matter the cause, dealing with a loved one’s terminal illness is a difficult and somber path. From diseases like dementia, advanced heart or lung disease, Parkinson’s disease, or late-stage cancer, if you find yourself, a spouse, or family member suffering from these illnesses, it’s difficult enough to get through the day, let alone work on getting your affairs in order. If you or a loved one are dealing with a terminal prognosis and you have yet to plan your estate, it is vital to get started right away. You want to ensure your assets are protected and your loved

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When Divorced Parents Disagree on Gender-Affirming Therapy

For transgender youth, gender-affirming therapy can be a lifesaving intervention. It is a form of therapy that seeks to help those questioning their gender identity explore their feelings and conclude that their gender identity is right for them. This type of therapy can help transgender youth feel more comfortable in their own skin and can reduce the risk of suicide and other mental health problems. However, when divorced parents don’t agree on whether or not their child should receive gender-affirming therapy, it can create a difficult situation. For example, if one parent is supportive of their child’s gender identity and

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What Is a Postnuptial Contract, and Do I Need One in Columbia, MO?

A prenuptial contract is a legal document that provides financial security to marrying spouses, outlining their respective financial rights and responsibilities for their marriage. Every state has unique laws pertaining to divorce and all related legal issues like property division, child custody determination, and more. If you are planning to marry soon, you may not want to consider the possibility that your marriage will end in divorce, and many people think the suggestion of a prenuptial contract indicates a belief that this is the most likely outcome. The reality is that a properly constructed prenuptial agreement can offer several valuable

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Common Causes of Contempt Proceedings in Columbia, MO Family Court

When you have a family court order concerning a divorce, a custody dispute with your child’s co-parent, or any other legal matter resolved through the Columbia, MO family court system, it is essential for all parties beholden to that order to understand the rights and responsibilities it dictates to each party. Life can present unpredictable complications and emergencies, and sometimes it can be difficult or impossible for someone to meet their expectations under a family court order. When this occurs through no fault of their own and in a temporary manner, it’s possible for them and the other parties involved

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