Archives

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,

READ MORE

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

READ MORE

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

READ MORE

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

READ MORE

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

READ MORE

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

READ MORE