If you have been researching divorces, you have probably come across the terms contested and uncontested. Is it important? Does one save me money? What does it mean for you? The reality is that classifying your case as an uncontested vs contested divorce is important....
What is involved with a Stepparent Adoption? An adoption by a stepparent allows the family to become completely blended. The family members’ names can all match. The legal rights and responsibilities between the stepchildren and other children become identical. And in most cases it provides the...
This is your case, your assets, your kids, your future. You need to take an active role and learn about and prepare for a hearing. A hearing is different from a trial. It typically is not a final disposition in a case. Hearings are used...
When embroiled in family law cases, clients frequently ask if certain behaviors are ok. We've been separated for 4 years, can I date? Can I take my kids to a friend's house for a bar-b-que while we are in the middle of our custody case?...
Mediation in Divorce: The Pros and Cons Mediation in divorce is common. It describes a process where a specially training Attorney meets with both parties to a case, and tries to come to a compromise. The mediator will listen to each side, review the facts, and...
Getting a divorce can be a stressful process. Hiring an attorney will do quite a bit to protect your interests and reduce the impact. But there is a lot that you are still responsible for. Building a good case takes both an attorney and a...
What is an Uncontested Paternity Action? There are a few ways to “legitimize” a child other than marriage. An affidavit acknowledging paternity at the hospital is the most commonly used way. It is required in order to be placed on the child’s birth certificate. It is...
What is a Guardian Ad Litem? A GAL, short for Guardian Ad Litem, is an attorney appointed to represent the interests of the child(ren). He or she is a licensed attorney and is appointed directly by the Court. Some Judges may give the parties a choice...
You've been to Court, whether it be through a Paternity Case or a Divorce Case. You have a Parenting Plan and Court order requiring a certain visitation schedule. Your ex is not complying, they are refusing visitation. Maybe it's habitual, maybe its spotty. But it...
What is a Missouri Form 14? Child support is ordered during a divorce or paternity/custody action. It can also be addressed in a modification of either. When child support is litigated, both parties must hand in a Form 14 to the Judge, and the Judge must...
