Tell Your Child First Were you thinking of telling your child’s teacher about your divorce before telling your child? Bad idea. Here’s an example of how not telling your child first could backfire: On Friday afternoon when you’re picking your child up from school you mention to the teacher that you’re getting divorced and that…
Read MoreIf you separate from the other parent of your child, more often than not you will still need to interact and co-parent with that individual. There are many things that can go wrong when co-parenting. Here are five of the most common mistakes parents make and some suggestions for what you can do when you…
Read MoreSometimes parents are unable to agree upon where their children should primarily reside (or which parent their children should live with) when they have separated or have filed for divorce. When there is no agreement and the issue of custody/parenting time cannot be settled, litigation ensues. Custody litigation is an emotional process for all involved.…
Read MoreIt’s not uncommon for a parent to move out of state when a relationship has ended. In Maryland, if the parties cannot reach a custody agreement (sometimes called a parenting plan, which should be then incorporated into a consent order with the court) the court will decide what custody arrangement is in the child’s best…
Read MoreI often write about narcissism because it is a common theme in family law. These are just a few examples and tips that I provide to my clients who find themselves divorcing a narcissist. 1. Don’t accept the narcissist’s version of history Even amicable divorces rarely bring out the best in people, and it becomes…
Read MoreIf your custody arrangement or court-order modification requires consistent co-parenting, here are six ways to make the back-and-forth schedules easier on everyone: 1. Know your triggers What triggers your anger or annoyance with the other parent? Late pick-ups? Lack of discipline in the other parent’s house? Fed up with clothes and belongings being lost or…
Read MoreTwo things I see most often from my clients in custody related matters: 1. focusing on what’s happening RIGHT NOW and 2. dwelling on the negative actions by the other parent. If you’ve been in a custody battle, perhaps you have said one of these complaints: “the kids didn’t call before bedtime when they are…
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