Talking to your spouse about divorce can be difficult. This is true even when both of you have been struggling with your marriage and may have concerns over whether or not it will last. When the time comes to actually tell your spouse that you want a divorce, how you handle it depends on quite a few factors. We want to help if we can. Here are some helpful suggestions we have learned in our 25 … [Read more...]
Is It Worthwhile to Apologize in the Middle of Divorce?
Most people think of an apology as a way of working out problems prior to divorce. Is it really necessary or effective to apologize in the middle of a divorce? The answer could depend on whether it’s wise to admit fault, the reason for the apology, and the type of process in which your divorce is being handled. Look at the circumstances of your divorce and decide if and when an apology is … [Read more...]
How Do You Manage Anger In The Divorce Process?
Being able to manage anger during a divorce could make a world of difference in how the parties handle their divorce. Divorce is almost always an emotional process. A divorce means changing to a new way of living--maybe even getting a new address. Separating from your spouse also possibly means less frequent involvement with your children. The anger during a divorce can stem from many factors: … [Read more...]
Will Smoking Pot Have An Impact On My Divorce?
The short answer is yes. In the state of Texas, marijuana is still an illegal drug. That means the law handles it the same as any other illegal substance. Pot being illegal isn't the only reason using it will impact your divorce. As more states join the movement of legalizing marijuana, it may leave you wondering if smoking pot will have an impact on your divorce. If you’re headed for divorce or … [Read more...]
When is it Too Late to Save a Marriage?
Nearly half of all American couples give up on their marriage. According to the American Psychological Association, 90 percent of people marry by age 50. Out of those marriages, 40 to 50 percent end in divorce.* One question is when is it too late to salvage a marriage if one or both of the spouses wanted to do so? Attorney Paula Lock Smyth has advised clients on what steps to take to make that … [Read more...]
Mother’s Rights in Child Custody
Do Mother's Rights Differ from Father's in Child Custody Cases? Most people assume mother’s rights hold more weight in child custody cases. This is partly true because the courts did favor mothers in the past. There’s also an assumption that mothers are better parents because of their role as nurturer. The reality is that the law has evolved to allow parents equal rights in custody cases; … [Read more...]
How Long Does It Take to Get a Divorce?
Going through a divorce can be an emotional time. Although it may be something you didn’t plan, you do want closure if the marriage has ended. It’s not easy to move forward while you’re still going through the process, but it helps to know when the divorce will be final. Hopefully, I can help you understand how long it takes to get a divorce and what goes on in the process. How long does a … [Read more...]
6 Dos and Don’ts of Social Media and Divorce
Social media isn’t a tool to vent when you’re going through a divorce. You’re under a lot of scrutiny throughout that process, particularly with a divorce that’s contested or involves a custody battle or property dispute. It’s wise to take a break from social media during the divorce. If you must stay connected, follow my Dos and Don’ts of Social Media and Divorce. When it comes to social media … [Read more...]
What To Expect When Filing For Divorce
Divorce comes with many life changes. It can be challenging if you haven’t braced yourself for those changes or if you don’t know what to expect. While dealing with clients at Paula Lock Smyth Law Offices, I’ve frequently been asked several common questions about what to expect when filing for divorce. Where do we start? The process starts with my asking the client how they want to proceed. I … [Read more...]
This Post-Divorce Checklist is Guaranteed to Help You After Court
Are you fresh out of a divorce and glad to be done with the lengthy process? Don’t exhale just yet. The work may not be completely over. Before you get adjusted to your clean slate, there are a few things you need to do. Use this post-divorce checklist with recommendations from Paula Lock Smyth Law Offices to take care of business. Changes to Property Arrangements Whether it’s multiple … [Read more...]