Some couples think they can do their own divorce without lawyers. This is called a pro se divorce, which means the party represents themselves. Often, they later discover they have made a costly mistake, particularly if there are children involved, there are un-divided assets or they had retirement benefits. For those people with uncomplicated property or no children, pro se divorce can work, but … [Read more...]
Dallas Family Law Blog
Rich Tones Chorus – Making Beautiful Music!
When I am not in the office or courtroom practicing law, one of my hobbies is singing with the Rich-Tone Chorus. About 100 women make up our Sweet Adelines Chorus where we sing four-part, a cappella harmony. Sweet Adelines continues to positively impact women’s lives and helps them find their voices, build confidence, enhance their vocal abilities, improve leadership and management qualities, and … [Read more...]
Tips for Handling Valentine’s Day in the Midst of Divorce
Valentine’s Day can be particularly difficult for those going through a divorce. For many divorcing couples, Valentine’s Day may also be the day of their wedding. With the focus all around on romantic love while they are in the midst of divorce, they may feel they failed at love. But, it does not have to be that way. One divorced writer says she actually enjoys the holiday more now that she is … [Read more...]
Can You Be Friends with Your Ex After Divorce?
You may think that being friends after divorce with your ex is impossible. There was a time not too long ago when such an idea was scoffed at. By the time the litigation process was over, the exes, who had battled each other in court, carried emotions with them after the process was over that often made it almost impossible for them to even be civil to each other. Now, as more and more couples … [Read more...]
How To Talk To Your Spouse About Divorce
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...]
The Do’s and Don’ts of Summer Child Custody
The summertime is a great opportunity for parents who are separated or divorced to spend some quality time with their children. This is especially important for those parents who don’t have equal or substantial parenting time with their children during the school year. To take full advantage of this time, you should follow these quick DO’s and DON’Ts of summer child custody. DO…Plan specific … [Read more...]
How Does Child Custody Work During the Summer?
Child custody is the most important area to work out during a divorce. It defines the time and shapes the new relationship you’ll form with your children. If you’re not the primary caregiver, you may be wondering where that leaves you concerning spending time with the kids during the summer. Paula Lock Smyth Law Offices has a few tips for how summer child custody works. How is Summer Child … [Read more...]
Paula Lock Smyth’s Passion for Singing Leads Her to The Rich-Tones
I grew up in a musical home. My early memories are of mom playing the organ and singing the latest hits, while I tried to harmonize. As a child, I was a member of The Singing Angels, a non-profit in Cleveland, Ohio dedicated to youth development through artistic achievement in the performing arts. Growing up, I sang with my school and church choirs but as an adult, I had no outlet for my passion … [Read more...]