Spring Training for Family Law

Family Law issues are rife with emotional highs and lows.  Whether you are in an unsatisfying relationship, need an increase in child support, or are trying to figure out how you and your ex will pay for your children's college expenses; family issues are usually always stressful.  Changes in your everyday routine can exacerbate that stress.  The holiday season is an obvious example of when our routines are shaken up.  But even seemingly innocuous changes in life, like the change in seasons, can cause increased tension.  Here are six tips to help you get through it, and prepare for action.

1.  First of all, make a resolution.  We typically think of New Year’s Resolutions, but the Spring season is a time of new beginnings.  We observe it every year when we begin to hear birds chirping in the morning, or when the crocuses start popping through the soil.   Spring is the start of new sports; our kids put away their football cleats and dig out the lacrosse sticks, and our favorite baseball team starts "spring  training".   So start your own "spring training"; set a goal to get out of a bad relationship or file a motion to modify support.  It can be a very empowering decision.  It can be your New Beginning.  

2.  Start gathering documents.  Your attorney will need bank statements, your last tax return, 3 paystubs from each party and information on utility bills, mortgage or rent payments.  

3.  Determine your goal.  Do you want primary physical custody of your children?  Do you want to remain in the  marital home?  Do you need more child support because you lost a job?  Have a primary goal and a secondary goal. 

4.  Talk it out.  Talk to a friend, clergy member or counselor.   Being able to vent your feelings can help you focus on what you really want.  You must be able to calmly express yourself to your lawyer.

5.  Retain an attorney.  Ask friends for recommendations and then schedule a consultation (or two).  You need to feel comfortable with your lawyer.  The essence of a lawyer/client relationship is trust.  If you feel comfortable with and trust your lawyer, you will more than likely be happy with the end results.

6.  Last but not least, take care of yourself.  Now that the weather is getting nicer, go outside and get some fresh air; get a manicure or have dinner with a friend; play a pick-up game with your buddies or grab a beer after work.  It’s okay to laugh and have fun, even when you’re going through a difficult time.

Take some silent pleasure when you hear those birds in the morning.  Its nature's message to you -- start spring training and be responsible for your own "New Beginning".

For more information or to schedule a consultation, I can be reached at 609-601-6600.   For interesting posts and helpful links, "Like" my professional Facebook page. 

Best,

Stephanie