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Who Claims A Child On Taxes When There Is Shared Custody?

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When parents separate or divorce, one of the most contentious issues is often the custody of their children. Apart from determining which parent will have physical custody of the child, a crucial question arises: who gets to claim the child as a dependent on their tax return? The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has established tiebreaker … Continued

Coping With The Emotional Challenges Of Valentine’s Day

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Valentine’s Day is a time of celebration for couples in love, but for those who are going through a divorce, it can be a difficult time. Facing the reality that you’re no longer in a relationship is emotional, regardless of the day. So, we wanted to provide some ways to cope with those emotions–some obvious … Continued

From Shock To Acceptance: Unpacking The Five Stages of Divorce

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Divorce is a life-altering event that can leave individuals grappling with a whirlwind of emotions. The end of a marriage brings about significant changes and challenges, making it vital to comprehend and navigate the complex emotional terrain that accompanies the divorce process. By delving into the five stages of divorce, we can gain insight into … Continued

Marital Settlements & Appeals: A Guggenheim Case Study

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Divorce is a challenging process, often compounded by legal complexities and high emotions. At Modern Family Law, we understand the difficulties of separating lives legally, and we strive to provide clarity and support through each step. A significant case from a Texas appeals court, Guggenheim v. Guggenheim, sheds light on the complexities of marital settlement … Continued

Here’s Where To Start When Considering Divorce

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Deciding to pursue a divorce is a significant and often difficult decision that affects every aspect of your life. It involves navigating a maze of legal complexities, addressing many emotional challenges, and meticulously planning for your future logistics. Beyond the immediate legal concerns, divorce can trigger profound emotional responses and necessitate a reevaluation of personal … Continued

10 Things to Know About Failing To Pay Child Support In Texas

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Texas does not tolerate parents who refuse or fail to pay child support. Parents that don't follow court orders for payment and willfully neglect their duties can face many consequences. Among these are fines, garnishing wages, license suspension, and even jail time. Here are 10 things you should know about failure to pay child support … Continued

Finding Joy Again: Coping With Holiday Anxiety After Divorce

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The holiday season, traditionally a tapestry of joy and celebration, can present a vastly different landscape for those navigating it post-divorce. In this phase of life, the usual festivities are often interwoven with a complexity of emotions and a profound shift in personal dynamics. Heightened emotions and altered family structures create a backdrop where stress … Continued

Texas Launches Affordable Legal Support Program Dec 2024

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Starting December 1, 2024, the Texas State Bar will introduce a Licensed Legal Paraprofessionals (LLP) program designed to provide affordable legal assistance in family law, estate planning, probate, and consumer debt cases. LLPs are specially trained professionals who can assist low-income individuals with uncontested legal matters at a fraction of the cost of traditional attorneys, … Continued

Can I Relocate With My Child After Divorce?

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Divorce often brings significant life changes, and for many, relocating with a child is a consideration as they move forward. Whether it’s to be closer to family, pursue a new job opportunity, or provide a better environment for their child, relocation is a complex issue when children are involved. In the U.S., relocation laws vary … Continued

3 Tips For Winning Your Child Relocation Case

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Relocating with a child after divorce can be challenging, especially when both parents share custody. Courts carefully consider child relocation requests, weighing the child’s best interests against the potential impact on the relationship with the non-relocating parent. Here are three key tips to help strengthen your relocation case and demonstrate that the move is beneficial … Continued

Paternity Testing Demystified: What You Need To Know

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Establishing paternity is an important process for many families, carrying significant personal and legal implications. Whether it’s confirming biological ties for peace of mind, securing a legal basis for child custody, or fulfilling responsibilities like child support, understanding paternity can be vital for all parties involved. This article breaks down the essentials of paternity testing … Continued

Child Custody By The Numbers: Stats Every Parent Should Know

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The end of a marriage or relationship is never easy, especially when children are involved. For parents facing a divorce or separation, the process of determining child custody can be one of the most emotionally challenging and legally complicated aspects of the split. Heated debates over living arrangements, parenting time, decision-making authority, and support payments … Continued

Key Considerations in Step-Parent Adoption

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Step-parent adoption is the most common form of adoption in the United States, accounting for approximately 50% of all private adoptions. This process allows a step-parent to assume full legal rights and responsibilities for their spouse's child, often cementing a bond already formed within the blended family. While the process can be rewarding to bring … Continued

Blended Families: Strategies for a Happy, Harmonious Household

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Blended families are becoming increasingly common in the U.S., with approximately 16% of children living in stepfamilies, according to the Pew Research Center. While blending families can provide new opportunities for connection and growth, it also comes with its challenges as members adjust to new roles, relationships, and dynamics. Incorporating expert advice from certified parent … Continued

Parenting Plan Considerations: Traveling With Your New Partner

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Blended families, formed by the union of two individuals with children from previous relationships, are increasingly common in today's society. Traveling with a new partner and children from a prior marriage can present unique challenges, but with thoughtful planning and consideration, family vacations can be an incredible opportunity to strengthen bonds and create lasting memories. … Continued

Ghosted: Dealing With A Non-Responsive Ex During Divorce

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Divorce is rarely easy, but navigating it with a non-responsive or “ghosting” ex can make the process especially challenging. Ghosting—where one person suddenly cuts off all communication—can happen in any relationship, but during a divorce, it can add additional emotional and logistical hurdles. This article explores what to do if you’re dealing with an unresponsive … Continued

Haunted By Uncertainty: Why Divorce Can Feel So Scary

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Divorce is one of life's most challenging experiences, filled with a mix of intense emotions. Topping that list for many is fear. While emotions like grief, anger, and relief might surface, professionals in family law often observe that fear overshadows them all. You're not alone in feeling this way, and with the right strategies, you … Continued

How Long Can You Be Married And Still Get An Annulment?

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When it comes to ending a marriage, most people think of divorce. However, there is another option for some: annulment. While both annulment and divorce can legally end a marriage, they do so in different ways. An annulment treats the marriage as if it never existed, declaring it legally invalid. But how long can you … Continued