As a divorce and family law attorney, I often begin consultations by asking clients to share their stories. Some aren't sure where to start, so I encourage them to begin wherever it feels comfortable—whether that's the...more
There's no escaping the economy, but there is escaping marriage. People divorce for all sorts of reasons: financial disagreements, extramarital indiscretions, child-rearing differences, and simply growing apart as a couple....more
Holidays come and go, but your ex-spouse is forever. This simple truth guides my advice to clients who share children with their soon-to-be former spouse. The secret to a smoother post-divorce life—benefiting both the...more
The profile picture suddenly features one parent and the kids smiling at a pumpkin patch. Another picture shows a buff body at the gym. Perhaps a vague motivational quote. Finally, the post about their spouse being a...more
Divorce changes everything—including your finances. Many people underestimate the true cost of living solo until it’s too late. Your financial affidavit isn’t just paperwork—it’s your financial lifeline....more
You're going through a divorce. Your spouse says something that cuts deep—maybe they call you an unfit parent or threaten that you'll walk away with nothing. These brief yet hurtful comments can trigger impulsive actions. But...more
The decision to divorce is never easy. From the initial contemplation to untangling shared finances, the process demands careful thought at every turn. Once you've made the decision to file, you face your first legal hurdle:...more
You decide you want a divorce, or your spouse tells you they want a divorce. You are served divorce papers from a process server or law enforcement. You want help now. You do not want to wait. Folks dealing with divorce...more
During the holidays, families spend time together observing religious, secular, and other personal traditions. For parents living together with their children, planning where everyone should be and when can already be a...more
In Iowa, child and spousal support (alimony) amounts are mainly determined by each party’s income. But income is not the whole story. Parties may deduct certain qualified expenses, resulting in a lower income amount used in...more
Under Iowa law, alimony, also known as spousal support, refers to the financial help provided by one spouse to the other following a divorce or separation. It addresses the economic disparity that can arise when one spouse...more