Who claims child on taxes with 50/50 custody?
Tax season is rapidly approaching. For parents not filing taxes together, it is always best to speak with your tax advisor about the proper rules and filings. The tax code can be complicated and changes from year to year. However, there are general rules to keep in mind on who claims a child on their […]
Navigating College Expenses as Divorced Parents
The new year is around the corner, and many students or divorced parents are finalizing college applications. The college application process is already tough, but balancing it between two households is even more challenging. Typically, it is best for the children when the parents work together on these issues, but the court may be able […]
The Impact of Divorce on Military Benefits
Our service members and their families give so much to their countries. On Veterans’ Day, we celebrated the sacrifices our veterans have made for our country. Sometimes, their sacrifice comes at the cost of their families. We explore here the impact of divorce on military benefits. Once a service member exits active duty, they have […]
How to Protect Yourself From an Abusive Partner
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911. Domestic violence (also known as intimate partner violence) is abuse occurring between a significant other or family member. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “about 41% of women and 26% of men experienced contact sexual violence, physical violence, or […]
What is Court-Ordered Mediation in Child Custody Cases?
Family Court Services Mediation (FCS), Child Custody Recommending Counseling (CCRC), or Confidential Mediation (Tier 1-3) are various terms used by California county courts for required or court-ordered Child Custody Mediation under California Family Code Section 3170. In all cases where initial or modified custody is at issue, the court will send the parents to FCS […]
How to take a vacation when you share custody
In planning any upcoming vacation when you share custody, parents need to check their court orders regarding what they must do to take a vacation with their children. If parents have a good co-parenting relationship with the other parent, then they can communicate the requested vacations with specific details as to where and when. Parents […]
Navigating Custody Arrangements During Summer Break
There are a hundred and eighty days of the school year, and summer break accompanies children’s excitement. The annual problem for parents is finding a way to manage it before school starts in the fall. For co-parents, summer planning is more complicated because they must navigate the custody of children between two households, two parents’ […]