Phoenix Arizona Family Law Blog

Divorce: Preparation is key

On behalf of Reppucci & Roeder Attorneys at Law posted in divorce on Thursday, July 12, 2018.

According to recent statistics, half of all married couples will separate. In Arizona and across the United States, about two million couples file for divorce every single year. It's no secret that this process can be very arduous and stressful. However, before filing for divorce, there are things to consider that may make the process easier and less strenuous for all parties involved.

First and foremost, couples need to determine that getting a divorce is the right move. Once the decision has been made, it is extremely helpful to research divorce laws, as these laws vary by state. Organization is also key during this process, specifically financial organization. Close any joint accounts and gather all financial statements. Also, creating a rough budget of expenses and income will provide a better understanding of what to expect after the separation and could prove invaluable when making big financial decisions.

Child support payments are being updated in several states

On behalf of Reppucci & Roeder Attorneys at Law posted in child support on Thursday, July 5, 2018.

A divorce or split means that a family potentially goes from two incomes down to one. Child support payments are court-ordered payments that are made periodically by the noncustodial parent to the custodial parent to support the needs of the children such as education, health care, food, clothing and shelter. Child support systems were established in Arizona and across the country to ensure that children do not suffer the economic impact that often comes with the end of a relationship. However, since the U.S. economy has grown exponentially in the last 20 years, many states are in need of updates to the way child support payments are calculated.

One state is making changes to the way child support is calculated and other states may soon follow suit. In some states, these calculations have not changed since the early 1990s, and were derived from the economic data of the 1980s. The overall goal of the changes is the collection of more payments for children.

Your divorce might impact your credit history and score

On behalf of Reppucci & Roeder Attorneys at Law on Thursday, June 28, 2018.

Most people use credit for a lot of things these days. Some might not even really think about how they are using it. Instead, they just get what they need and pay the bills when they arrive. Those going through divorce, however, may need to consider how the divorce will impact their credit scores going forward.

There are many ways that divorce can impact your credit. If you have concerns, you should review the following points and determine how they might apply to your case:

Maintaining mental health during divorce

On behalf of Reppucci & Roeder Attorneys at Law posted in divorce on Thursday, June 28, 2018.

In life, there are certain events that can bring about major stress, difficulty and change. The most common of these is often divorce. It's common knowledge that the end of a marriage is very stressful and can wreak havoc on a person's mental well-being. The following tips can help Arizona residents ward off stress and maintain mental health amid divorce.

Those experiencing divorce may have feelings of isolation. However, the experience of divorce is very common these days, and loneliness is also a common emotion in this situation. Keep an eye on the big picture and don't sweat the small stuff. By remaining focused on long-term goals, a sense of encouragement may be induced.

Neglecting child support could mean harsh penalties

On behalf of Reppucci & Roeder Attorneys at Law posted in child support on Thursday, June 21, 2018.

In Arizona and across the country, a system of support has been established for children whose parents have split. Child support laws require the noncustodial parent to provide financial support for the benefit of children. These funds are primarily to be used to pay for necessities such as shelter, food, clothing and health care. However, it is not uncommon for the noncustodial parent to neglect these payments. Nonpayment of child support not only has a negative impact on children, but it can also mean very strict penalties for those refuse to pay child support.

A man in another state is facing criminal charges for allegedly lying about his income in order to avoid a higher child support payment. Reportedly, the man works as a police officer and allegedly filed false payroll statements. The man allegedly told a family court judge that his schedule had changed as a reason for his change in income.

Keeping children out of the crosshairs of divorce

On behalf of Reppucci & Roeder Attorneys at Law posted in divorce on Thursday, June 14, 2018.

Unfortunately, children are often innocently caught in the crossfire when parents in Arizona decide to end a marriage. Marriages can end for a number of reasons but, regardless of social stigmas and stereotypes, divorce does not have to be a totally negative experience for parents or children. However, for children to make it through this process unscathed, it is imperative that parents not lose focus on being parents.

The most important thing for parents to do during this time is to make children a priority. Divorce is tough, no doubt, and parents may tend to focus on their own emotional pain. However, children need attention during the process as well. Even though parents are technically separated, putting differences aside and working together will have positive outcomes for the emotional and mental well-being of the children.

Divorce: Planning now can prevent stress in the future

On behalf of Reppucci & Roeder Attorneys at Law posted in divorce on Thursday, June 7, 2018.

The end of a marriage is definitely a life-altering and expensive experience that can bring about great stress and anxiety. Those in Arizona going through a divorce can have many questions about the process and how to avoid financial ruin. The following financial tips could help those that are going through this experience.

Adjusting finances for a major life change such as divorce can be overwhelming. It is important that those going through a divorce anticipate costs of the process such as legal fees to gain an idea of the amount of money that will be needed. It is also helpful to gather as many financial statements as possible. Things such as bank statements, retirement account statements and tax returns.

Pay attention to your child during a divorce

On behalf of Reppucci & Roeder Attorneys at Law on Thursday, May 31, 2018.

Divorce is difficult for adults, but children who have to live through their parents divorcing are placed in a precarious position. These children love both parents and likely can't stand the thought of having to choose between parents. The adults in these situations need to remember that this is a hard time for the kids.

There are several things that you can do to help your children when you are divorcing. One is to remember that they have certain rights that you should make sure remain in place. While you might find that you need to add to this list based on your child's needs, here are some to get you started:

More women are paying child support these days

On behalf of Reppucci & Roeder Attorneys at Law posted in child support on Thursday, May 31, 2018.

An interesting trend is taking shape in Arizona and across the country. In recent years, there has been a dramatic increase in the number of women paying child support. Traditionally, men earned higher incomes and were noncustodial parents, so they were required to pay child support to mothers. Child support laws were put in place in every state to make sure that children get the financial support they need. More women are being ordered make these payments, since women today occupy higher paying positions and make more money than they used to.

According to recent statistics, mothers are the primary breadwinners in four our of every 10 families in America. When a marriage ends and a family breaks apart, women who are the primary breadwinners may be forced to pay child support or spousal support. Due to traditional stereotypes, many women are surprised and caught off guard when they are ordered to pay support.

Managing finances during and after a divorce

On behalf of Reppucci & Roeder Attorneys at Law posted in divorce on Thursday, May 24, 2018.

When a marriage ends, it's hard enough to manage thoughts and emotions, let alone finances. Keeping track of money and financial obligations is never easy, but the process of divorce can make managing finances even more stressful and complex. Luckily, financial help is available for Arizona residents going through a divorce.

One of the most important things to do when navigating a divorce is to close all joint credit accounts and update all records. Doing this will prevent damage to credit scores, which could hinder financial recovery post-divorce. To keep track of money coming in and flowing out, it is very helpful to create a budget. Transitioning from two incomes to one could wreak havoc on financial obligations, so keeping track of things could ease this transition.