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What Makes a Marriage Invalid in St. Charles?

Marriages are frequently ended through divorce, but they can also be found invalid and ended through annulment. While divorce proceedings dissolve a marriage, annulling a marriage means it legally did not exist. An annulment is not possible for every couple wanting to end their marriage. There are certain reasons why a couple could get an annulment in Missouri. If you qualify, an annulment could be a more straightforward way to separate. However, it’s important to understand when an annulment is or isn’t beneficial. Understanding an Annulment A divorce ends a marriage from the date of separation, while an annulment determines

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What to Consider in a High-Asset Divorce

Every divorce has complex legal issues coupled with emotional hurdles. High-asset or high-net-worth divorces can be even more complicated. High-asset divorces require extra care and attention for issues like property evaluation, business ownership determinations, property division, alimony, and tax impacts. These divorces may be higher profile and take longer than other divorces because of the high number and value of assets. There are several things to consider before beginning a high-asset divorce. Examining and Categorizing Assets Any divorce requires documentation of assets and debts. This is even more essential in a high-asset divorce, as the court or mediation proceedings will

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What Do I Do If My Spouse Won’t Sign the Divorce Papers?

Any divorce is a complicated and difficult process, both legally and emotionally. Even amicable spouses have a lot of stressful hurdles. In some cases, the issue that one spouse faces is that the other party refuses to sign the divorce papers. In these situations where divorces are very contested, divorce proceedings can be longer and more draining. It’s important to know what to do if you face this situation. Why Spouses Refuse to Sign Papers Some respondent spouses believe that if they don’t respond to or acknowledge the divorce papers, they can avoid or draw out a divorce. Some spouses

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Understanding Protective Orders in St. Charles, Missouri

Filing a protective order in Missouri can help protect you from violence or otherwise dangerous situations. If you are unsafe, it’s important that you file a protective order to keep yourself or your loved ones legally protected. Types of Protective Orders in Missouri A protective order is a court order by the state to prevent a person from harming or harassing another person. It is granted on behalf of a person who has suffered domestic violence by a present or current member of their household or has been a victim of sexual assault or stalking. If a protective order is

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What Is Divorce Mediation and Is It Right for You?

The media often depicts divorces as contentious, involving heated arguments that tear families apart. In reality, this is not always the case. In fact, many divorces are quite amicable, and both parties act with dignity. It can be difficult to determine which way your divorce process will go. Some couples enter divorce feeling unified and open to communication but ultimately have difficulty with all the details. Others feel combative at first but end up unifying around a common goal. If you and your spouse are open to communication and collaboration during the divorce process, mediation may be an option for

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Understanding the Connection Between Domestic Violence and Substance Abuse

Domestic violence and substance abuse are significant problems affecting many individuals worldwide. Unfortunately, these two issues often occur together. Victims of domestic violence often experience substance abuse. Individuals with substance abuse issues are also frequently involved in domestic violence situations. Understanding the link between these two problems is essential for developing effective strategies to address them. The Link Between Domestic Violence and Substance Abuse Substance abuse can lower inhibitions and increase aggression. When people abuse drugs or alcohol, they often experience a loss of inhibition and control, which can lead to increased violent behavior. This can manifest as verbal, emotional,

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From Blended to Bonded: Navigating the Legalities of Adoption and Stepparenting

Adoption and stepparenting are two significant life events that bring along a range of challenges. This can make the transition from a blended to a bonded family unit quite complicated. The complexities involved can range from blending two families, handling different parenting styles, or finding one’s footing in a new dynamic. However, you can build a harmonious and loving family environment with the right approach, patience, and understanding. Be Patient Adopting or becoming a stepparent involves significant changes, and forming a blended or bonded family takes time. Be patient and allow yourself and your family time to adjust. Don’t expect

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The Complications of Dementia and Will Planning

Planning your will can be a stressful and emotional endeavor. For those with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, the task of writing and finalizing a will can be complicated. Between memory loss, failing cognitive capabilities, and difficulty with speaking, dementia can be devastatingly difficult to deal with. However, when trying to form a document that stipulates who receives your possessions, dementia can drastically affect your ability to create a will that dictates your true wishes. Dementia impacts millions of Americans each year, half of whom are living past the age of 85. Diseases like early onset dementia, however,

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How To Speak With Your Kids About Divorce

Divorce is a complex and emotional topic for anyone to discuss. It can be even more complicated when you are going through it. You may feel like you are walking on eggshells around your kids, not knowing what to say or how to say it. This can lead to unhealthy communication habits, like withholding information or being too vague, leaving kids feeling confused, suspicious, and less likely to trust you. To protect your relationship with your kids and help them understand and cope with this significant life change, here are some tips on how to talk to them about divorce:

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Preparing for the Holidays With a Custody Order After Divorce in St. Charles, MO

The holiday season is typically demanding for parents, especially divorced parents beholden to strict custody orders. So, if you are living in St. Charles and bracing for your first holiday season as a divorced parent, it’s natural to worry about the potential conflicts you might face with your co-parent as you balance your respective holiday schedules. When parents share custody of their children and live relatively close to one another in the St. Charles area, their custody order is likely to require them to split the time they spend with their children on each holiday. The children may spend the

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Revisiting Your Estate Plan After Divorce in St. Charles, MO

Divorce can upheave anyone’s life in various ways, from the time they have to spend with their children to their financial situation and everyday work schedule. Most divorced individuals must acclimate to new living arrangements while managing their responsibilities under their divorce order. While adjusting to your post-divorce life is likely to be challenging in various ways, it’s vital to give estate planning appropriate consideration. Whether you already have an estate plan in place or need to create one, your divorce has likely altered your end-of-life plans and goals in various ways. An experienced estate planning attorney is a vital

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How to Prepare for a Child Custody Determination in St. Charles, MO

A child custody dispute is likely the most challenging experience of any parent’s life. When married parents divorce, or when unmarried parents decide they do not want to raise their children as a couple, they must resolve parental rights and responsibilities formally through the St. Charles, MO, family court system. Custody determinations must unfold at the family court’s discretion; this is not an issue couples can resolve privately. If you are bracing for a child custody determination as a standalone family court issue or as part of a larger divorce, it’s vital to have legal representation you can trust to

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