Navigating blended family dynamics is challenging, but Lori and Dave Sims have pioneered a method that has proven effective for many stepparents. Their approach, known as the “Nacho Kids” method, focuses on understanding roles, setting boundaries, improving communication, and supporting one another. Here’s a closer look at the most impactful lessons from their experience. Understanding Your Role as a Stepparent Lori and Dave learned some crucial lessons on their journey, which have helped them find peace and balance at home: 1. Understanding Limits in Stepparenting Lori and Dave’s journey unde ..read more

In family law, the journey doesn’t end with the final judgment; enforcing that judgment is often the next critical step. Whether it’s ensuring parenting time is respected or securing financial judgments, the path to enforcement is paved with specific legal statutes and rules. Based on the insights from the 2023 advanced family law CLE presentation, we delve into the mechanisms that uphold the power of court orders in Arizona. Enforcing Parenting Time Orders Parenting time violations can deeply affect the child-parent relationship. Rule 91 and Rule 91.5 come into play when a parent seeks to ..read more

Now that technology has not only transformed our daily lives but also the dynamics of post-separation interactions, Modern Law has been seeing questions in our Modern Divorce Support Group on Facebook that ask how to deal with stalking by your ex. In the following example, a father found himself unwittingly tracked by his ex-wife using the Life360 app installed on their son’s phone. This instance sheds light on the digital age’s complexities in handling privacy, trust, and boundaries post-divorce. The Fine Line Between Safety and Stalking In the digital era, tracking apps like Life360 are ofte ..read more

In the world of family law, steering a case against a narcissist can feel like venturing into uncharted and turbulent waters. Individuals who find themselves in this challenging situation, especially those representing themselves, may feel overwhelmed by the complexity and manipulative tactics often employed by narcissistic opponents. However, with the right approach and tools, it’s possible to develop a strategy that not only withstands these challenges but also positions you for a successful outcome. For those self representing in an effort to save money on legal costs, or working with one o ..read more

When first acquainting yourself with the landscape involving child support, understanding what constitutes “Gross Income” is crucial. The definitions of “Gross Income” and “Adjusted Gross Income” for child support purposes diverge significantly from their meanings in tax contexts. Here’s a breakdown of key considerations and elements included in child support calculations. Gross vs. Adjusted Gross Income For child support calculations, the Arizona Child Support Guidelines provide specific definitions for these terms, distinct from tax terminology. It’s vital to set aside tax-related conception ..read more

Selling a home amidst a divorce presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. During such emotional times, the financial implications of selling a shared property can either pave the way for a secure financial future or, if mismanaged, lead to long-term repercussions for both parties involved. Drawing from insights shared by Billie Tarascio from Modern Law and Arizona real estate agent Zach Nuetzman, who specializes in assisting divorcing couples, this blog aims to shed light on how to approach the sale of a family home during divorce proceedings, ensuring that financial ruin is avoid ..read more

How To Approach Child Support in High-Income Households Child support calculations can become complex, especially in scenarios involving high-income families. Suppose you find yourself in a situation where you and your child have been accustomed to a lavish lifestyle, thanks to a high-earning spouse. The dissolution of such a union raises concerns about maintaining the standard of living for your child. Here’s a closer look at how child support is calculated and the possibilities for adjustments in cases of significant wealth disparity. Understanding Child Support Calculations In Arizona, chil ..read more

In family court, the quest for sole custody is both emotionally charged and complex. The distinction between sole legal decision-making and sole physical custody (parenting time) is crucial, each with its distinct challenges and strategies for success. Understanding the Differences Legal Decision-Making vs. Parenting Time: Sole legal decision-making grants you the authority to make significant decisions for your child without the other parent’s agreement. On the other hand, sole physical custody pertains to where and with whom the child primarily resides. Strategies for Legal Decision-Making ..read more

When criminal justice and family matters intertwine, the expertise of seasoned professionals like Beth Hoel Goulden becomes indispensable. With 25 years of experience at Maricopa County Adult Probation and a specialization in sex offenses, Goulden brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. She recently shared her experience with Modern Law family attorneys who sometimes find themselves helping clients dealing with criminal issues, particularly as they relate to sex offenses. Sex Offenses: Not a Monolith Sex offenses encompass a range of behaviors and circumstances, with the legal system often ..read more

Divorce is hard on the whole family, and kids often get stuck in the middle. Wouldn’t you like your child to have the “cheat code” to success for the rest of their life? Today’s kids are growing up connected more to their devices than to each other, creating an unprecedented change in children leaving them vulnerable to isolation, with an extra helping of helplessness. For listeners of the Modern Divorce Podcast, it may be a child suffering the emotional issues of a newly split family. But that can change, with real relationships that develop emotional intelligence and self confidence. The Cha ..read more