Staying Married After Baby: Advice To New Parents

new babyOnce the miracle of birth has given way to the harsh reality of sleep deprivation and projectile vomit, marital bliss almost always takes a nosedive. Studies show that the decline in relationship satisfaction at time goes by is twice as steep for couples with kids as it is for child-free couples. So while you’re baby-proofing your house, be sure to baby-proof your marriage! Here are some tips to help you stay strong as a couple so you can raise well-adjusted children. Read more

Parental Alienation & The Law In New Jersey

parental-alienation What is your legal recourse when you recognize that your ex is is attempting to alienate you from your kids? Here are concrete steps you can take to protect your relationship with your children, starting right now! Read more

Court Rules on Dad’s Bad Behavior At Child’s Little League Game

bad parent behaviorWe see — and hear them — at baseball fields, hockey arenas, and wherever kids play sports:  parents who think nothing of screaming at coaches, referees, other parents, and their children. Is your ex one of them? Find out what happened when one fed-up former spouse went to court to have her child’s other parent barred from sporting events for bad behavior. Read more

Custody Battles: How Bad Could It Get?

legal help for child abuse

Every child custody battle is rough, but when the entire marriage has been rife with conflict, the parties are in for a particularly bumpy ride. What does a “worst  case scenario” custody fight look like? Read on for warring spouses Jake and Abby’s story… Read more

What is Paternity and How Does It Affect My Rights in New Jersey?

paternity and fathers rightsHave questions about paternity? Here’s what you need to know about establishing fatherhood in New Jersey, and the legal rights and responsibilities that come with paternity.

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Going Above the Guidelines: Child Support For Your Special Kid

child supportWe all think our children are special, extraordinary and talented. But, what if you are raising the next Michael Jordan? What happens when your child has an exceptional gift for music? Or for art? Without question, your child’s amazing talent comes with expenses in the form of lessons, practice, travel and supplies. Who is responsible for paying these costs? And, are they covered by New Jersey’s Child Support Guidelines? Read more

Top Tips for Overcoming Parental Alienation

recognizing parental alienationThankfully more and more courts here in New Jersey are recognizing and addressing cases of parental alienation when they come before the family judges. If you believe that your child has been subjected to parental alienation tactics what can you do? Here are some tips to overcome this situation: Read more

Parallel Parenting: When Co-Parenting Doesn’t Work

parallel parentingSome people will never be able to co-parent effectively. No amount of mediation, therapy, or positive thinking will get them there. Sound familiar? If you are stuck in a high conflict divorce, or if the conflict continues although your divorce was finalized long ago…it may be time to learn about parallel parenting, a form of parenting that can ease the tension when parents don’t get along.

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How To Raise A Secure Child – Even In A Bad Divorce

divorce and parenting

When not handled well, divorce can make it difficult for children to achieve the most important goal of childhood: feeling securely attached to their caregivers. That doesn’t mean this goal can’t be achieved, but it does require that divorced parents be vigilant about providing reassurance and consistency in their children’s lives – especially in situations where one parent is minimally involved. How can you help your child form healthy attachments? Read on for important information every divorcing parent should know… Read more

Thanksgiving With the Step-Kids

thanksgiving-step-childrenExcited…but also a little apprehensive about spending your first Thanksgiving with your new blended family? Holiday meals can be awkward for any family, but they can also be warm, welcoming and funny! In the age of blended families, remarriages and step-kids, no two Thanksgiving celebrations look the same. How can you manage a relaxed Thanksgiving with your new step-children? Read more