GOLDEN VALLEY, Minn.-- Local attorney Jonathan Fogel dropped by the show today to discuss five of the most recent innovations everyone should know about before beginning the divorce process this year. Each one of these innovations is designed to make divorce less costly in terms of finances and emotions.
Here's what Jonathan highlighted:
1. OurFamilyWizard®
This is a web-based tool which provides a bridge for the difficult moments that are sure to arise when children's activities span two households. It allows parents to communicate in a manner that is thoughtful and reflective, rather than reactive. The website acts as a conduit for parents to plan for holidays, share insurance cards, keep track of shared expenses etc.
2. Parenting Time Expeditors
These are individuals appointed by the court, or agreed upon by the parties, to help make decisions on behalf of the children when parents are unable to agree. I like to think of them as referees who help parties save money on attorney's fees and help in situations where parents are trying to make changes to their parenting schedule. For example, if mom wants to take a vacation and dad disagrees because it falls during dad's parenting time, she can call the PTE and ask him/her to act as a mediator.
3. Post Nuptial Agreements
These have gained popularity in the last few years, mostly because of their use by famous celebrities. This is a written contract executed after a couple gets married. The provisions of the Post-nup can vary widely but usually include the division of property and the amount of spousal support.
4, Initial Case Management Conference
some states, the husband and wife must appear before the judge within about four weeks of the divorce being filed. This appearance is known as the Initial Case Management Conference (ICMC). At the ICMC, the parties and their attorneys meet their assigned judge in a very informal setting, everyone speaks openly and attempts are made to come to as many agreements as possible.
5. Early Neutral Evaluations
Neutral experts have long been used in the area of family law however, the change for 2011 is the timing. Many years of research has shown that the earlier divorcing couples begin working with experts, the more likely it is they will be able to come to an agreement. A neutral expert listens carefully to the parties' respective positions, studies the material, offers candid assessments each issue and helps the parties negotiate a resolution. Parties typically, end up paying a fraction of the costs associated with traditional divorce litigation and complete the process in less than three months.
For more information about Jonathan or family legal advice, call 763-746-4045 or visit www.fogellawoffices.com.