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Tag Archives: Divorce
Tax Implications of Divorce in Arizona
The Tax Implications of Divorce in Arizona an article by By Timothy Durkin, Attorney at Law Divorce, also known in Arizona as the dissolution of marriage, is the official termination of your marriage in the eyes of the state. Although … Continue reading
What if only one half of the couple wants to get divorced?
Divorce for One, Please
Westfield Mediation, LLC
© 2013
What if only one half of the couple wants to get divorced?
As divorce mediators, we often hear this question. Generally, both people know that their marriage is rocky. But often, only one spouse feels ready to end it. The reasons vary – maybe one person is more willing to deal with conflict than the other, or one person feels more ready to start fresh. Sometimes, it just takes one person longer than the other to accept that it is not working out. Still, as we tell our divorce mediation clients, if one spouse wants a divorce, it will usually happen. It may just take longer and be more complicated than if both parties agree.
Legally, the divorce process begins when one spouse files a divorce complaint in court. And even if the other party never responds, the divorce can still go forward. This kind of “divorce by default” is doable, but it’s not in either party’s best interest because the agreement doesn’t include the kind of compromises that ensure that both people will follow through. It also involves expensive, time-consuming litigation.
View the entire article here: Divorce for One, Please
Click here for more information about Westfield Mediation, LLC
Writing in the sand
I was cleaning up some old files this morning and came across the monthly newsletter we published back in January 2002. In it I had written about the story of two friends walking through the dessert. This story still resonates … Continue reading
Child Support Enforcement
The Child Support Enforcement Program is a partnership between the Federal, state and local governments. It is part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The program is authorized and defined by statute,Title IV-D of the Social Security … Continue reading
Just a few thoughts
Thoughts for today…… “Relationships are like glass. Sometimes it’s better to leave them broken than try to hurt yourself putting it back together.” ~ Anonymous “I was never one to patiently pick up broken fragments and glue them together again … Continue reading
Letting go of the grudge
It’s about to happen again – a family milestone. This time it’s the birth a grandchild. This should be one of the most joyous experiences. Notice the emphasis on the word “should”? Unfortunately the reality is that the grandparents are … Continue reading
Mourning Your Marriage
I read a press release this morning titled “Dating Websites Providing More Divorce Evidence Says Survey: Nation’s Top Matrimonial Lawyers Cite Match.com as Most Common Source” from the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML). It stated “If you are married, … Continue reading
Posted in Divorce, Moving On
Tagged dating, Divorce, mourning your marriage, Moving on
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Divorce Court Room Tips
There is no easy part of getting divorced, especially if there is litigation involved. Unfortunately for me my divorce was very litigious. Few things gave me the feeling of dread more than walking into the courtroom… and the first time was the worst!
Here are a few tips that may help take away some of the anxiety of going to court. It also never hurts to make a good impression on the judge and these guidelines make that much easier.

- Don’t be late. This seems pretty obvious, but seriously, arrive on time. It’s all about respect.
- Leave your attitude at home. Do not make faces or gestures when the judge or your spouse’s attorney is speaking. Judges see this and do not appreciate it.
- Dress appropriately. I’m sure you’ve heard the expression “You can’t judge a book by its cover”. Unfortunately some judges just might. Why take the chance. Men should wear slacks, a jacket and a tie. Women should wear a skirt or dress slacks and a modest blouse. There is no place in the court room for jeans, shorts, revealing clothes or flip flops. If you aren’t sure how to dress consult your attorney on how he/she wants you to dress.
- If you have an attorney do not speak unless asked to do so by the Judge.
- “Your Honor” is the appropriate way to address the Judge.
- Always thank the Judge when you are finished speaking. Again, it’s all about respect.
- Only speak when you are spoken to. Never speak to or make comments to your opposition when you are before the Judge. If you need to communicate with your divorce attorney write it on a notepad.
For more helpful courtroom tips visit Divorce Court Room Tips
Certified Divorce Financial Planner
Divorce affects every aspect of your life, your emotions, your legal standing and your finances. Most people wouldn’t think of getting divorced without hiring an attorney, and rightly so. A qualified attorney that specializes in divorce and family law will … Continue reading
Mother’s Day is coming…don’t let it get you down
With Mother’s Day quickly approaching I think back to when my daughter was young and I can’t help but smile. You see even when my ex and I were together he couldn’t be bothered with Mother’s Day so my expectations … Continue reading



