Bird nesting, where children remain in the family home while parents alternate staying there, may seem like a stable arrangement post-divorce. However, it comes with significant challenges that can strain relationships and impact both parents and children. Here are...
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Child Custody
What parents need to know about legal custody
The terms used to discuss custody when parents divorce or separate can confuse many people. For example, parents in West Michigan may not understand the concept of legal custody. They may confuse legal custody with parentage or with a custody order. Legal custody is...
Dealing with a “Disney” parent during the holidays
The holidays are supposed to be utterly magical – and they really can be special for a lot of families, especially those with young children. However, when you’re dealing with a “Disney” co-parent who wants to sweep in and shower the kids with extravagant gifts most...
Why mortgage refinancing may be necessary after divorce
You may have the option to keep your house when getting divorced. For instance, your ex may be willing to take other assets – a savings account, investments, other types of real estate, etc – in exchange for their 50% ownership of the house. Instead of selling it...
Communication essentials for divorcing parents
Untangling two lives can be complex and emotionally taxing, making it hard for spouses to communicate. However, productive communication between the two parties is essential during a divorce. It is about more than communicating long enough to resolve your divorce...
3 parenting styles co-parents should know about
Co-parenting involves divorced or separated parents working together to raise their children despite no longer being in a romantic relationship. This journey can be challenging, but with dedication and effective communication, it is entirely possible to co-parent...
Michigan Supreme Court ruling expands rights for LGBTQ+ parents
There’s no question that the rights of LGBTQ+ Americans have expanded in recent years and that Michigan is ahead of many other states in that journey. However, when it comes to parental rights, things can still be challenging. In many cases, only one partner is the...
Is birdnesting a good idea for divorced couples?
Divorce is undeniably challenging, not only for the couple involved but especially for the children caught in the crossfire. As couples seek innovative solutions to ease the transition for their children, the concept of birdnesting has gained attention. But is...
How to address parental alienation post-divorce
Parental alienation is a complex and emotionally charged issue that can arise in the aftermath of a divorce. As families navigate the challenging terrain of post-divorce life, it's crucial to address and mitigate the impact of parental alienation on children. ...
How to create a parenting plan that works
Co-parenting may be less difficult for divorced parents in Michigan who have spent time constructing a plan that sets them up for success. Going beyond simply creating a plan that addresses the basics can give parents a framework for resolving conflict. Scheduling The...