Minimize the Negative Impact That Divorce Can Have on Children
January 20, 2023

In honor of International Child-Centered Divorce Month, which is celebrated every January, today's blog focuses on the impact that divorce can have on children and how to reduce the negative emotional and psychological effects they commonly experience. The child’s personality and the parents’ relationship before, during, and after the divorce dramatically impacts how the child is able to process and deal with the divorce. 

 

Children of all ages, even as adults, may experience behavioral problems and social adjustment issues due to divorce.. However, when divorcing parents act responsibly and prioritize the health and wellbeing of their children, kids of all ages fare significantly better. 

 

Divorces that are especially contentious and ugly can lead to all kinds of serious problems for the children. Sports, grades, and overall academics are frequently impacted. A child who is struggling with a painful divorce can exhibit behavioral problems, which may involve angry outbursts and aggressive behavior, or even becoming completely withdrawn. In some cases, divorce can take a toll on the child’s physical health, making them vulnerable to illness and infection. 

 

Tips for a Peaceful Divorce

 

Although divorce can be difficult on children, it is sometimes the best (or only) option for the family. Constant fighting, especially when the fighting becomes abusive, is highly detrimental to children. Divorce can be handled responsibly and in a positive manner even if you and your spouse are experiencing conflict in your relationship. If you have decided that divorce is the best option for you and your family, here are some tips to minimize the negative impact on your children. 

 

Avoid speaking negatively about the other parent. 

 

We have seen it all, and we understand how infuriating an ex-spouse can be during and after divorce. But speaking badly about the other parent often results in the child internalizing that information and identifying with these negative characteristics. It’s always best to take the high road. Vent to your friends or therapist, but not to your kids. Children need to feel connected to both of their parents. Focus on what you can do to strengthen your child’s relation ship with their other parent.

 

Avoid oversharing with your kids. 

 

In today’s day and age of open communication and extreme honesty between parents and children, some divorcing parents believe it’s in their child’s best interest to openly discuss the divorce, rather than keeping their kid in the dark. But discussing matters of child support, the divorce settlement, and how unfair your ex is being is not in your child’s best interest.

 

Take care of yourself. 

 

You know what they say about putting on your own oxygen mask before helping your child put on theirs? If you are disregarding your own needs, this will inevitably impact your emotional health. And when it comes to raising healthy, happy children, nothing is more important than love and emotional stability. If your mental health is suffering because you are sacrificing your own needs for “the greater good,” your children are bound to suffer as well. Get plenty of rest, try to exercise, eat well, surround yourself with friends, do things that make you happy, and seek therapy if you need to. 

 

Introduce new partners slowly. 

 

Despite your excitement and enthusiasm for your new relationship, it’s best not to introduce a child to a new partner until you have been dating for several months (the longer the better) and are fairly sure that you’re in it for the long haul. Introducing someone too early risks exposing them to another break up in a short period of time. 

 

Consider mediation. 

 

The process of mediation can be a wonderful alternative to traditional divorce. In addition to being less contentious and stressful, mediation is typically quicker and less expensive. It also promotes an open dialogue between the divorcing spouses in an informal setting. Consider having your attorney attend mediation with you if you prefer to have their support in negotiating your divorce agreement.

 

Mediation is often much easier on children because it tends to result in a better long-term relationship between the parents. All that being said, mediation is not advisable in divorces that are highly contentious or that involve physical or emotional abuse. 

 

Contact a Vermont Divorce Lawyer Today

 

Whether you are just considering divorce or you are in the midst of a particularly challenging divorce, the skilled family law team at Bergeron, Paradis & Fitzpatrick can help. Contact us today for a confidential consultation about your case. 

Avoiding an Adult Guardianship: How to Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones

December 11, 2023
In life, we often plan for the expected and the unexpected. Yet, when it comes to addressing potential incapacity in adulthood, many individuals and families are unprepared. Although adult guardianship may be presented as an option for helping a loved one who is unable to make health, financial, or personal care decisions on their own, it can be an expensive, intrusive, and slow process that may not align with your wishes or timeline. At Bergeron, Paradis & Fitzpatrick, we believe in empowering our clients to plan for the future while avoiding the need for adult guardianship whenever possible. Read on to discover why avoiding adult guardianship is a prudent choice and discuss alternative ways of planning for incapacity. The Downsides of Adult Guardianship Expense and Intrusiveness One of the primary reasons to avoid adult guardianship is the financial burden it can impose. The process involves court fees, legal expenses, and ongoing oversight, which can quickly add up. Prior to the establishment of guardianship, the person in need of protection must undergo an intrusive evaluation by a court-appointed evaluator. Furthermore, it can be emotionally taxing, as it involves the court appointing a guardian to make decisions for an incapacitated individual. These decisions may not align with your preferences and values, or the preferences and values of your loved one. Delays in Receiving Support Adult guardianship is a time-consuming legal process that can result in significant delays in obtaining necessary support and care for you or your loved one. While awaiting court decisions, the individual for whom guardianship is being sought may be left without the assistance they so urgently need. This is especially critical in situations where immediate medical or financial decisions are required. Loss of Autonomy Avoiding an adult guardianship is not only about saving time and money; it's about maintaining autonomy and ensuring that the individual’s needs are met promptly and in alignment with their wishes. Alternative Ways to Plan for Incapacity Planning for incapacity is a crucial aspect of estate planning that can help you and your loved ones avoid the complexities and expenses associated with adult guardianship. It provides peace of mind and ensures that your wishes are respected. Advance Directives Advance directives, such as living wills and healthcare proxies, allow individuals to express their medical wishes and appoint a trusted agent to make healthcare decisions on their behalf. These documents ensure that medical care aligns with your preferences, eliminating the need for guardianship in healthcare matters. Durable Powers of Attorney Durable powers of attorney grant someone you trust (an agent) the authority to manage financial and legal affairs on your behalf if you become incapacitated. This provides a seamless transition of decision-making and eliminates the need for a court-appointed guardian to manage your finances. Revocable Trusts A revocable trust allows you to transfer assets into a trust while maintaining control over them during your lifetime. In the event of incapacity, the successor trustee you've appointed can manage and distribute assets according to your instructions. This can avoid the need for a guardian to handle financial matters. Contact a Vermont Estate Planning Law Firm Today At Bergeron, Paradis & Fitzpatrick, we specialize in estate planning and can help you create a comprehensive plan tailored to your unique circumstances. Our experienced attorneys can guide you through the process of establishing advance directives, durable powers of attorney, and revocable trusts to protect your loved ones and your assets. The dedicated team of legal professionals at Bergeron, Paradis & Fitzpatrick is here to provide you with the guidance and support you need. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start building a plan that puts your family's well-being first. Your peace of mind is our priority.

Common Legal Issues in Real Estate

March 15, 2023
Real estate transactions are complex and typically involve substantial sums of money. As such, they are fertile ground for a variety of legal issues, from contract disputes to title issues. Anytime you are dealing with an investment of this size, it’s in your best interest to seek legal counsel. Whether you’re buying or selling, an unexpected legal matter can easily derail your plans and cost you significant time, money, and resources. Although most real estate legal issues can occur in any type of real estate transaction and in any location across the country, some potential legal hurdles are unique to Vermont. Below we discuss some of the most common legal issues in real estate in Vermont and nationwide. Real Estate Legal Issues That Can Occur Anywhere in the U.S. Let’s start by addressing common legal issues that can arise in real estate transactions anywhere in the country. Property disputes: This can occur when there is a disagreement over the ownership or boundaries of a property. Property disputes can arise due to boundary encroachment, easement disputes, or competing claims to the property. Non-disclosure: This occurs when a seller fails to disclose a known defect in the property to the buyer. Failure to disclose can result in a breach of contract or fraud. Zoning and land use regulations: Local zoning laws regulate how property can be used and developed. Violations of zoning regulations can lead to legal disputes, fines, and even property seizure. Title issues: Title issues arise when there is a problem with the ownership history of a property. Common title issues include liens, judgments, and easements that can affect the transfer of ownership. Contract disputes: Disputes may arise when there is a disagreement over the terms of a real estate contract. For example, a buyer may back out of a deal due to a disagreement over repairs or financing. Environmental issues: Environmental concerns can arise when there is a contamination or other hazardous material on a property. This can lead to legal issues and liability for the property owner. Foreclosure and bankruptcy: Foreclosure occurs when a property owner defaults on a mortgage loan. Bankruptcy can also impact real estate transactions and ownership rights. It is important to work with an experienced VT real estate attorney to navigate these legal issues and protect your rights as a buyer or seller. Real Estate Legal Issues Unique to Vermont The above legal matters can occur in any state and locality, but the issues below are unique to — or particularly common in — the state of Vermont. Land use regulations: Vermont has strict land use regulations, including Act 250, which regulates development projects that meet certain size or environmental criteria. Additionally, Vermont's "smart growth" laws aim to encourage development in designated downtown areas and discourage development in rural areas. Environmental concerns: Vermont is known for its natural beauty and environmental consciousness, and environmental issues are an important consideration in real estate transactions. For example, properties may need to be tested for radon gas, which is common in the state. Property taxes: Vermont has relatively high property taxes compared to other states, and the state's property tax system can be complex. For example, properties are assessed at their "fair market value," which can be subject to interpretation. Homeowner associations: Vermont has laws governing homeowner associations (HOAs), which are common in many real estate developments. These laws outline the rights and responsibilities of HOAs and their members, and can be complex. Foreclosure laws: Vermont has specific laws governing foreclosure proceedings, including a requirement for mediation before foreclosure can proceed. Property disclosure requirements: Vermont requires sellers to disclose certain information about their property to potential buyers, such as the presence of lead-based paint, underground storage tanks, and other environmental hazards. Anyone considering buying or selling property in Vermont should consult with a qualified real estate attorney to ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations. Contact a Vermont Real Estate Attorney Today If you are involved in any type of real estate transaction, the skilled legal team at Bergeron, Paradis & Fitzpatrick can help. Contact us today for a confidential consultation about your case.
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