Author: Robert "Chip" Mues

Are You Divorced? Halloween Tips for Divorced Parents to Keep It Fun for Kids

PUBLISHERS NOTE: “Halloween can be very tricky for families, which is why these Halloween tips for divorced parents are so valuable. Psychotherapist Donna Ferber shares timeless advice from way back in 2010 and 2018. If you enjoy this article, you would love her book, “From Ex-Wife to Exceptional Life: A Woman’s Journey Through Divorce” available on Amazon and Kindle. Donna has retired from her professional practice and is enjoying retirement.

Halloween Tips for Divorced Parents: Making It a Positive Experience

For many kids, Halloween is one of the most important holidays of the year. The child of divorce is faced with choices and concerns. Who will take me treat-or-treating? Who will get my costume and dress me? Where will I trick-or-treat?

Then, of course, there are logistical problems for the divorced parents. By addressing these issues in advance, parents can reduce stress and not distract from the child’s positive experience. By planning ahead, you can reduce stress and keep the focus on your child’s happiness.… View Full Article → “Are You Divorced? Halloween Tips for Divorced Parents to Keep It Fun for Kids”

Do You Know the Average Cost of a Contested Divorce in 2025?

According to Divorce.com, the average cost of a contested divorce ranges between $11,000 and $25,000.

What Is the Average Cost of a Contested Divorce in 2025?

Attorney fees for a contested divorce case can be staggering! The average cost of a contested divorce in 2025 continues to rise, with many lawyers charging between $250–$400 per hour. Most lawyers will only accept representation on a divorce matter based on an hourly rate subject to the number of hours involved. According to an article by Wyzer Staffing, the 2025 hourly rate range for family lawyers is between $250 to $400 per hour.

A recent Clio Legal Trend Report states that the average attorney hourly rate is $313 per hour. In a Martindale-Nolo survey, 20% of divorce clients report paying their divorce lawyer over $400 per hour. I can tell you that I see divorce lawyers charging over $400 per hour in Dayton, Ohio, which is not an expensive part of the Country to live in.… View Full Article → “Do You Know the Average Cost of a Contested Divorce in 2025?”

The Summer is Over – School Year Preparations for Child and Parent

PUBLISHER’S NOTE: This blog is as meaningful today as it was when we originally posted it on August 9, 2014! These back-to-school tips for divorced parents remain relevant and helpful. We have updated it a bit as well! We have a ton of interesting articles in our archives of the Ohio Family Law Blog. Use our Search tool and enjoy a few oldie but goodies!

How To Prepare for A Successful School Experience – 11 Practical Back-to-School Tips for Divorced Parents.

School has started or is right around the corner for many children and their parents. This time of the year, while always somewhat stressful for children, can bring even more anxious unknowns for a child when their parents are separated. Regardless of your relationship with your former spouse, there are some essential back-to-school tips for divorced parents to ensure your children, and their teachers, are prepared for the coming year.… View Full Article → “The Summer is Over – School Year Preparations for Child and Parent”

Tips For Financially Preparing for a Divorce

Why Financial Preparation for Divorce Matters

It goes without saying, divorce is an extremely difficult and emotional journey. It can be overwhelming, and it will most likely affect and change many aspects of life including finances. Financial preparation for divorce is crucial in order to move forward in your divorce. Separating finances with two spouses can be messy. Preparing to do so in advance is smart! Each partner should do this to ensure security and stability both during the divorce proceedings and after the divorce is finalized.

There are certainly things both parties can do to financially prepare for divorce. Here are some tips for those going through this sticky situation.

Gathering Financial Documents for Financial Preparation for Divorce

One of the first steps to do is to gather all financial documents, including tax returns, all accounts including savings, checking and investment accounts, pay stubs, property records (home, land, vehicles) credit card statements, debts, and any retirement account statements such as 401K plans, IRAs, or pensions.… View Full Article → “Tips For Financially Preparing for a Divorce”

A Young Lawyer Reflects About Having Grown Up in the Midst of a Contentious Divorce – Constant Arguing is Damaging!

A child sitting between arguing parents, showing the emotional effects of divorce on children

Reducing the Long-Term Effects of Divorce on Children Through Cooperative Co-Parenting

PUBLISHER’S NOTE:
I frequently receive comments about this blog post. It was written in the spring of 2023 by Shane McDonough, who was at that time a third year law student at the University of Dayton School of Law. Shane did a great job externing for our firm, and is now enjoying a fine legal career in Chicago. Well done Shane, and it was great chatting with you this week!

Understanding the Emotional Effects of Divorce on Children

If there is one positive aspect of my parents’ divorce, it is that I was too young to understand the effects of divorce on children. I was around two and a half years old when my parents were divorced.

Although I have no recollection of the divorce proceedings or the ensuing months following the proceedings, one of my first memories is a supervised visitation meeting with my dad.… View Full Article → “A Young Lawyer Reflects About Having Grown Up in the Midst of a Contentious Divorce – Constant Arguing is Damaging!”

What to Expect at the Final Dissolution Hearing in Ohio

What Happens at the Final Dissolution Hearing in Ohio?

The final dissolution hearing in Ohio is the last step in the legal process of dissolving a marriage. According to Ohio Revised Code Section 3105.64, the final hearing must be scheduled not less than 30 days nor more than 90 days after the filing of the petition for dissolution of marriage. Prior to the final dissolution hearing in Ohio, the Compliance Office will review your documents to ensure they meet the Court’s local rules and include all required language. Often edits are required before the hearing will proceed.

In a dissolution proceeding, agreements have been reached by the parties and the hearing simply puts those agreements into place, making them legally enforceable. The hearing allows the court to confirm that both parties fully understand and accept the terms outlined in the documents. During the hearing, the Judge will review the separation agreement to ensure it is fair and meets Ohio’s legal standards.… View Full Article → “What to Expect at the Final Dissolution Hearing in Ohio”

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