The Greatest Gift for Your Kids: Why ‘Winning’ a Divorce is the Wrong Goal

Collaborative divorce in Ohio

A Better Path: Collaborative Divorce in Ohio

In my 40+ years of practicing divorce litigation, I’ve seen a common thread: parents walk into court wanting to “win,” only to realize later that the “battle” cost them far more than they gained. For many families considering collaborative divorce in Ohio, the goal isn’t to win a battle—it’s to reach a fair resolution while protecting the children involved.

When children are involved, the traditional notion of winning-getting more assets, paying less support, or “proving” the other spouse was wrong-often backfires. The real end goal should be arriving at a fair result while protecting the emotional health of your family. It’s important to note that Ohio’s legal landscape is catching up to this philosophy.

These changes are also relevant to parents considering collaborative divorce in Ohio. Recent changes, including Senate Bill 174, are moving our courts away from high-conflict terms like “custody” and “visitation.”… View Full Article → “The Greatest Gift for Your Kids: Why ‘Winning’ a Divorce is the Wrong Goal”

Extracurricular Activities After Divorce-When Schedules Become a Battlefield

extracurricular activities after divorce

Extracurricular Activities After Divorce: Ohio Parents Need to Know

Extracurricular activities after divorce can be a source of stability and personal growth for children, but they can also become a major source of conflict between parents. I have previously posted a blog discussing the many benefits extracurricular activities can provide children, including improved academic performance, stronger self-esteem, and reduced risk of behavioral issues. However, even in intact households, managing practices, games, and lessons can be exhausting. In a divorced family, the logistical and emotional strain is often amplified—and what was once a positive outlet for a child can quickly become a major source of conflict.

Divorce does not eliminate a child’s interests, talents, or need for healthy structure. If anything, extracurricular activities can provide a sense of stability during a time when many other parts of a child’s life feel uncertain. But divorced parents must recognize that extracurricular activities also create unique scheduling and financial pressures that can become flashpoints in custody and parenting time disputes.… View Full Article → “Extracurricular Activities After Divorce-When Schedules Become a Battlefield”