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Divorce and Family Law Office of Joanne Kleiner

Divorce Lawyer Joanne Kleiner

child custody

Oct 31, 2024

Divorce Trends: What Couples Need to Know

Divorce remains a significant life event that affects millions of couples worldwide each year. Understanding the latest trends in divorce and hiring an experienced divorce lawyer can help couples make informed decisions about their future, whether they’re considering separation, navigating divorce proceedings, or contemplating mediation as an alternative to litigation. The past few years have seen unique shifts in divorce trends, with changing perspectives on marriage, financial pressures, and social factors all playing a role. Here, we’ll explore the latest trends and what they mean for couples in 2024.

1. Divorce Rates Have Remained Stable Overall

According to recent statistics from the CDC, the divorce rate in the United States has held steady at around 2.7 divorces per 1,000 population in recent years. This rate reflects a significant decline from earlier decades, with some experts attributing this stability to delayed marriages, a greater emphasis on compatibility, and a shift in societal views on marriage. Despite this stability, approximately 40-50% of marriages in the United States still end in divorce, underscoring the importance of preparation and communication in relationships.

2. Divorce Among Older Couples Continues to Rise

One notable trend is the increase in divorce among couples over the age of 50—a phenomenon often referred to as “gray divorce.” According to a study by the Pew Research Center, the divorce rate for adults aged 50 and older has doubled since the 1990s. For those 65 and older, the rate has nearly tripled. Several factors contribute to this rise, including increased financial independence, longer life expectancy, and shifting expectations for retirement. Gray divorce often involves complex asset division, retirement funds, and spousal support, making experienced legal guidance crucial.

3. The Popularity of Alternative Ways to Divorce

As couples look for alternatives to traditional divorce litigation, mediation, collaborative divorce, and amicable divorce have become increasingly popular. Mediation, in which a neutral third party facilitates communication between both parties, can reduce the time and cost associated with divorce. According to the American Bar Association, mediation typically costs 40-60% less than litigation. Collaborative divorce, a process where both parties work with legal and financial professionals to reach an agreement outside of court, is also gaining traction. In 2024, more couples are choosing these approaches to minimize conflict and promote cooperative resolution.

At the Law Office of Joanne E. Kleiner, we believe that out of court settlement options are better for kids and often cost less while helping couples find fair and respectful solutions without the stress of court battles. These approaches offer a way to handle divorce with greater control and confidentiality, which can be especially beneficial for families with children.

4. Economic Uncertainty Influences Divorce Decisions

Economic pressures continue to influence divorce decisions. Financial strain, whether from inflation, job instability, or rising costs of living, can increase marital tension and prompt couples to reevaluate their relationships. According to a survey by the Institute for Family Studies, nearly 40% of couples reported that financial stress had negatively impacted their marriage. Furthermore, economic factors can delay divorce for some, as individuals feel financially unable to support themselves independently.

In this context, couples are increasingly mindful of the costs associated with divorce. Budget-conscious divorces often prioritize alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, over costly litigation. Mediation allows couples to control the pace and focus on cost-effective solutions, making it a valuable option for those facing financial uncertainty.

5. Custody Arrangements Are Becoming More Flexible

Historically, custody arrangements often favored mothers as primary caregivers, with limited visitation for fathers. However, this trend has shifted dramatically over the past decade. Today, nearly 50% of divorcing parents share joint custody, reflecting a growing recognition of the importance of both parents’ roles in child development. Many family courts now prioritize joint custody arrangements whenever possible, aiming to support children’s best interests through balanced parenting time.

This shift has led to more flexible and customized custody plans, allowing families to create schedules that accommodate work commitments, school activities, and special events. At the Law Office of Joanne E. Kleiner, we emphasize child-centered solutions in divorce mediation, helping parents work collaboratively to develop a plan that prioritizes stability and well-being.

6. Digital Communication and Online Mediation Are on the Rise

As technology continues to shape every aspect of our lives, digital communication has entered the world of divorce proceedings. Virtual mediation has gained popularity, allowing couples to participate in mediation sessions from their own homes. Online mediation provides a convenient, accessible option for couples who may be living in different locations or facing travel limitations.

Studies indicate that online mediation is just as effective as in-person sessions, with some couples finding the virtual format reduces emotional tension. According to a 2022 survey by the International Mediation Institute, over 70% of participants reported high satisfaction with online mediation. For couples who value privacy, convenience, and reduced face-to-face confrontation, virtual mediation can be a highly effective solution.

7. Mental Health Awareness is Redefining Divorce

Mental health awareness has become a more significant factor in divorce and co-parenting arrangements. Couples are increasingly aware of the impact of stress and conflict on their mental health, as well as on their children’s emotional well-being. Mental health considerations play a role in parenting plans, with many parents opting for family counseling to support their children during the transition.

The Law Office of Joanne E. Kleiner recognizes the importance of mental health in divorce proceedings. We work with a network of counselors, therapists, and mental health professionals to ensure that clients have access to the emotional support they need. Our approach is designed to create a supportive environment that prioritizes mental wellness for all family members.

8. DIY Divorces and Limited Scope Representation

A final trend involves the rise of “DIY divorces” and limited scope representation. Some couples, particularly those with simpler financial situations and no children, are opting for do-it-yourself divorces to cut costs. Limited scope representation allows couples to handle certain aspects of their divorce independently, with an attorney’s guidance only for specific parts of the process.

This trend reflects the growing demand for affordable, flexible legal solutions. However, DIY divorces come with risks, and mistakes in documentation or filing can lead to future complications. If you’re considering limited scope representation, the Law Office of Joanne E. Kleiner can provide the legal advice you need to protect your interests, while keeping costs manageable.

What These Trends Mean for Couples Considering Divorce

The evolving landscape of divorce offers more choices than ever before. Whether it’s the option of joint custody, the flexibility of virtual mediation, or the support of collaborative divorce, couples today can approach divorce with greater control and less conflict. At the Law Office of Joanne E. Kleiner, we stay current with these trends to provide our clients with modern, effective solutions tailored to their needs.

If you’re considering divorce or need guidance on child custody, asset division, or mediation, our team is here to support you. With over 35 years of experience in family law, we bring a results-oriented, compassionate approach to every case. Schedule a confidential consultation by calling us at 215-886-1266 or contact us online to learn how we can help.

Final Thoughts

As divorce trends continue to evolve, understanding the options available to you is essential. From the rise of virtual mediation to the growth in joint custody arrangements, today’s divorce landscape is more flexible and supportive than ever. By staying informed, you can make decisions that protect your interests and create a stable foundation for the future. Let the Law Office of Joanne E. Kleiner guide you through this journey with expertise, dedication, and a commitment to achieving the best outcome for your family.

Jun 09, 2024

Relieving Your Kids of the Burden of Divorce

Protecting Your Children From the Challenges of Divorce

With divorce rates fairly high, many children will be affected by the end of their parents’ marriage. The effects of divorce on children can last into adulthood. However, parents can help protect their children from them.

Challenges Faced by Children During Divorce

When parents divorce, children encounter several challenges that can affect their development as they grow. The challenges might be due to the relationship between the parents, the children’s ages, their living situation or even the divorce process itself. Some of the challenges faced by children during and after divorce include:

  • Having to emotionally adapt to the changes in their lives
  • Having to get used to new routines and rules when living in two different homes
  • Struggling to maintain a strong relationship with both parents
  • Feeling lost and like they belong nowhere
  • Feeling abandoned by one or both parents
  • Dealing with miscommunication and conflict between their parents

Protection Begins With the Divorce Process

Children should not have to bear the burden of divorce. Protecting children from the challenges of divorce can begin during the divorce process itself. Parents can speak to their divorce lawyers about options that minimize conflict and can put less stress on all involved. Some of these options include collaborative divorce, mediation and arbitration. These alternative conflict resolution methods can lead to a faster, less costly divorce that also helps parents show their children their commitment to the family and to resolving issues amicably.

Creating a Successful Parenting Plan

Another way parents can protect their children is to create a detailed parenting plan that addresses as many issues and scenarios as possible to avoid conflict during the parenting journey. Your divorce lawyer might help guide you as you design your plan. While this plan should be considered a living document that could change as the family needs evolve, some of the things that should always be addressed include:

  • Parenting time
  • Summer, vacation and special dates and holidays
  • Educational, extracurricular activities, hobbies and interests
  • Traveling
  • Relationships with extended family members
  • Communication methods between the parents and between each parent and the children
  • Last-minute or emergency changes to schedule
  • Expenses

Considering the Parenting Time Schedule

The parenting schedule should be thoughtfully considered as it can also impact how divorce affects the children. Children’s needs are quite different as they grow older, so this will also change over time. Younger children need more consistent interaction with both parents, so alternating daily or every couple of days might be best for infants and toddlers. Older children might be more comfortable with longer stretches with each parent, such as a 2-2-5 schedule, with perhaps a visit with the other parent during the longer stretch. Teenagers, whose bond might be stronger and who often have busy schedules, can benefit from alternating weeks with midweek dinners. No matter what schedule is chosen, frequent communication between the children and each parent will be needed to continue showing the children support and love.

Consider the Logistics and How These Affect Children

The location of the children’s homes and the environment in each home can also affect children. If the parents live too far away from each other, the time spent just traveling from one home to the other can affect the activities the children are involved in and even their relationships with their peers. Additionally, if the environments in the homes are very different, with one having order, comfort and peace and the other one being disorganized and chaotic, the children can feel confused and frustrated as they change homes. Co-parents might consider living within relatively close distances and having some continuity between one home and the other, such as in rules and routines.

When your children are your first concern during the divorce process and beyond, finding a lawyer who understands your needs is important. The Law Office of Joanne Kleiner can provide you with the guidance and support you need during this time. Call us at 215-886-1266 to schedule a consultation at our Jenkintown offices.

Jun 05

Negotiating Custody and Parenting

The Benefits of Positive Negotiations in Your Child Custody Case

Negotiating child custody can sometimes become contentious, even if both Pennsylvania parents want what is best for their child. However, a drawn-out, tension-filled fight is not usually in the best interest of the child. Going into child custody negotiations with a positive attitude and a desire to reach a fair agreement can set the tone for the co-parenting relationship and is full of benefits for the whole family.

Preparing for Positive Negotiations

Before the negotiations begin, tempers might be running high. You might even think that having the assistance of a divorce lawyer might mean that that is what you are preparing for. However, it is best to not approach this as a fight between the parents because this will become an obstacle to reaching the ideal custody agreement and parenting plan. Remember that a negotiation is a time for both parties to present their views and then to go back and forth as they reach an agreement where they each feel satisfied with what they are getting in return for what they have given up. Some of the ways you can prepare to have a positive discussion include:

  • Identifying your priorities
  • Having clear reasons for them
  • Being willing to be open-minded to the requests made by your child’s other parent
  • Listing the things you want your children to be able to keep to maintain stability and support

Positive Negotiations Should Focus on the Best Interests of the Child

This might sound like an easy thing to do, but when passions are running high, this might be forgotten. However, your child custody negotiations must remain focused on the best interest of the child so that all the decisions you make during the process are about creating the best environment for your child to grow up in. There are several things you can do to keep your discussions positive and focused on your child’s best interests. These include:

  • Discussing each parent’s priorities to see where they align and where they differ
  • Maintaining respectful, honest, and open communication
  • Committing to making decisions about the issues related to parenting your child
  • Avoiding discussion of personal issues between the parents that do not relate to the child’s upbringing

Positive Negotiations Allows Room for Creative Solutions

All families are unique. Therefore, each custody agreement and parenting plan must also be unique. Sometimes, this requires creativity, which positive negotiation allows. You can speak with your divorce lawyer about the parenting issues you and the other parent are facing in reaching an agreement to come up with creative solutions for these issues. This might mean working out a nontraditional agreement or even a special support agreement. The goal is to reach a fair arrangement that works for the family and that allows both parents to walk away happy. This will also lead to more commitment by both parties to uphold the agreement they have made.

Positive Negotiations Benefits the Whole Family

Positive negotiation provides long-term benefits for the whole family. This is important because even if you and your estranged spouse have decided to end your romantic relationship, you remain a family and connected due to your children. Some of the benefits of positive negotiations include:

  • Private space to resolve family issues in a way that works for all
  • The possibility of quicker resolutions and possibly lower costs to the divorce
  • An example for the children on how to resolve issues successfully and cooperatively
  • Evidence for the children that both parents remain committed to the family and to raising and supporting them in a loving way
  • Establishment of a positive tone for the co-parenting relationship

The result of your custody negotiation will have an impact on your life. More importantly, the results will have a significant impact on your child’s life. In that situation, you want the support of a divorce lawyer who can guide you through the negotiation process and help you reach an agreement that is ideal for your family. The Law Office of Joanne Kleiner might help you achieve this. Call us today at 215-886-1266 to set up an appointment to visit our Jenkintown offices.

Apr 08

When Your Co-parent is an Alcohol Abuser

Co-parenting With an Alcohol Abuser

Alcohol abuse is a factor that can lead to a Pennsylvania divorce. For former couples who have children and wish to co-parent, alcohol abuse might pose an additional challenge as it can constitute a risk to the children’s safety when a parent is under the influence of alcohol.

How Is Alcohol Abuse by a Parent a Risk to the Children?

Taking care of children is a demanding job. The adult responsible for the children’s well-being should be constantly aware of what the children are doing, what they need and what must be done to keep them healthy and safe. A parent who is responsible for the children but is under the influence of alcohol might not be able to fulfill those responsibilities. Instead, the children’s safety is put at risk. Some of the risks the children might be exposed to include:

  • Lack of adult supervision
  • Exposure to unnecessary and dangerous situations
  • Increased chance of suffering from child abuse or neglect
  • Riding in the car while the parent is driving under the influence of alcohol

How to Deal With Your Concerns

In most cases, it is considered beneficial to the children if both parents are involved in their lives even when those parents are divorced. However, considering the increased risks that can lead to harm for the children when a parent struggles with alcohol abuse, you might be confused about how to address this when you are trying to set up a co-parenting relationship.

It may be a good idea to speak with your divorce lawyer and share all your concerns. You should also keep clear records of any time the other parent was inebriated and where you felt their alcohol abuse could have posed a risk to your children’s safety. This can all be done in preparation for seeking legal channels to keep your children safe, particularly during a separation or divorce where the parents might be potentially sharing custody.

What Is Your Legal Recourse?

While you might want to continue supporting the relationship between your children and their other parent, you will also want to continue keeping them safe. You can work with your divorce lawyer to do this. As part of your custody agreement, you can request monitoring for the co-parent who struggles with alcohol abuse. Ideally, you want your co-parent to admit to the abuse, if they have not done so, and to seek a way to control it. Some of the ways a parent can be monitored for alcohol abuse include:

  • Participating in a 12-step rehabilitation program
  • Working closely with a sponsor who can support them in their journey to sobriety
  • Submitting to random testing completed by a third-party
  • Using Soberlink, a breath test machine that uses facial recognition and can send the results immediately to the other parent or an ankle device that measures the use of alcohol
  • Using an interlock device, which measures the use of alcohol before allowing the person to drive their vehicle, whenever the parent will be driving with the children

Supporting Your Co-parent Through Their Journey to Sobriety

Getting sober can be full of challenges. As a co-parent who wants the best for their children, you might want to support the addicted parent through the journey, encouraging them to take the necessary steps towards sobriety. However, you should also expect that there might be relapses and that those can continue to pose risks to the children. Keeping your divorce lawyer up to date with any developments is important as part of documenting the issues that might make monitoring necessary.

Dealing with a co-parent with alcohol abuse issues can be challenging. Finding a Pennsylvania divorce attorney who can support you and understands that your family is your priority might help you cope with the problems that alcohol abuse creates. Contact us at the Law Office of Joanne Kleiner for a confidential consultation. You can call us at 215-886-1266 to make an appointment to visit our Jenkintown offices.

Aug 09

The Benefits of Parallel Parenting After a Divorce

Reasons to Consider Parallel Parenting After Your Divorce

Although the divorce rate in the United States has been dropping for about 20 years, nearly 39% of first marriages end in a divorce. Many of these marriages include young children, and conflict around parenting and child custody is one of the primary areas of contention discussed with a divorce lawyer. One way that divorcing couples can reduce stress and conflict and minimize time in the courtroom is to create a plan for parallel parenting of their children.

What Is Parallel Parenting?

Parallel parenting is a method of raising children in which the divorced parents minimize interactions with each other. Instead of arguing with each other, they focus their time and energy on their children. This is an effective parenting method when you and your ex-spouse have difficulty being civil with each other.

How Does Parallel Parenting Differ From Co-Parenting?

In a co-parenting situation, parents regularly communicate with each other, present a united front, and have similar rules at each residence. It involves a lot of cooperation and communication. Parallel parenting divides parenting responsibilities and minimizes interactions between the adults. By dividing responsibilities and following the plan, the parents may rarely need to interact with each other.

Who Should Consider Parallel Parenting?

Divorced couples who can’t seem to agree on anything should consider developing a parallel parenting plan with a divorce lawyer. Instead of focusing on problems with each other, this plan focuses on the well-being of the children. Minimizing interaction between the divorced parents also reduces stress and the amount of time that is spent in a courtroom.

How Does Parallel Parenting Benefit Divorcing Parents?

A parallel parenting plan allows both parents to remain active in their children’s lives. It minimizes the stress on each other and disruption for the children. A successful parallel parenting plan demonstrates that parents can focus on what’s best for their children instead of their disagreements, dislike, or distrust for each other. The plan creates guidance for common issues that are likely to breed conflict, such as where children will spend the holidays or which parent will deal with behavioral problems at school. A well-thought parallel parenting plan also makes it easier for divorced parents to move on with their lives after a marriage filled with conflict and arguments.

How Do Children Benefit from Parallel Parenting?

When parents establish a parallel parenting plan, children tend to develop fewer behavioral and emotional problems. They’re more likely to do better in school, develop strong friendships, and have positive relationships with each parent. Parallel parenting also helps children build better self-esteem, and they may be able to avoid feeling as if they were the cause of their parents’ marital problems or the reason for the divorce.

What Should I Include in a Parallel Parenting Plan?

A plan for parallel parenting should include as many specifics as possible. Although you can’t possibly anticipate every event or emergency that could occur with your child or ex-spouse, some elements that you should cover include the start and end of each parent’s visiting time, how and where your child will be exchanged, who is responsible for transporting your child, what happens if one parent misses or cancels their scheduled visit and when each parent has exclusive decision-making power. Some other aspects of parenting to add to your plan include who will take your child to medical and dental appointments, how to handle accidents and injuries, scheduling social, school, and religious activities, and dealing with behavioral issues and daily routines.

If you’re considering a divorce and would like to know more about parallel parenting, you may benefit from speaking with a divorce lawyer. Contact the Law Office of Joanne Kleiner in Jenkintown, Pennsylvania, at (215) 886-1266, or enter your information into our contact form, and an associate will reach out to you to schedule a consultation.