What is the Importance of a Prenup

By Admin Admin | July 9, 2024
Prenup paper with pen and hearts on paper

Most couples who are soon to be tying the knot have long to-do lists. But most often, mediating a prenup agreement is not on that list. Mediating a premarital agreement is not as fun as cake tasting, but it is just as important for your financial future together. Mediating a prenuptial agreement can be a…

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Starting Over Financially After Divorce

By Admin Admin | June 11, 2024
Man calculating bills

Divorce is one of the most challenging life transitions, especially concerning finances. But it doesn’t have to be a bitter, drawn-out battle as often seen in court-litigated divorces. Collaborative mediation offers a more amicable and constructive way to start your new chapter while creating tailored asset division plans. When dividing assets and debts, a collaborative…

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Tips for Creating a Parenting Plan for Summer

By Admin Admin | May 7, 2024
Woman creating a parenting plan

Coordinating summer activities can be challenging when you share custody of your children with your ex-spouse, especially when there are a lot of events involved. There will always be schedule changes throughout your post-divorce life, but planning ahead can help minimize them. Here are several tips we can share with you to help with your…

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Divorce: Should You Keep the House or Divide All Assets

By Admin Admin | April 9, 2024
Post it notes with asset allocation, cash, real estate, stocks, bonds

When you are experiencing the bumpy journey of divorce, there are a lot of questions and concerns, and more often than not, they are overwhelming. And there’s no right or wrong way to forge a path forward, especially regarding the financial division of assets, including the family home. The key elements in collaborative divorce or…

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Should You Refinance Your Home After Divorce?

By Admin Admin | March 12, 2024
Image of hand drawing house with refinance your home at the top

When discussing the family home while divorcing, it is important to be transparent and open to discussion. One of you may want to stay in your home, while the other wants to sell. Often, couples will bring in a financial neutral professional to help them make an amicable decision on how to move forward with…

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What Do You Tell Your Kids About Your Divorce?

By Admin Admin | February 6, 2024
Mother talking to daughter

When we speak with parents who are divorcing and have children, we often help them draft a conversation to share with their children to meet their needs and age level. Here are some other thoughts to keep in mind: Collaborative divorce mediation encourages parents to work together to decide the best way to share the…

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What is the difference between separation and divorce?

By Admin Admin | January 12, 2024
Wedding rings

There are several ways to proceed once you and your spouse decide to move forward with a marital dissolution. Often we meet with clients to help them understand the difference between legal separation and divorce.  The laws are confusing and overwhelming to many clients, and we are here to help! Here is what we often…

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How is Child Support Calculated?

By Admin Admin | January 9, 2024
Paper with child support payments on it with money

Understanding how child support is calculated can help divorcing couples make informed decisions, fostering a smoother process. In an amicable divorce or mediation, transparency and cooperation are key. This allows couples to address child support with empathy and efficiency and meet unique needs while keeping the child in the forefront. Both parents’ incomes play a…

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Tips for Moving on After Divorce

By Admin Admin | December 13, 2023
Two women talking over coffee.

While divorce may seem like an ending, it can be a gateway to a new beginning. It might be hard for you to know where to start. If you’re looking to move forward after or during your divorce, here are a few steps to rediscover your strength and empowerment: The divorce journey is unique to…

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How Can a Financial Specialist Help in Your Divorce?

By Admin Admin | October 10, 2023
Accountant sitting at desk

Managing your financial situation becomes a central concern when you opt for collaborative divorce or mediation to achieve an amicable marital separation. In this article, we will explore the instrumental role of a neutral financial specialist, in these processes, who will offer insights into various financial aspects crucial for a harmonious divorce. Here are some…

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Financial Steps to Take When You Are Divorcing

By Admin Admin | September 12, 2023
Woman sitting at table managing finances

Divorce can be financially challenging, but you can navigate it smoothly with the right steps, especially through mediation. At Peace Talks, we specialize in helping couples achieve amicable divorces, including handling their finances sensibly. Here’s a guide to financial steps to take when you are divorcing: Achieving an amicable divorce while managing your finances sensibly…

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Dealing with Divorce as a Single Parent

By Admin Admin | August 9, 2023
Mother with son

Divorce isn’t easy, especially when kids are involved. As a collaborative divorce mediator, I understand the challenges you face. Here’s practical advice for dealing with divorce as a single parent while prioritizing your children’s well-being. Prioritize Open Communication Keep communication open with your ex-spouse. Discuss schedules and decisions together, showing unity for your kids. Consistency…

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Coping with Emotional Stress During Divorce

By Admin Admin | July 12, 2023

It’s essential to prioritize self-care and find healthy ways to cope with the stress that comes with divorce. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, here are some practical strategies that can help you navigate the emotional rollercoaster of divorce: Consider opting for a collaborative divorce process or mediation instead of traditional litigation. Collaborative divorce involves mental health…

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How to Survive Financially When Going Through a Gray Divorce?

By Admin Admin | June 7, 2023
Lady calculating on calculator

Navigating a gray divorce comes with unique financial considerations, but careful planning and informed decisions can help secure your financial future. Here are key strategies to survive financially during a gray divorce: Opting for a collaborative divorce process or mediation involves professionals committed to resolving conflicts outside of court. This team, including financial neutrals, mental…

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Should You Use Social Media When Going Through a Divorce?

By Admin Admin | May 10, 2023

As digital devices and social media have become a significant part of life, smartphones and social media platforms are also integral part of our everyday lives. People frequently want to share their experiences – both positive and negative – with friends and family via status updates, tweets, or pictures shared online. When going through a…

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The Importance of Therapy During Divorce

By Admin Admin | April 12, 2023
Couple in divorce therapy

When a marriage breaks down, it can be challenging for couples to understand why and when the communication lines broke down. It’s essential to find a way to reopen those lines of communication to keep the family unit together, even after a divorce has been finalized. One way to do this is through the collaborative…

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Money Mistakes to Avoid When You Divorce

By Admin Admin | March 9, 2023
Woman calculating finances

When couples are divorcing through a litigated court divorce, there is most often chaos and a lot of uncertainty – emotions can run high and hot. But when you and your spouse choose mediation or the collaborative divorce process, you can resolve your differences in a peaceful and amicable environment. With the collaborative divorce process,…

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Takeaways From a Pandemic Divorce

By Admin Admin | February 8, 2023
Face mask with rings laying on it.

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought numerous changes and challenges to our daily lives, and the divorce process is no exception. When you utilize the collaborative divorce model, you have access to a team of professionals, who will work together to resolve your disputes while staying out of court. A court-litigated divorce often pits couples against…

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Creating New Holiday Traditions for Your Family After Divorce

By Admin Admin | December 14, 2022
Baking cookies

Facebook and Instagram would have everyone believing that everyone’s holidays are jolly, bright and perfect! And that can be so very far from the reality of what the holiday season brings, especially for children of divorce and their parents. When our clients decide to use mediation or the collaborative divorce model, they are surrounded by…

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How to Survive the Holiday’s During Divorce

By Admin Admin | November 2, 2022
Woman sitting on couch looking at ipad.

The holidays are a time for family and friends, not for turmoil, but when divorce is part of the equation, it can feel like peace will never be found. Social media has created a vision in our heads of how “the holidays should be” – you know fun-filled, always cheerful and delighting in every encounter…

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Reasons Why Baby Boomers May Choose Collaborative Divorce

By Admin Admin | October 13, 2022
Man and woman sitting across from one another.

Baby Boomers were born between 1946-1964 and after World War II ended. They came after the Silent Generation and before Generation X. The Pew Research Center recorded that couples divorcing over 50 years of age have doubled, and over 65 – the rate has tripled. Studies show that boomers are choosing to dissolve their marriages…

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Protecting Your Child from An Abusive Home

By Admin Admin | October 4, 2022

Child abuse can come in many forms, some of which are unnoticeable at first. For example, a couple going through divorce may be too stressed to notice that they have consistently failed to provide food and proper supervision for their child, which does count as neglect. If tensions are high at home, it can lead to verbal…

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Understanding Spousal Support in California

By Admin Admin | September 14, 2022
Dice stacked on top of one another spelling support.

One of the questions that often arise during the divorce process is how spousal support will be handled and how it will affect the post-divorce financial landscape. When a couple decides to utilize the collaborative divorce process and avoid court litigation, they will have access to a team of experts such as a financial neutral,…

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Why You Shouldn’t Hide Assets In Your Divorce

By Admin Admin | August 10, 2022
Figuring assets

If you are looking to divorce your partner using the collaborative divorce process, it is important not to hide any financial assets and be completely transparent.   Couples agree to disclose all requested information about their finances during the collaborative divorce process. If either client hides assets, the collaborative lawyers must withdraw from the process.…

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Importance of Child Therapy During Divorce

By Admin Admin | July 13, 2022
Little girl sitting talking with therapist.

Children are not always open books; it is quite hard to read their emotions sometimes, and they don’t come with an instruction book. And when your family is in the midst of getting a divorce, children can get even harder to read and understand. Children often do not show their emotional struggles the same way…

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What is marital mediation? Why is it important?

By Admin Admin | June 8, 2022
Couple sitting in front of mediator

Newlyweds often find it hard to think how they will deal with various issues, difficulties, or disagreements during their marriage, especially in the early days of their journey.  But the reality is marriages are not always perfect. It’s more of a rollercoaster ride, especially during the rough patches. To have a successful marriage takes a…

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How to reduce the negative effects of divorce on your children

By Admin Admin | May 11, 2022
Little girl blowing bubbles

The collateral emotional damage that divorce can cause is not just limited to the couple getting the divorce. It also extends to the family’s children, no matter their age. “It will be okay. Children bounce back,” could not be further from the truth. Children who are involved in a divorce where mental health is not…

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Why Is Pre-Marriage Mediation Important?

By Admin Admin | April 13, 2022
Mediation written out with pen laying next to it.

While not on the top of your mind when preparing for a marriage, a pre-marital financial agreement is a task that should be added to the marital to-do list. Many couples struggle with having this uncomfortable conversation. It’s better to cross this road now than later! When you work with a collaborative mediator, this uncomfortable…

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Tips On How To Save for Retirement After Divorce

By Admin Admin | March 17, 2022
Retirement written on a paved road.

When you find yourself on the divorce road, you know in your gut that everything you hold dear will change. You will find yourself with a different financial portfolio, often shared with your ex. Time and again our clients will share their concerns with our financial mediators about how the divorce will impact them financially…

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Financial Impact of Divorce on Women

By Admin Admin | February 9, 2022
Woman figuring out finances.

When you are a woman going through a divorce, you may find that you are financially impacted in ways your male counterpart is not, especially with a court-litigated divorce process. Often, we see that women are more financially impacted than men, and here are a few reasons why: Women are often the lower wage earner…

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How to Keep Conflict Low During a Divorce

By Admin Admin | January 12, 2022
Woman and man standing back to back

While going through a divorce can be one of life’s most stressful events, that stress can be reduced by keeping the conflict low.  The first step in keeping conflict low is practicing self-care during this challenging time. Treating yourself with kindness, compassion, and sensitivity is essential. We want to make decisions for ourselves, and our…

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Will I Lose My House During My Divorce?

By Admin Admin | January 12, 2022
Picture of home.

It’s completely understandable to have a million questions swirling around in your head – divorce can be a lonely and grueling space to live in and sometimes you may feel unsure about everything.  However, when you choose the collaborative law process, there is a team of experts willing to help you and your spouse navigate…

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Things Parents Should Consider When Divorcing

By Admin Admin | September 8, 2021
Little girl holding mom and dads hand walking down the sidewalk.

When you and your spouse decide it is time to start the divorce process, there are many things to think about and add to your to-do list.  And when the marriage involves children, the stress really increases and it can feel very overwhelming. Children can change the entire dynamic for divorcing couples. Instead of focusing…

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Professional Roles in Collaborative Mediation: Lawyers

By Stephanie | September 6, 2021
Lawyer sitting at desk.

You and your spouse have decided to separate, and you are looking for an amicable split.  What is the best approach? Collaborative Divorce is an alternative option to litigation that provides more professional support to each individual during the divorce process.  Each party agrees to stay out of court, and retains their own lawyer, divorce…

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The Stages of Grief During Divorce

By Admin Admin | August 12, 2021
Man sitting and thinking.

When going through a divorce, your emotions can feel like a never-ending grief rollercoaster and the ups and downs of this emotional journey can be hard to understand.  What you may not know is the grieving process during a divorce is like the grief experienced when someone passes away.  Here are the five stages of…

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Tax Filing Status: How will it change with divorce?

By peacetalkadmin | July 1, 2020
Tax Filing Status: How will it change with divorce? - Peace Talks Mediation Services - taxes, tax filing, divorce, collaborative divorce, finances - Photo by Olga DeLawrence on Unsplash

When you and your spouse decide to utilize a collaborative divorce approach, both of you will have access to neutral financial mediators. Financial mediators can help prepare schedules that project cash flows, net worth, and the tax effects of your proposed settlements. They are often asked these 3 tax questions: How should I file my…

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Alimony – How New Tax Rules Can Affect It

By peacetalkadmin | June 6, 2020

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, federal tax filings have been extended until July 15, 2020. Often couples are blindsided by the tax impact of getting a divorce, but when you utilize the collaborative divorce process, you have a team of experts on your divorce team that will help you find your way out of the…

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Creating a Financial Plan for Temporary Finances While Going through the Coronavirus

By peacetalkadmin | May 6, 2020

The novel coronavirus has not only sickened many, but it has also cut off our various income streams, and our financial security is at risk. And if you find yourself in the middle of the divorce process, you may feel like you are drowning in this storm and all hope is lost for financial recovery,…

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Can the Coronavirus Affect Child Custody?

By peacetalkadmin | April 15, 2020

While we battle the COVID-19 virus, even though it seems the world has stopped, there are still many other high stressors at play, such as families who are trying to balance out custody concerns. Many states have a stay-at-home order, and because of safety issues of contracting the virus, parental custody arrangements may need to…

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Helping You Divorce During the Coronavirus

By peacetalkadmin | March 18, 2020

Going through a divorce can be difficult enough, but adding the Coronavirus to the mix can make it more challenging. Peace-Talks Mediation Services is here to help you through this difficult time. We are currently open and providing services in our office. While we are aware of the social distancing currently going on today, we…

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How a Co-Parenting Plan Can Help You

By peacetalkadmin | March 11, 2020

Divorce can be extremely emotionally draining on the spouses, but more often than not, the toll it takes on the children in the family is often overlooked. But did you know your children’s emotional well-being is a key factor when you and your spouse seek a divorce thru the collaborative divorce process? During the collaborative…

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Creating a New You After Divorce

By peacetalkadmin | February 19, 2020

“Out with the old, in with the new” is a famous quote that refers to a person making personal changes in their life. After a divorce, many people struggle to find their “new you”. How does someone go about creating a new you? This is where a magic wand would come in handy, right? First…

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Starting a New Year After Divorce

By peacetalkadmin | December 23, 2019

As 2019 wound down, and your divorce was finalized, you may find yourself asking many questions, some of which may be: How can I make the most of 2020 as a new divorcee? How do I grow my relationship with my children? What is the best way to continue growing my communications with my ex?…

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What to Ask the Mediator

By peacetalkadmin | October 16, 2019

Divorce mediators can make or break a divorce agreement. In order work with an effective divorce facilitator, you and your soon-to-be-ex need to vet them by asking a series of questions to determine if they can help meet both of your needs without going to court and draft a settlement that will be agreeable to…

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Why You Should Hire a Divorce Mediator

By peacetalkadmin | September 11, 2019

Life is full of twist and turns! Often, we don’t know what road we should go down. The “divorce” road is filled with enormous potholes that wreak havoc on custody, property, financial and emotional agreements. It’s hard to know how to avoid these potholes. One of the things that can help keep you on the…

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Tips on How to Tell Your Children You Are Getting a Divorce

By peacetalkadmin | June 19, 2019

One of the hardest moments in a divorce is sharing with your children that you and your spouse will be separating. It’s so hard to know how to start and have such an awkward conversation. Here are some tips we like to share with our clients to help them in having this painful dialogue: Make…

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How Does A Divorce Change Your Finances?

By peacetalkadmin | May 22, 2019
How Does A Divorce Change Your Finances? - Peace Talks Mediation Services - Divorce, Divorce Mediation, Finances - Copyright: dolgachov / 123RF Stock Photo

Are you in the very beginning stages of getting a divorce? Concerned at what your financial landscape will look like once your separation has been finalized? One thing is for sure, many things will change after a divorce, and one of the most significant changes will be your finances. Here are a few financial thoughts…

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Getting A Trust For The Sake of the Kids

By peacetalkadmin | April 10, 2019

If You Have Children, You Should Get a Trust! For most of us, our children are our most precious “possessions”. At Peace Talks Mediation, we feel the exact same way and we make their well being the focus of our divorce mediation. However, while we may believe that we place our children’s interests as our…

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Protect Your Children: Get a Will!

By peacetalkadmin | March 20, 2019

While many of us may believe that estate planning is only for the rich or the elderly, you should know that this process is essential if you have children. At Peace Talks Mediation, not only do we help you with divorce mediation, but we also recommend how you can protect your most precious “possessions” your…

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Tax Breaks for the Divorced Circa 2019

By Stephanie | March 5, 2019

“Lower tax-refunds” has been a subject in the news a lot recently. It is something that that’s a real issue for most people paying taxes. The fact that less tax may have, indeed, been taken out doesn’t soften the blow when that check is disappointing and deflated from previous years. There are strategies available to…

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Parkland Mom’s Valentine

By Stephanie | February 15, 2019

In every family situation as soon as couples walk through the PeaceTalks door they want to know how to protect the children. It’s always about the kids first and last when the word divorce becomes part of the conversation.The threat of becoming estranged fromorlosing a child can start a feeling of panic that has an…

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Divorce Mediation Primer

By Stephanie | January 29, 2019

I came across a nice synopsis of why mediation for your divorce may be the smartest choice. It is safe to say that most couples facing divorce expect the experience to be agonizing as well as exhausting. Ending a marriage, and the ensuing divorce, is one of the most emotional events of a lifetime. Since…

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Creative Co-Parenting

By Stephanie | January 24, 2019

One of the great dynamics that we participate in at our Divorce Mediation sessions at PeaceTalks is the age-old mantra “necessity is the mother of invention.” Once we’re able to establish a common goal for our couples in each of the areas involving conflict it’s amazing how quickly they discover resolutions through cooperation and creativity. By…

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Amazon Fairness and Divorce, Oh My!

By Stephanie | January 21, 2019

For anyone who can’t let go of that “Money=Happiness” thing, just read and be kind of glad that you don’t have so much money that God borrows from you. The divorce fairness issue that Jeff and MacKenzie Bezos don’t have to worry about https://www.cnn.com/2019/01/11/opinions/divorce-unfair-bezos-opinion-cohen/index.html

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Less Painful Divorces

By Stephanie | January 21, 2019

With just less than half of married partners ending in divorce, therapists over time have developed some suggestions for making the process possibly less painful for everyone. You will see from these suggestions why PeaceTalks always makes sure a therapist is available for both parties for every session. You can see a thread with these…

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Divorce Mediation Means Talking

By Stephanie | January 21, 2019

In getting to a mutually agreeable divorce settlement we make progress, literally, by getting couples to communicate with each other. Many couples find it difficult to communicate. Our therapist mediator will provide tools to better communication and can also facilitate a “difficult conversation.”Communication is an interactive process, and text messages can be a great way to stay…

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Amazon Fairness and Divorce, Oh My!

By Stephanie | January 17, 2019

For anyone who can’t let go of that “Money=Happiness” thing, just read and be kind of glad that you don’t have so much money that God borrows from you. The divorce fairness issue that Jeff and MacKenzie Bezos don’t have to worry about https://www.cnn.com/2019/01/11/opinions/divorce-unfair-bezos-opinion-cohen/index.html

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Change In Divorce Mediation for 2019

By Stephanie | January 3, 2019

California Governor Jerry Brown has signed a new law that changes the California Evidence Code that requires attorneys representing clients in mediation to provide disclosures in writing about mediation confidentiality. The attorney must provide the disclosures to clients BEFORE the client agrees to participation in mediation, or AFTER if the client hires the attorney after agreeing…

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Post Divorce Portfolio Balancing Act

By Stephanie | December 31, 2018

All investors review their investments annually, and in light of the market’s recent volatility, it would be wise to review your investments soon as the new tax laws may affect your strategies. “Rebalancing” may be in order if your portfolio’s asset allocation no longer meets your current long-term objectives. As always, you should consult with your…

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Should We Try Mediation?

By Stephanie | December 28, 2018

The following was excerpted from an article in the Boston Herald by Wendy Hickey Should We Try Mediation? The answer is yes for most people. The majority of couples we see at PeaceTalks have enough common goals to negotiate an amicable and equitable settlement agreement.  Since most people will listen to a neutral third-party guide in…

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Take A Cell Holiday

By Stephanie | December 24, 2018

Impossible as it sounds there are people that swear by this strategy, even for short bursts of time, to alleviate the insidious stress of constant interaction and relentless, shifting deadlines. These are two of the main irritants that we see at PeaceTalks that affect our clients. Here are some great thoughts Catherine Price presents and…

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Christmas Magic Before and After Divorce

By Stephanie | December 20, 2018

There are some great points in this article (link below) that are very relevant to both children of the before group as well as those dealing annually with the “split family” holiday conflicts. I hope some of these insights come in handy no matter which side of the timeline you are on and I’m adding a story…

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More Divorce Mediator Tips

By Stephanie | December 18, 2018

Here’s a couple more tips from the article I saw by Oren Kaufmann on the Mediate.com website. Don’t be penny wise and pound-foolish. Imagine the following not so unusual scenario. You have resolved all the tough issues and for some reason these one or two remain “as a matter of principle“. It makes no sense financially…

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Mediator Tips On Divorce Difficulties

By Stephanie | December 13, 2018

There are a lot of commonalities with divorce and lessons from shared experiences can be extremely helpful when going through extremely stressful situations like divorce negotiations. Some great suggestions were offered by a mediation expert named Oran Kaufman in a series of articles for Mediate.com and I wanted to pass along these very cogent, and…

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A Potential Tax Move For 2018 Divorce

By Stephanie | December 10, 2018

As the commercial says “I’m not a tax advisor and I didn’t stay at a Holiday Inn Express last night…” but a piece by Dan Caplinger from The Motley Fool might have a useful idea for your situation. There’s a link at the end to the whole article. Tax strategies is something that PeaceTalks always has…

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Divorce Mediation Misconceptions

By Stephanie | December 8, 2018

I came across an article in Divorce Magazine by Susan E. Guthrie that echoed familiar misconceptions that we come across at PeaceTalks, as do many of our colleagues. Here are a few highlights and I’ve provided a link to the entire article, which makes some excellent points: Almost any divorce case, or really any family law matter,…

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Taking Stock In Your Divorce

By Stephanie | December 7, 2018

In light of the changes in the tax laws and the recent roller coaster volatility in the stock market it might be prudent to talk with your financial advisor about whatever investment assets are attached to your settlement agreement. You can also get feedback and updates related to other nest eggs that are not part…

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Creative Not Clueless Divorce

By Stephanie | November 30, 2018

Besides the slight “Dog Bites Man” slant to another celebrity divorce, with the wife paying alimony, I want to highlight another example of the kind of “creative agreements” that PeaceTalks encourages in our mediation strategies. Alicia Silverstone to Pay Ex Spousal Support by Brian Hood, Page Six As part of the couple’s divorce agreement, the “Clueless”…

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Overstaying In A Bad Marriage

By Stephanie | November 26, 2018

I came across this article and recognized some of the dynamics as themes that we see at PeaceTalks on a regular and all too frequent basis. It sometimes helps if an idea about an important decision process comes from a third party so feel free to share this with anyone. Why You Stayed in That…

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Sowing Holiday Seeds

By Stephanie | November 22, 2018

I hope we all have a happy and safe holiday in the midst of whatever inevitable stress pops up. If you have contact with any young people that are suddenly curious about politics and what some other kids are up to here’s a couple of links to one example. (“Teens In Politics”) It might resonate just…

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Celebrity Divorces and Mediation

By Stephanie | November 20, 2018

I came across an article by Jill Stanley, who covers celebrity legal stories, as to why some celebrities choose mediation for their divorce process. Using some couples from Malibu as a general backdrop she covers a few of these reasons that really can apply to any amicable couple looking to avoid costly litigation. PeaceTalks has handled agreements for celebrities…

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Giving and Saying Thanks

By Stephanie | November 20, 2018

Whether you are in or out of a divorce, the holidays are challenging enough without constant pictures of hellfire and smoky air in your eyes. It can be tough find time in order to target the most effective channel for giving help during a catastrophe and our fires are no exception. I’m passing along some…

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Quotes From Divorce Veterans

By Stephanie | November 14, 2018

There was an article in the Sunday LA Times by Ben Steverman of Bloomberg News with some very clear advice from some divorce professionals that have been doing this for a long time. His article was written before the fires started devastating the lives of thousands of our fellow Californians. PeaceTalks and every other mediation…

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Seeking Relief From Burning Questions

By Stephanie | November 10, 2018

If you have kids that have been affected by the shooting in Thousand Oaks, or the fires that eventually threatened Malibu and you are looking for referrals please call the PeaceTalks office. We have associates and contacts throughout the area and some professionals themselves are going to be hampered by local conditions. Some local therapists…

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What to Ask the Mediator

By Stephanie | November 9, 2018

For people screening referrals they have received to mediation services some questions are best dealt with at the very beginning of the process. Even couples that may have already made a choice often benefit from getting some issues settled before the start of actual preparation and negotiation. Is the first consultation free? PeaceTalks does not…

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Co-Parenting Before and After Divorce

By Stephanie | November 7, 2018

From the time that the emotional separation begins on the path to a divorce there will be transition period while still sharing the house and marking the beginning of the co-parenting puzzle maze. Professionals reiterate that that with the right effort, on both parts, this transition can be smoother and less disruptive to the kids.…

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Divorce Last Minute Loophole

By Stephanie | November 7, 2018

For anyone that is still facing the December 31 deadline for filing here’s some possible relief from some of that anxiety. A lot of people have come to Peace Talks worried, in part, about the alimony change in the new tax laws and what they have to do by December 31 to maximize their benefits going…

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Divorce and IRA’s – Watch Your Assets

By Stephanie | October 25, 2018

Understanding different types of retirement assets, and the costs and taxes associated with each, when liquidated, can help you make informed decisions. Always consult with your financial and tax advisors during the decision making process especially before a liquidation. To help ensure that you reach an agreement that is equitable to both of you, it’s important…

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Money, Debt and Divorce

By Stephanie | October 23, 2018

Dividing Debts in Divorce One of the bad surprises that we see in the divorce process is the amount of money that is owed by both parties as individuals, and as a couple. This can be gnarly and painful and needs professional help to ensure accuracy. A person’s responsibility for any debt the couple has…

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Divorce TV Style

By Stephanie | October 19, 2018

I get a kick out of how many people come to Peace Talks and talk about their divorce concerns and situations referencing plot lines from television shows. Being in Los Angeles that makes sense even though it may have nothing to do with the reality outside the studio walls. The messages we get from television about…

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Divorce Lawyer Secrets

By Stephanie | October 18, 2018

Peace Talks, by definition, gives people the opportunity to talk about everything that is relevant to reaching an amicable agreement. This applies, as well, to all the legal advisors that come to our mediation table. We get to listen to the perspective of the lawyer in many different types of divorce situations representing a wide range of…

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Co-Parenting: Your Own Way Is Best

By Stephanie | October 11, 2018

Fortunately, most of the couples we see at Peace Talks are already focused on the common goal of an amicable agreement, the only choice that is always best for the children. One of the first things we do is help set up a structure for times and places and the necessary exchanges to be performed.…

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Divorce – Ready or Not?

By Stephanie | October 10, 2018

Recently, I’ve been encountering a lot of feedback related to people “rushing” to a divorce, before being informed, as to what needs to be done ahead of time. Here are some of the recurring themes that many therapists and advisors caution about when facing this decision. At Peace Talks we offer discernment counseling to help you…

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Common Questions About Divorce

By Stephanie | October 4, 2018

Here are a few of the questions that come up most often when people are their evaluating their options in relation to the divorce process. If you have some questions about your own situation please contact the office anytime. How can I avoid going to court? If you use a mediation service the court will…

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New Tax Law Prompting Flood of Accelerated Divorces

By Stephanie | September 27, 2018

New tax law prompting flood of accelerated divorces as Dec. 31 deadline looms David Garrick, The San Diego Union-Tribune The term “accelerated divorces” got my attention yesterday when an edited version of this article appeared in the Los Angeles Times. The indications, from 2018 first-half data, are that there may be even more of a…

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Divorce Does Not Equal Failure

By Stephanie | September 26, 2018

Divorce isn’t a failure, therapists say. In fact, it could mean the marriage was a success. The overwhelming feeling of failureis almost impossible to avoid when divorce becomes a reality. We see this even in mediation where both parties are in agreement and it is, of course, worse for those in long litigations. The difficulties…

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Mediation vs. Arbitration

By Stephanie | September 21, 2018

These two terms are being tossed around a lot as people prepare to meet the December 31st deadline for divorce related paperwork and try to avoid going to court. I’ve left a link to an article by Armita Azad from Mediate.com that gives a clear, concise look at the differences between the two from the…

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Stress Rehearsal

By Stephanie | September 17, 2018

Every now and then even a “general” survey can be of use for a “specific” purpose. Dr. Grande highlights four common stress sources, from the Harris Interactive survey, for couples today and two of them are about sex. The other two are about money, (surprise! surprise!), making it and spending it. There is no delineation…

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More Sleep, Less Screen for Kids

By Stephanie | September 13, 2018

I don’t know how to get the kids more sleep but this letter certainly presents a solid case for making it a cooperative priority whenever physically possible. This response to an LA Times editorial about adjusting school start times to favor the biorhythms of students made a strong case but will face enormous resistance from…

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Some Co-Parenting Needs an Assist

By Stephanie | September 6, 2018

One of the most frustrating constants we see in Divorce Mediation is that a surprising percentage of the children involved will have adjustment issues that will need to be addressed by a an outside specialist. It’s a difficult decision point to face as I can bear witness to in my own life. Now matter how…

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Family Disputes: Money Matters

By Stephanie | September 4, 2018

Of all the issues that come up with co-parenting “families of divorce” none are as insidious or downright ugly as “matters of money”. Having attained status as a C.F.P. over the years, I witnessed some of the acrimony the author describes and she is, unfortunately, not exaggerating. The end of the year will often be…

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Notes On Divorce and Tax Changes

By Stephanie | August 30, 2018

This article by Dr. Halem seemed very timely as we hit the Labor Day weekend and all too soon will be staring Halloween and Thanksgiving in the face. I really liked what she said about keeping you informed after your mediation is finished. Here are a few highlights and a link to the entire article…

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Divorced Dads and Poor Health

By Stephanie | August 26, 2018

This recent article from Divorce Magazine caught my attention because it highlights a very real problem that plagues a significant percentage of divorces in general. I have heard some long-time professionals suggest that some of the angst in the White House is related to post-divorce health problems on a multiple scale. One of the primary reasons…

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Divorce and the 2018 Tax Law Change Snapshot

By Stephanie | August 13, 2018

I came across this exchange with Jim Tankersley who covers economic and tax policy for The New York Times and Ailsa Chang from NPR. Jim gives a nice summary of the dynamics involved that are driving financial advisors to get a strategy in place for all their clients that are party to a divorce settlement before…

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Divorce-A Coach Might Help

By Stephanie | July 9, 2018

At Peace Talks we have been doing a lot of “coaching” with the overwhelming process of divorce, from divorcing parents and premaritals as well as legal and psychological practitioners. Here’s a description of “Divorce Coaching” from the American Bar Association: “Divorce coaching is a flexible, goal-oriented process designed to support, motivate, and guide people going…

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Helping with the City Homeless Problem

By Stephanie | June 12, 2018

by Stephanie Maloney Lately the media has been overwhelmed with this problem and the getting rid of the trash that goes along with it. It’s a Herculean task that’s long overdue for overhauling as to the methods used to attack its many different aspects. One issue inexorably linked to the deeper roots of the problem…

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Divorce And Suicide – All Too Related

By Stephanie | June 7, 2018

by Stephanie Maloney Even if you don’t shop for “Designer” fashions there’s a good chance the name “Kate Spade” is one you’ve seen somewhere before her recent suicide. Suicide is still near the top of the list of tough subjects to discuss with the kids. Trying to find the “middle ground” for co-parenting on almost…

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“Free-Range” Parenting

By Stephanie | June 5, 2018

by Stephanie Maloney It seems that childcare and its “do’s and “don’ts” keeps coming up as one of the most emotional issues dividing couples that are co-parenting even with only one child in the mix. I came across an article from the “First 5 California”* website that has some valuable viewpoints about this incredibly difficult…

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Will “Calendar Crush” Push “Hybrid Settlement”?

By Stephanie | June 1, 2018

by Stephanie Maloney If you are getting a divorce before the end of 2018 you should be aware of the 30th of June as the final day to file your paperwork.  If however, you need to finalize or amend your current settlement agreement then early October is when the clerks need your paperwork to review. That’s very important to…

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Tax overhaul may throw a wrench in your Prenup

By Stephanie | May 29, 2018

by Stephanie Maloney An article by Ben Steverman (Bloomberg News) from Sunday’s LA Times dealt with some tax-related issues that are going to affect a lot of divorced couples and their respective families. It’s an extremely informative piece that’s well worth the read. I wanted to highlight a few things he brings up that are…

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