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Child Custody By The Numbers: Stats Every Parent Should Know

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The end of a marriage or relationship is never easy, especially when children are involved. For parents facing a divorce or separation, the process of determining child custody can be one of the most emotionally challenging and legally complicated aspects of the split. Heated debates over living arrangements, parenting time, decision-making authority, and support payments … Continued

Paternity vs APR

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When two people have a child together but later decide to separate, establishing parental responsibilities can become complex. In cases involving uncertainty about the father’s identity, issues around paternity and the allocation of parental responsibilities (APR) often arise. Here’s a guide to understanding how paternity actions and APR cases differ and why each is significant. … Continued

Celebrating Sarah Bella: A Top LLP Volunteer Honoree

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We’re thrilled to share that Modern Family Law’s very own Licensed Legal Paraprofessional, Sarah Bella, was recognized as a Top LLP Volunteer by the Colorado Bar Association at the recent MVL Volunteer Appreciation Event! This award honors her ongoing dedication to volunteer work—first as a paralegal and now as an LLP—demonstrating her unwavering commitment to … Continued

Parental Alienation Laws in Washington: Your Legal Options

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Parental alienation, a term describing efforts by one parent to disrupt a child’s relationship with the other parent, is a complex and emotionally charged issue. In Washington State, where family law prioritizes the best interests of the child, understanding the legal context and consequences of parental alienation can be vital for parents seeking custody or … Continued

Parental Alienation Syndrome: What It Is, Why It Happens, & What To Do

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Parental alienation syndrome (PAS) is a form of child abuse that occurs when a child is manipulated into rejecting one parent and aligning with the other parent against them. It’s a type of conduct that falls under the spectrum of Parental Alienation, which can also be referred to as induced parental alienation or false alignment. … Continued

Key Considerations in Step-Parent Adoption

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Step-parent adoption is the most common form of adoption in the United States, accounting for approximately 50% of all private adoptions. This process allows a step-parent to assume full legal rights and responsibilities for their spouse's child, often cementing a bond already formed within the blended family. While the process can be rewarding to bring … Continued

Healing In The Workplace: Insights From Haeli Harris, LMFT

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Join us as Caroline Germano, Marketing & Communications Manager at Modern Family Law, sits down with Haeli Harris, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Director of Clinical Operations at Nivati, and a skilled yoga instructor, to discuss the intricate relationship between divorce, mental health, and the workplace. This interview explores the common challenges and effective … Continued

Blended Families: Strategies for a Happy, Harmonious Household

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Blended families are becoming increasingly common in the U.S., with approximately 16% of children living in stepfamilies, according to the Pew Research Center. While blending families can provide new opportunities for connection and growth, it also comes with its challenges as members adjust to new roles, relationships, and dynamics. Incorporating expert advice from certified parent … Continued

Expanding Legal Access: Insights On Colorado’s LLP Journey

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The third LinkedIn Live Virtual Panel event hosted by Modern Family Law highlighted the experiences of Colorado’s pioneering Licensed Legal Paraprofessionals (LLPs). Led by Sarah Bella, an LLP at Modern Family Law, the panel featured insights from Melissa Simonton, Janet Price, and Kris Freeman—three of the first LLPs practicing under Colorado’s innovative program. This discussion … Continued

Ghosted: Dealing With A Non-Responsive Ex During Divorce

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Divorce is rarely easy, but navigating it with a non-responsive or “ghosting” ex can make the process especially challenging. Ghosting—where one person suddenly cuts off all communication—can happen in any relationship, but during a divorce, it can add additional emotional and logistical hurdles. This article explores what to do if you’re dealing with an unresponsive … Continued

Haunted By Uncertainty: Why Divorce Can Feel So Scary

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Divorce is one of life's most challenging experiences, filled with a mix of intense emotions. Topping that list for many is fear. While emotions like grief, anger, and relief might surface, professionals in family law often observe that fear overshadows them all. You're not alone in feeling this way, and with the right strategies, you … Continued

Empathy In Action: Diana McCormick’s Sales Strategy At MFL

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In this interview, Diana McCormick, Sales Manager at Modern Family Law, sits down with Marketing & Communications Manager Caroline Germano to discuss her role, approach, and vision for supporting both clients and attorneys. With over two decades of experience, Diana brings a compassionate and client-focused approach to sales, breaking down stigmas and fostering meaningful connections. … Continued

Declarations of Invalidity (Annulments) In Washington

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While divorce is the most common means of ending a marriage, certain situations call for a different approach: a declaration of invalidity, often referred to as an annulment. Unlike a divorce, which dissolves a legally valid marriage, a declaration of invalidity declares that the marriage was never legally binding. This article outlines the process, requirements, … Continued

How Long Can You Be Married And Still Get An Annulment?

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When it comes to ending a marriage, most people think of divorce. However, there is another option for some: annulment. While both annulment and divorce can legally end a marriage, they do so in different ways. An annulment treats the marriage as if it never existed, declaring it legally invalid. But how long can you … Continued

When Is Divorce Mediation Not Recommended?

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Divorce is a complex and emotional journey that many couples face. One of the methods couples can choose to facilitate their divorce process is mediation. Mediation involves a neutral third party who helps the divorcing couple reach agreements on various aspects of their divorce, such as property division, child custody, and alimony. While this process … Continued

Advocating With Compassion: Janet Price’s Journey As An LLP

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In this insightful interview, Janet Price, a Licensed Legal Paraprofessional (LLP) at Modern Family Law, sits down with Marketing & Communications Manager Caroline Germano to discuss her extensive background in family law, her approach to working with clients, and the many ways LLPs are making a difference in the Colorado legal landscape. With nearly two … Continued

LLP Monthly Report – Issue 3

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Introduction to Licensed Legal Paraprofessionals The Colorado Licensed Legal Paraprofessional (LLP) initiative is a pioneering program authorized by the Colorado Supreme Court, creating a new class of legal service provider. Although not attorneys, LLPs are licensed to undertake specific legal tasks, such as preparing documents, collecting information, and offering basic legal guidance. This initiative aims … Continued

Debt, Divorce, and Washington Law: How to Protect Your Finances

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Divorce is a life-altering process that impacts every aspect of a person’s life, including finances. In Washington, the division of debt can be just as critical as the division of assets, leaving individuals with many questions about how to protect their financial future during divorce proceedings. Understanding how Washington courts handle debt division and the … Continued