Montgomery County Divorce Law Blog

Perhaps the most damaging allegation that a person going through a divorce can make about their spouse is that they have abused their children. Unfortunately, false allegations of abuse occur in some contentious divorces and child custody battles.

In some cases, a parent truly believes that their co-parent has been abusive -- perhaps because of something a child has said or may be based on the suspicions of a relative or friend. In other cases, however, people will knowingly level a false accusation at their spouse to gain greater custody rights or simply to punish them. Meanwhile, the children caught in the middle may be the ones who suffer the most.

If you're divorcing your spouse after many years together, you may feel like you're not just losing a partner but your entire social circle and support system.

Friends may disappear. When couples divorce, their friends (particularly other couples) often feel like they have to choose sides and continue socializing with one or the other spouse. They may avoid both of them.

Divorce is a legal process, but it's also likely going to be one of the most emotional experiences you'll ever go through. That's why it's essential to choose your divorce attorney carefully. You want someone with experience, of course, and who knows the local court system. However, you also want someone whom you can be honest with and who will work to do what's best for you and, if you're a parent, for your children.

Take the time to talk to a few attorneys. The money you spend to do this will make it worth your while when you find one who's on the same page regarding what you want from the divorce and with whom you're compatible.

If you have a child with a military service member or veteran, it's important to know that there are federal laws regarding their obligation to pay child support that has been ordered by a court or which they've agreed to pay in a signed legal agreement with their co-parent. These regulations aren't meant to conflict with or override state child support statutes but to help ensure that these parents abide by any support agreements.

If no court order or legal agreement is yet in place, the military provides guidelines to determine the appropriate amount of child support in the interim. The amount determined under the military guidelines is often lower than if the relevant state guidelines were used. State guidelines give no special consideration to service members and vets. They're primarily based on a parent's income.