3 Questions To Ask Yourself If Considering Divorce

Divorce is not a decision to be made lightly. Our divorce lawyers at the Lake of the Ozarks can tell you that it can change your life forever. That being said, sometimes divorce is the necessary choice for some married people. If you are considering a divorce, we strongly encourage you to contact an experienced divorce attorney at the Lake of the Ozarks first, before making any irrational decisions. Call Gibbons Law Firm today for your free consultation. We can be reached at (573) 348-2211. In the meantime, keep reading this week's blog for a few questions to ask yourself if you are considering divorce.

3 Questions To Ask Yourself If Considering Divorce

1. Have you tried working your issues out amongst yourselves?
You don't want to go through the painful process that divorce can be and feel like you made the wrong decision. It's wise to pursue every available option to work out your marriage first just so that you are certain when you choose to divorce, that it was the right call for you and your family. You should do what's best for your specific situation but just be prepared and armed with all of the available information.

2. What is your plan post-divorce for your children?
If you are considering divorce you should know now that the court rules in the best interest of the children. Whatever you may be envisioning for your kids, you need to be realistic and communicate with your ex because your plan may not align with what is best for your kids.

3. What are your financial concerns regarding divorce?
There are many different types of marriages, some where both parents and some where one parent works and the other gives up his or her job to stay home to care for your small children. If you give up your job for your kids and then you get divorced, you may be concerned about how you will support yourself and your children. If this sounds like your situation, you should ask your divorce lawyer in Mid-MO about alimony and what your chances are of getting it.

No one ever really plans for their divorce to end in marriage. It's sad that about fifty percent of marriages end in divorce today, but the facts are that they do. If you're afraid your marriage is about to end in a divorce and have a ton of questions about what you should do next, call Gibbons Law Firm today. Your first consultation is free and you will likely feel more prepared if you at least get your many questions answered by someone who can guide you through this. We can be reached at (573) 348-2211. You can also follow us on all of our social media channels listed below to stay up to date on all of our latest announcements.


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Lake Ozark, MO 65049

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Actions You Should Avoid When Getting a Divorce

Going through the divorce process is a time of high emotion. Along with these emotions can come irrational actions. Your character is being scrutinized while going through a divorce so it's important to keep composure of your actions. As a divorce attorney at the Lake of the Ozarks, we've seen a number of cases take a turn due to irrational action of one or both of the spouses. Take a look below for some of the common actions that should be avoided when getting a divorce at the Lake of the Ozarks.

Believing a Battle is the Only Way to Resolve

While most divorces you hear about end up in a large dispute, it does not have to be that way. Matters can often be handled in a civil manner. This can actually help the process go much smoother and quicker. If both parties can decide on how to split property and time with kids (if there are children from the marriage), it does not have to be a drawn-out process.

Pitting Your Children Against the Other Parent

It's important to remember your divorce is between the two adults, not the kids. Try to limit talking about your split in front of the children, if you have any. This could end up driving a wedge between one parent and the kids. Try to stay as involved as possible in your kids' lives, as well. It can be a tough time for children as their parents split apart and they need as much love and support during this time as possible.

Getting Pregnant

If one of the parties becomes pregnant, the divorce proceedings may come to a halt. Whether the father is the spouse or not, it can complicate the divorce process. This will be an emotionally draining time and it's best to avoid adding stresses to the situation.

Increasing the Amount of Debt

Divorce can be an expensive time for the parties involved. You are typically going from two incomes down to supporting yourself (and your family) on your own. Any debt that is accrued while you are still married may be brought into the divorce process. Try to avoid racking up unnecessary debt while you are getting divorced.

Reply on Outside Advice

Every divorce is different. Keep that in mind when taking advice from friends and family who have been through the process. Emotional support and advice are welcome - but keep in mind your divorce may look different than that of your friends. Just because a divorce was ruled a certain way for an acquaintance, the factors in your divorce are likely much different. Don't stress over outside advice too much!

Keep Assets Hidden

Hiding assets is a bad idea. Once the lawyers/court/judge finds out about the asset, it is going to be involved in the division anyway. This can also make you look bad if you try to sneak away with unaccounted for assets. It's best to be upfront and honest during the entire divorce process.

Avoiding the above actions while getting a divorce can help make the entire process easier on everyone involved. If you're thinking about filing for divorce near the Lake of the Ozarks, finding an experienced lawyer is important. Here at Gibbons Law Firm, we have a great deal of experience in family law at the Lake of the Ozarks. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.

Remember, your initial consultation with Gibbons Law Firm is always free.

Your Trusted Legal Resource

Gibbons Law Firm

2820 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B4

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

(573) 348-2211

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5 Actions to AVOID During Divorce

Divorce can be a tough time for everyone involved. It can be easy to let your emotions get the best of you. While most couples do not plan on ending their marriage, around half of all marriages end in divorce. As you navigate this emotional and stressful time, it's important to try to conduct yourself with dignity. As your experienced divorce lawyer at the Lake of the Ozarks, we want to point out a few actions to avoid during the divorce process. Take a look below to learn more!

1) Getting the Kids Overly Involved

It's important to remember your divorce is between the two adults, not the kids. Try to limit talking about your split in front of the children, if you have any. This could end up driving a wedge between one parent and the kids. Try to stay as involved as possible in your kids' lives, as well. It can be a tough time for children as their parents split apart and they need as much love and support during this time as possible.

2) Thinking it Has to be a Fight

While most divorces you hear about end up in a large dispute, it does not have to be that way. Matters can often be handled in a civil manner. This can actually help the process go much smoother and quicker. If both parties can decide on how to split property and time with kids (if there are children from the marriage), it does not have to be a drawn-out process.

3) Racking up Debt

Divorce can be an expensive time for the parties involved. You are typically going from two incomes down to supporting yourself (and your family) on your own. Any debt that is accrued while you are still married may be brought into the divorce process. Try to avoid racking up unnecessary debt while you are getting divorced.

4) Attempting to Hide Away Assets

Hiding assets is a bad idea. Once the lawyers/court/judge finds out about the asset, it is going to be involved in the division anyway. This can also make you look bad if you try to sneak away with unaccounted for assets. It's best to be upfront and honest during the entire divorce process.

5) Listen to Outside Advice Too Often

Every divorce is different. Keep that in mind when taking advice from friends and family who have been through the process. Emotional support and advice is welcome - but keep in mind your divorce may look different than that of your friends. Just because a divorce was ruled a certain way for an acquaintance, the factors in your divorce are likely much different. Don't stress over outside advice too much!

Now that you know all about the list of things to avoid during your divorce process, you know how to move forward with your head held high. If you find yourself wanting to end your marriage, it may be time to file for divorce. Give Gibbons Law Firm a call if you feel yourself nearing a divorce. We can help walk you through the entire process to end your marriage. Your first consultation with our Lake of the Ozarks law firm is free!

Remember, your initial consultation with Gibbons Law Firm is always free.

Your Trusted Legal Resource

Gibbons Law Firm

2820 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B4

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

(573) 348-2211

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Factors that Impact Child's Custody Resolution

A custody dispute is often a difficult time for everyone involved. Typically, both parents want to have some sort of custody of the child. It can turn ugly pretty quickly. It's best to keep your top priority in mind when going through a divorce that involves children - the happiness of your child. As your experienced divorce lawyer at the Lake of the Ozarks, we know this is a very trying time. Knowing the factors that can impact the resolution of your custody dispute can help you through the process. Take a look below and learn about the various situations that can impact custody resolution when filing for divorce.

Child's Relationship with Parent

An important factor in a child custody dispute is the child's relationship with each parent. If one parent has been more involved with a child in a divorce, that parent may more easily gain custody. It's important to be involved in your child's life, especially through a difficult time - like the divorce of his or her parents. Even if it may be awkward for the parents, try to stay as involved as possible with your child during this process. Being there for your child is really what is important!

Child's Preference

If your child is of a certain age, their preference may be a factor in the judge's decision for custody resolution. Your child may be more comfortable living with one parent over the other and this is an important factor. It's vital to your custody resolution that your child has a say if they are old enough to make such a decision.

Mental and Physical Health of Parent

Each parent may be evaluated for mental and physical health. This may help show which parent can provide a healthy environment for the child. If one parent has a drug history or alcohol addiction, they may not be the best fit for the child's care. Your number one goal during a custody dispute should be to provide a positive environment for your child, should they come to live with you.

Employment Obligations of Parent

If one parent is out of town for business frequently, this may not be the best fit for the child involved. It's important for the parent who receives custody to be able to provide a stable home environment which involved being present for your kid.

Living Accommodations for Child

Each parent's home may be evaluated for living condition. It's important to have a safe place for your child to live. Try to find a home that is clean and provides a positive space in which your child can thrive. This can greatly improve your chances of receiving custody of your child during the divorce process.

Parent's Wishes

The wishes of the parents may be taken into consideration during the process. If an agreement of joint custody can be resolved, the courts typically want both parents to be involved in the child's life. As long as both parents can provide a positive and safe environment for their child, a joint custody resolution is usually the right fit.

Types of Custody Resolutions:

Legal Custody - A parent who has legal custody are able to make legal decisions on matters impacting the child.

Physical Custody - The parent who the child physically lives with.

Sole Custody - One parent has both physical and legal custody of the child. The other parent may have visitation rights but does not have any custodial rights.

Joint Custody - Both parents share physical and legal custody, therefore making decisions about the child together.

Now that you've hopefully learned more about the custody resolution options, you are ready to find an experienced attorney at the Lake of the Ozarks. Our law firm in Lake Ozark, MO can help you through the entire divorce process - custody dispute included. If you anticipate going through a divorce in the near future, give Gibbons Law Firm a call. We can help you get started and work on presenting your side for custody resolution. Your first consultation with us is always free!

Remember, your initial consultation with Gibbons Law Firm is always free.

Your Trusted Legal Resource

Gibbons Law Firm

2820 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B4

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

(573) 348-2211

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5 Mistakes To Avoid During a Custody Dispute

Divorce is an emotional and stressful season, especially if you have kids involved. You may be tempted to lash out in frustration, but it's important to stay calm and collected. Our divorce attorney at the Lake of the Ozarks can help you through the entire divorce process. From filing your paperwork to handling a custody dispute, our Lake Ozark law firm is here for all of your divorce needs. Gibbons Law Firm has provided some actions to avoid when going through a custody dispute below - take a look to find out more.

Mistake #1: Little Involvement in Your Child's Life

Especially if your family is going through a divorce, it's important to be there for your kids. No matter what they are involved in, show up and show support for your little one. They are going through this new transition, just like you are, and it's vital to be there for them. Whether it's little league or another school activity, make an effort to be involved in your child's life.

Mistake #2: Negative Comments Toward Your Spouse

During a divorce, you are likely not seeing eye to eye with your spouse. Don't let your children feel the negative effects of this. Keep your comments and feelings about your spouse to yourself or vent with another adult. It's inappropriate to force your feelings on your children - after all the other person you are talking about is their parent too!

Mistake #3: Turning to Drugs or Alcohol

It can be easy to turn to drugs or alcohol in order to cope with the new stress and changes in your life. If you would like your children to live with you, even partial custody, it's important to show that you can provide a stable place for them to live. Alcohol or drugs do not provide stability.

Mistake #4: Lacking Self Control 

Stay in control of your anger or aggression at all times. While the stress builds and the pressure of the looming divorce may be weighing down on you, you have to keep your composure. This can help show that you are a stable figure in your child's life and a good influence on them. Don't let a moment of weakness jeopardize your custody dispute.

Mistake #5: Failing to Provide a Stable Environment

A loving and stable environment can help your children grow and thrive. A divorce can throw a wrench in that, but it's important to work toward providing the best place possible for your children. A child needs consistent love and it's important to show that you are capable of providing that for your kids, especially during a child custody dispute.

Now that you've seen some behaviors to avoid during a custody battle, you're ready to continue on with the divorce process. A loving environment should be offered when referring to your children and it's important to show that you can provide that for your kids. If you find yourself in a custody dispute with your spouse, contact our Lake of the Ozarks divorce attorney today. Your initial consultation with us is always free!

Remember, your initial consultation with Gibbons Law Firm is always free.

Your Trusted Legal Resource

Gibbons Law Firm

2820 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B4

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

(573) 348-2211

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4 Factors that Impact the Cost of Divorce

Did you know financial challenges are one of the most common causes for divorce in the United States? Although divorce does not have to be expensive, there are a number of factors that can drive up the cost of a divorce. Several factors can increase the financial stress for both parties involved in the divorce.

One of the most common questions our family law attorney at the Lake of the Ozarks gets asked is ”how expensive is a divorce.” Unfortunately, there is no set amount for each divorce. Each situation is different, making it impossible to provide a clear price estimate. There are certain factors that can influence how much a divorce will cost. Our Lake of the Ozarks law firm is here to help explain some of the factors that may apply to your divorce and how these factors can impact the overall cost.

Factor #1: Children Involved in the Divorce

When there are children involved in a divorce, the cost of the divorce may rise. It can take more time to determine how to divide custody of your kids. A custody battle is often the most highly contested aspect of the divorce process. Each parent is typically passionate about their kids and are willing to fight for their rights, causing the cost of divorce to rise.

Factor #2: Amount of Cooperation between Spouses

Cooperation with your spouse also has a direct impact on the length of time involved to finalize the divorce. This factor also has a big impact on the money needed to complete the process. If you and your spouse cannot decide how things should be handled and divided, extensive and costly litigation fees may be involved. If the two parties can agree and cooperate, it can greatly impact the bottom line in a positive way.

Factor #3: Marital Assets Involved

If a large amount of assets are involved, the more work needed in dividing them between the two parties. Multiple properties or other assets can complicate the process, and drive the cost up. Other assets that can complicate the process are shared investments and retirement accounts that are listed in both of your names.

Factor #4: The Attorneys You Choose

The attorneys used to represent you in the divorce process will have a significant impact on the overall cost. While the cost is a major factor, it's important to find a divorce attorney at the Lake of the Ozarks that is trustworthy, reliable, and has your best interest in mind throughout the entire process.

If you are interested in filing for divorce, we hope you'll consider Gibbons Law Firm for a trustworthy and affordable attorney. It's important to find the right lawyer to represent your divorce case. Let us help you through the entire divorce process.

Along with divorce, our Lake of the Ozarks divorce attorney has experience with all matters relating to family law. Child custody, spousal maintenance, child support, pre-nuptial and post-nuptial agreements, paternity cases, annulments, and legal separation are all matters we can assist with, as well. For more information about divorce at the Lake of the Ozarks, contact our law firm today. Your first initial consultation is always free with us!


Remember, your initial consultation with Gibbons Law Firm is always free.

Your Trusted Legal Resource

Gibbons Law Firm

2820 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B4

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

(573) 348-2211

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