Kroener Hale Law FirmDivorce, Estate Planning & Criminal Lawyer | Kroener Hale Law firm2024-03-14T18:48:51Zhttps://www.kroenerlaw.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1203099/2019/11/apple-touch-icon-75x75.pngOn Behalf of Kroener Hale Law Firmhttps://www.kroenerlaw.com/?p=509282024-03-14T18:48:51Z2024-03-14T18:48:51ZEmotional distress and psychological harm
Parental alienation can cause children to experience emotional distress and psychological harm. Being in the middle of parental conflict can lead to feelings of confusion, guilt and anxiety. Children may also develop low self-esteem. They may also struggle with trust issues as a result of facing manipulation or coercion by one parent against the other.
Disrupted parent-child relationships
A major consequence of parental alienation is the disruption of parent-child relationships. When one parent undermines the relationship between the child and the other parent, it can strain the bond between the child and the targeted parent. Children may worry about expressing affection or spending time with the targeted parent. This can lead to strained or estranged relationships that can have lasting effects into adulthood.
Negative impacts on child development
Parental alienation can impede children's healthy development and social adjustment. Experiencing ongoing conflict between parents can interfere with children's ability to form attachments. It can also hinder the ability to develop healthy coping mechanisms. Children may also struggle in school or with peers as they grapple with the emotional toll of parental alienation. This can affect their well-being and success in various areas of life.
By promoting healthy co-parenting practices and prioritizing the child's best interests, people can create supportive environments where children thrive despite the challenges of divorce or separation.]]>On Behalf of Kroener Hale Law Firmhttps://www.kroenerlaw.com/?p=509272024-03-14T18:45:27Z2024-03-14T18:45:27ZUnderstand your financial situation
If you received one of the 989,518 divorces in 2022 or the hundreds of thousands in 2023, the first step in recovering financially after a divorce is to fully understand your financial situation. Calculate your income, expenses, assets and debts. Create a budget to track your spending and identify areas where you can make cuts or adjustments.
Update your financial accounts
Update your financial accounts and their beneficiaries to reflect your new status. This includes bank accounts, investment accounts, retirement accounts and insurance policies.
Consider your housing options
Housing is often one of the most significant expenses for individuals after a divorce. Consider your housing options and find a living situation that is affordable and meets your needs. This may involve downsizing, renting instead of owning or exploring alternative housing arrangements.
Focus on building your credit
Divorce can have an impact on your credit score, especially if you shared accounts with your ex-spouse. Build or rebuild your credit by paying bills on time, keeping credit balances low and monitoring your credit report.
Set financial goals
Setting financial goals can help you stay focused and motivated as you work towards recovery. Whether you need to build an emergency fund, pay off debt or save for a major purchase, clear goals can guide your financial decisions and keep you on track.
Navigating the financial aftermath of a divorce is not something you have to do alone. Surround yourself with people who can offer encouragement and help you stay accountable to your financial goals.]]>On Behalf of Kroener Hale Law Firmhttps://www.kroenerlaw.com/?p=509192024-02-28T15:21:19Z2024-02-29T16:02:42ZBarriers to employment
Felony offenders face many barriers when seeking employment. They may face restrictions on occupational licenses and limited access to certain professions. They may also encounter employer discrimination based on criminal history. Many employers conduct background checks as part of the hiring process. A felony conviction can lead to automatic disqualification or bias against the applicant. Those with criminal records may also struggle to find stable employment due to lack of experience or education. This can exacerbate financial instability.
Impact on economic stability
The employment-related collateral consequences of a felony conviction have far-reaching implications for economic stability. Limited job opportunities and lower earning potential can perpetuate cycles of poverty. They can also hinder efforts to rebuild one's life after incarceration. The inability to secure gainful employment may also increase the likelihood of recidivism. People struggling to meet their basic needs may resort to illegal means of survival.
Per the Council of State Governments Justice Center, Ohio laws had about 1,250 provisions about collateral consequences affecting the state's felony offenders in 2020. The majority of those provisions involve barriers to employment. Addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort to dismantle systemic barriers and promote fair hiring practices.]]>On Behalf of Kroener Hale Law Firmhttps://www.kroenerlaw.com/?p=509132024-02-13T04:02:04Z2024-02-16T04:00:42Z1. Maintain detailed records of investments
Keep thorough and accurate records of your investments when facing divorce. Documenting the purchase dates, values and ownership details provides transparency during asset division. Maintaining separate records of investments acquired before marriage or through inheritance is also worthwhile. Doing so helps establish their separate property status. By maintaining detailed investment records, you can advocate for your financial interests and protect your assets during divorce negotiations.
2. Consider pre- and postnuptial agreements
Pre- and postnuptial agreements outline the division of assets in the event of divorce. Discussing these agreements may seem uncomfortable. However, they can offer valuable protection for your investments. A well-crafted prenuptial agreement established before marriage can define each spouse's property rights and financial obligations. A postnuptial agreement negotiated after marriage provides an opportunity to address changes in financial circumstances and protect investments acquired during the marriage.
3. Seek financial advice
Navigating the complexities of investment protection often requires knowledgeable financial guidance. A financial advisor can provide invaluable insights and strategies tailored to your situation. This individual can assess your investment portfolio and identify potential risks. Your advisor can also help develop a plan to safeguard your assets. He or she can also offer guidance on tax implications, retirement planning and long-term financial goals. This knowledge can help you make informed decisions that protect your financial interests. By seeking financial advice, you can make smarter investment choices and secure your financial future amid divorce.
Protecting your investments during divorce requires careful planning. Prioritizing investment protection helps you navigate your divorce with confidence. It also helps you emerge financially resilient on the other side.]]>On Behalf of Kroener Hale Law Firmhttps://www.kroenerlaw.com/?p=509122024-01-29T19:46:28Z2024-02-01T19:46:02ZEnhanced penalties for repeat offenders
Previous OVI convictions can lead to enhanced penalties for future offenses. These penalties might include steeper fines and longer license suspensions. Mandatory participation in alcohol treatment programs may also follow. Repeat offenders may also face harsher sentencing. Longer jail terms and increased community service requirements are both possible. These escalating penalties seek to promote safer roads for all motorists and pedestrians.
Administrative license suspension
In addition to criminal penalties, drivers with more than one OVI may face administrative license suspensions. These can range from several months to several years, depending on the number of prior offenses and the circumstances of the case. Administrative license suspensions are separate from any court-ordered suspensions resulting from criminal convictions. They can also have significant consequences for one’s ability to drive legally.
Ignition interlock devices
For drivers with multiple OVI convictions, the installation of ignition interlock devices may be necessary. These devices require drivers to pass a breath test before starting the car. The use of IIDs aims to promote accountability among repeat offenders and reduce the likelihood of future offenses.
Forbes reports that about 30% of people arrested for drunk driving in Ohio have previous convictions for OVI. By understanding the potential repercussions of repeat convictions, drivers can take proactive steps to avoid engaging in dangerous behavior on the road.]]>On Behalf of Kroener Hale Law Firmhttps://www.kroenerlaw.com/?p=508892024-01-25T18:48:13Z2024-01-18T19:04:16ZCommunication
Effective coparenting begins with open and clear communication. Parents should establish a reliable method of communication that allows them to discuss important matters regarding their children's upbringing. This may include regular check-ins, emails or even a shared parenting app.
When discussing co-parenting matters, they need to maintain a positive and solution-oriented approach. Avoiding blame and accusations creates an environment where parents can work together to find resolutions and model healthy behavior for their children.
Consistency
Children thrive on routine and predictability, especially after a life-changing event. Traveling between different homes may also make them feel as if they do not belong at either one. Coparents need to establish consistent schedules and rules in both households. This provides stability for the children and minimizes confusion.
Flexibility
While consistency is crucial, it's equally important to be flexible and balance the two. Life is unpredictable, and unforeseen circumstances may arise. Coparents need to be willing to adjust schedules or make compromises when necessary.
Prioritization
The primary goal of co-parenting is to ensure the well-being of the children. Both parents should prioritize their offspring's emotional, physical and educational needs over their own ego and wants. By focusing on that shared goal, of keeping their children safe and happy, parents can find mutually agreeable solutions to many problems.
According to Gitnux, around half of all American children will see a parent divorce. Even though the end of a marriage is not as uncommon as in the past, it can still thoroughly disrupt children's lives and equilibrium. Good co-parenting can help offset the effects of the divorce on them.]]>On Behalf of Kroener Hale Law Firmhttps://www.kroenerlaw.com/?p=508762024-01-10T20:46:13Z2024-01-11T20:45:17ZLong-term financial entanglements
People married for many decades usually develop extensive financial entanglements. This is unlike divorces involving younger couples, where assets and debts may accumulate over a shorter period.
There are a lot of gray divorces, too. Adults 65 and older are divorcing at about three times the rate they did before 1990.
In Ohio, dividing assets can become particularly complex. This is the case when couples have jointly owned properties, retirement accounts and investments. Equitable distribution can ensure fair outcomes for both parties. However, the process can be more intricate next to divorces involving younger couples with fewer years of financial ties.
Impact on retirement plans
Another noteworthy aspect is the significant impact gray divorce can have on retirement plans. The equitable distribution of pension plans, 401(k)s and other retirement funds requires careful consideration to maintain financial stability for both spouses in their post-divorce lives.
Social Security benefits add another layer of complexity. Understanding the rules surrounding spousal benefits and the potential impact on individual benefits is necessary for divorcing couples in Ohio. It can significantly influence their financial well-being during retirement.
Navigating these complexities requires a thorough understanding of Ohio's legal landscape. It also requires a strategic approach to ensure a fair and equitable resolution for both parties.]]>On Behalf of Kroener Hale Law Firmhttps://www.kroenerlaw.com/?p=508752024-01-03T23:56:04Z2024-01-04T23:55:57Z1. Consistent routines
In Ohio, about 21.8% of the population is younger than 18 years. Many of these children have parents who do not live together. These parents can work toward creating consistent routines for their children, regardless of the household they are in. Shared routines help cultivate stability and provide a sense of security, mitigating the potential impact of parental disagreements.
2. Common ground
Conflict is inevitable in any co-parenting relationship, but the key lies in how parents address and resolve disputes. In Ohio, co-parents can benefit from a flexible problem-solving approach. This involves actively seeking common ground, focusing on solutions rather than dwelling on disagreements. By prioritizing the child's needs, parents can collaboratively navigate challenges.
3. Neutral mediation
When conflicts escalate and communication breaks down, neutral mediators can be a valuable resource. Impartial mediators help facilitate discussions, promoting understanding and compromise for the benefit of the child.
4. Respectful boundaries
Respectful boundaries can foster a healthy co-parenting relationship. Parents should respect each other's parenting styles and decisions, avoiding unnecessary interference. By acknowledging each other's role in the child's life and maintaining a sense of respect, co-parents can create a more harmonious environment.
5. Child-centric decision-making
Child-centric decision-making involves considering the children's best interests when making important choices related to their well-being. By prioritizing the child's needs over personal differences, parents can create a united front, ensuring a stable and nurturing environment for their child.
By adhering to these principles, co-parents can create a supportive and nurturing environment for their children, even in the face of conflicts and disagreements.]]>On Behalf of Kroener Hale Law Firmhttps://www.kroenerlaw.com/?p=508712023-12-21T19:18:43Z2023-12-21T19:18:43Z1. Clear instructions in a will
The cornerstone of any effective estate plan is a meticulously drafted will. This document outlines how you want to distribute your assets after your passing. Ensure that your will clearly specifies your wishes, from the division of property to the guardianship of minor children.
2. Power of attorney for finances
Designating a trusted individual to manage your financial affairs in case you become incapacitated is important. A Power of Attorney for finances grants someone the authority to make decisions on your behalf. The person you appoint pays your bills and handles your financial matters.
3. Healthcare directives
In the event of a medical crisis, healthcare directives become important. A living will outlines your preferences for medical treatments, and a healthcare proxy designates someone to make medical decisions on your behalf. These documents provide clarity and alleviate the burden on your family during challenging times.
4. Beneficiary designations
Review and update beneficiary designations on your life insurance policies, retirement accounts and other assets. Keeping these designations current ensures that your assets go to the intended beneficiaries without unnecessary complications.
5. Trusts for asset management
Consider creating trusts to manage and distribute assets efficiently. Trusts can help minimize estate taxes, avoid probate and provide for the ongoing financial well-being of your beneficiaries.
6. Regular reviews and updates
Life is dynamic, and so should be your estate plan. Regularly review and update your plan to reflect changes in your family structure, financial situation or laws. This proactive approach ensures that your estate plan remains effective and relevant over time.
A comprehensive estate plan involves a combination of clear instructions, designated decision-makers and strategic asset management. By addressing these key elements, you can create a robust plan that safeguards your legacy and provides peace of mind for your loved ones.]]>On Behalf of Kroener Hale Law Firmhttps://www.kroenerlaw.com/?p=508682023-12-13T01:35:19Z2023-12-13T01:35:19ZChanges to your will
If you have decided to make changes to your will, the process is straightforward. You have two primary options: creating a new will or adding a codicil.
Creating a new will involves starting fresh and outlining your revised wishes and arrangements. This option is suitable when you want to make substantial changes.
Adding a codicil, on the other hand, is a good option if your changes are minor. This a legal document that amends specific provisions of your existing will without rewriting the entire document. It is a cost-effective option for minor changes. The executor must execute the codicil with the same formalities as your original will.
Considerations before making changes
Before making changes to your will, it is important to consider several factors. First, ensure that your updated will complies with the legal requirements of your jurisdiction to be valid. Be specific when outlining your wishes in the new will or codicil to avoid ambiguity and potential disputes among beneficiaries. Additionally, when making changes, involve witnesses who are not beneficiaries to enhance the legal validity of your updated will.
Changing your will is not only possible but also a necessary step to adapt to life's twists and turns. Whether creating a new will or adding a codicil, ensuring your wishes are current and clearly stated is a key aspect of responsible estate planning.]]>