May Flowers, May Showers… and May Family Law Considerations
Ah, May! The month of blooming flowers, warmer weather, and the anticipation of summer. But for many families, May can also bring its own unique set of legal considerations. As a family law attorney, I often see an uptick in certain types of cases this time of year. Here's a look at some common family law issues that may arise in May, and what you should know:
1. Summer Custody Schedules:
With school winding down, many parents are focused on summer custody arrangements. May is a crucial time to finalize these schedules to ensure a smooth transition for children. This may involve:
Negotiating summer visitation: Determining how holidays, vacations, and extended periods of time will be divided between parents.
Addressing travel plans: Establishing clear guidelines for out-of-state or international travel with children.
Modifying existing orders: If your current custody order doesn't adequately address summer needs, you may need to seek a modification.
2. End-of-School-Year Issues:
The end of the school year can bring about disputes related to:
Extracurricular activities: Who is responsible for transportation and payment for summer camps, sports, or other activities?
Graduation ceremonies: Ensuring both parents can participate in important milestones.
School records: Access to report cards and other school-related information.
3. Financial Matters:
May can also be a time when financial issues come to the forefront, particularly in divorce or separation cases:
Tax implications: Discussing how tax deductions and credits will be divided.
Summer expenses: Determining how summer childcare, activities, and other expenses will be shared.
Child support modifications: If a parent's income has changed, May may be a good time to review child support obligations.
4. Domestic Violence Awareness Month:
May is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. It's a time to remember that family law cases can often involve issues of abuse and safety. If you are experiencing domestic violence, it's crucial to seek help and legal protection.
5. Preparing for the Future:
May can be a good time to review your overall family law situation and ensure your legal documents are up-to-date. This may include:
Updating your will or trust: Making sure your estate plan reflects your current wishes.
Reviewing your custody order: Ensuring it still meets the needs of your children.
Addressing any outstanding legal issues: Taking care of any unresolved family law matters before the summer months.
If you have any family law concerns this May, please don't hesitate to reach out for a consultation. I can help you navigate these issues and find the best path forward for you and your family.
(Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with a qualified attorney 1 for advice tailored to your specific situation.)
