The Center For Family Law Newsroom

Honoring a Leader Who Lifts Others Up: Courtney Green Receives Women's Justice Mentor Award

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 19:18:52 GMT

The Center for Family Law celebrates Courtney Green's recognition at the 2026 Missouri Lawyers Media Women’s Justice Awards in the Mentor category, recognizing her outstanding contributions to the legal profession and her commitment to the development of attorneys starting their careers.

The 28th annual Women’s Justice Awards on April 16, 2026 celebrated women across Missouri who exemplify leadership, integrity, service, and excellence in advancing the quality of justice. Honorees are selected from diverse sectors of the legal community, including private practice, the judiciary, public service, academia, and nonprofit leadership.

The Mentor Award is presented to experienced legal professionals who have played a meaningful role in shaping the careers of emerging attorneys. Throughout Courtney's career, which she has spent with The Center for Family Law, she has demonstrated a deep dedication to mentorship, offering guidance, encouragement, and opportunities to those entering the profession, both in and out of the firm. Courtney has been devoted to fostering professional growth and helping cultivate the confidence and skills of future leaders in the law.

Please join us in congratulating Courtney on this well-deserved recognition. We are honored to have her as part of our firm and grateful for the example she sets within our profession and community.

Second Saturday Workshop - 2026 Dates

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 20:29:59 GMT

The Center for Family Law is excited to kick off its fifth year of hosting the Second Saturday Divorce Workshops and to share the 2026 workshop dates.

Below are the upcoming workshops scheduled for 2026. Workshops are held on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., with doors opening at 8:30 a.m.

Saturday, January 24, 2026
Saturday, February 28, 2026
Saturday, April 11, 2026
Saturday, June 13, 2026
Saturday, September 12, 2026
Saturday, November 14, 2026

Each workshop offers a supportive and informative environment for women seeking to better understand the divorce process. Attendees will learn about the legal, financial, and emotional aspects of divorce, as well as the various ways a divorce can be resolved. Topics include alternatives to litigation such as mediation, collaborative divorce, and other out-of-court options. Presenters include experienced attorneys, financial professionals, and mental health experts.

Second Saturday was founded in 1989 in San Diego by the non-profit Women’s Institute for Financial Education, the nation’s longest-running non-profit dedicated to financial education for women. Today, more than 100 Second Saturday workshops are held nationwide.

To attend, please register here . The workshop fee is $50.00, payable in advance or at the door. If you have any questions, please contact us at secondsaturday@thecenterforfamilylaw.com .

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Honoring Four Attorneys for 2025 Super Lawyers® and Rising Stars

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 23:51:08 GMT

We are thrilled to announce that four of our attorneys have been recognized in the 2025 Super Lawyers® and Rising Stars lists! This distinction honors outstanding legal professionals across the nation who demonstrate excellence in their field, and we are proud to celebrate the exceptional achievements of our team.

Celebrating Our Super Lawyer

Ann Bauer has once again been recognized as a Super Lawyer in Missouri & Kansas, marking her 19th consecutive year on the list. Ann’s dedication, skill, and commitment to her clients have earned her additional prestigious honors:

Top 50: Women Missouri & Kansas Super Lawyers – 11th year
Top 50: St. Louis Super Lawyers – 7th year

Ann’s recognition is a testament to her decades of experience and unwavering commitment to families and individuals navigating complex legal matters.

Rising Stars of 2025

We are also proud to celebrate our three attorneys named Rising Stars this year:

Allison Gerli – 8th year
Kristen Sparks – 7th year
Hallie Van Duren – 5th year

The Rising Stars designation recognizes outstanding attorneys who are making a significant impact in their field earlier in their careers.

What This Recognition Means

The Super Lawyers and Rising Stars lists are highly selective, recognizing only a small percentage of attorneys in each state based on peer nominations, professional achievement, and other rigorous criteria. Being named to these lists reflects the consistent excellence, skill, and dedication our attorneys bring to every case.

We are proud to have a team of legal professionals who combine experience, empathy, and expertise to serve our clients. Congratulations to Ann, Allison, Kristen, and Hallie for this well-deserved recognition!

The Center for Family Law Recognized in 2026 "Best Law Firms" Rankings

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 22:14:13 GMT

We are proud to share that The Center for Family Law has once again been recognized as a Tier 1 law firm in St. Louis in the practice areas of Family Law and Family Law--Mediation.

Firms named to the 2026 “Best Law Firms” list by U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers® are honored for their professional excellence, earning consistently strong ratings from clients and peers. A tiered ranking reflects a unique combination of quality legal practice and breadth of expertise.

The 2026 “Best Law Firms” rankings, released this month, are based on client feedback, peer evaluations from leading attorneys, and additional information submitted by participating law firms as part of a comprehensive review process.

About The Center for Family Law

Since 2013, The Center for Family Law has provided progressive, client-centered family law services with compassion and dedication. Our attorneys are committed to advancing the practice of family law and adapting to its ever-evolving landscape. We partner with each client to address their unique needs and goals, helping families navigate challenging transitions with respect and care.

Four Attorneys at The Center for Family Law Recognized by Best Lawyers® 2026

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 20:13:42 GMT

We are proud to share that our attorneys’ dedication and exceptional work for clients have been recognized by peers. This year, four attorneys from The Center for Family Law are honored in the 2026 editions of The Best Lawyers in America® and Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America .

Ann Bauer - Best Lawyers list for family law, family law mediation, collaborative law--family law. In addition, Ann was named as "Lawyer of the Year" for her work in collaborative law. This is Ann's 12th consecutive year being recognized.
Allison Gerli - Best Lawyers list for family law, family law mediation, collaborative law--family law. This is Allison's third consecutive year being recognized.
Kristen Sparks - Best Lawyers "Ones to Watch" list for family law, family law--arbitration & mediation, and alternative dispute resolution.
Hallie Van Duren - Best Lawyers list for family law, family law mediation, collaborative law--family law. This is Hallie's second year being recognized.

About Best Lawyers
Since 1983, Best Lawyers has been recognized as one of the most respected guides to legal excellence. Attorneys selected for The Best Lawyers in America are nominated and evaluated by their peers based on professional expertise and undergo a rigorous verification process to ensure they are in current practice and in good standing.

About The Center for Family Law
Founded in 2013, The Center for Family Law provides comprehensive representation in all areas of family law, with a culture built on partnership with our clients and other professionals. We believe the role of a lawyer is to partner with clients, help them understand their options, and give them the information and confidence they need to make well-informed decisions. To schedule a consultation, click here .

Ann Bauer named Best Lawyers® 2026 "Lawyer of the Year" in Collaborative Family Law

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 19:39:24 GMT

The Center for Family Law is proud to announce that Ann Bauer has once again been named the “Lawyer of the Year” in Collaborative Family Law in St. Louis by Best Lawyers for 2026. Each year, this designation is awarded to only one attorney in each practice area and region, based on outstanding peer feedback—making it a truly exceptional distinction.

This marks Ann’s third year being recognized as "Lawyer of the Year" for her work in collaborative divorce, and her 12th year being recognized by Best Lawyers. For 2026, she is listed for her work in family law, family law mediation, and collaborative law.

Ann is an active member of the St. Louis Collaborative Family Law Association and is deeply committed to the collaborative divorce process, valuing the positive and lasting impact it has on her clients and their families.

About the Collaborative Divorce Process

Collaborative divorce is a respectful legal process that enables couples to resolve all aspects of their divorce—such as property division, child custody, child support, and spousal support—without litigation. Using a team-based approach, which includes attorneys for each spouse, a financial neutral, and a mental health professional, couples work together through negotiation and mediation to reach agreements without the stress and conflict of court. Learn more on the St. Louis Collaborative Family Law Association website by clicking here .

Meet Our Newest Family Law Attorney: Robert Boedeker

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 19:46:27 GMT

The Center for Family Law is pleased to announce that Robert Boedeker has joined the firm as of July 2025 as an attorney of counsel.

Robert is a 2011 graduate of St. Louis University School of Law. For the past ten years, he has worked at Legal Services of Eastern Missouri, Inc. in the Lasting Solutions Family Law Program, which he co-managed since 2017.

At The Center for Family Law, Robert will continue to practice law on family matters and order of protection cases in St. Louis County, St. Louis City, St. Charles County and Jefferson County. Additionally, he is a certified family law Guardian ad Litem and Mediator, and is looking to resume those areas of practice.

“Joining The Center for Family Law allows me to dedicate myself again to just representing clients,” said Robert. “At Legal Services, I was dividing my time between clients and my management duties. I am excited to get back to mediating and representing children’s best interests; at Legal Services, often mediation was inappropriate for clients because of the serious domestic violence they were escaping.”

He continued, “I loved my time at Legal Services and the clients and colleagues I worked with. But I am now looking forward to focusing just on the courtroom and mediation work. The attorneys at The Center for Family Law have the same passion for serving clients and a wealth of experience that I am grateful to be able to bring to my cases.”

“Working in family law is meaningful and can be life-changing for our clients,” said Robert, “and I am glad to join a firm with the right balance of prioritizing conflict-resolution and defending their clients’ interests when needed.”

The Center for Family Law welcomes Robert to the team, knowing his experience and personality make him a good fit to continue the firm’s tradition of collaboration and finding solutions for people in need.

Honoring Ann Bauer: 27th Women's Justice Awards Mentor Award Winner

agerli@thecenterforfamilylaw.com (Allison Gerli) — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 16:27:43 GMT

We are proud to share that Ann Bauer will be honored at the 27th Annual Women's Justice Awards on April 10, 2025, as one of this year's recipients in the "Mentor" category. This award celebrates experienced legal professionals who have played an important role in guiding and supporting the next generation of attorneys.

Ann’s journey in family law began with co-founding her first firm in 2009, eventually leading to the establishment of The Center for Family Law in 2013. What began as a small practice has grown into a dynamic firm with a team of attorneys and staff dedicated exclusively to family law. Ann has been the heart of this growth—leading with purpose, mentoring with compassion, and consistently advocating for positive change.

Ann's unwavering commitment to transforming how families navigate legal separation has helped shift the focus from adversarial litigation to a more compassionate approach to resolution, especially within the collaborative divorce process and in mediation. Her philosophy and approach to family law continue to influence and guide a new generation of legal professionals and practitioners she has mentored throughout her career.

Whether she's mentoring within the firm or taking the time to speak with a law student, Ann is always generous with her time, wisdom, and support. She also shares her expertise through active service on numerous committees dedicated to family law and domestic violence.

Please join us in congratulating Ann on this well-deserved honor. We are grateful for her vision and proud to continue building on the foundation she helped establish at The Center for Family Law.

Second Saturday Workshop - 2025 Dates

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 16:35:25 GMT

The Center for Family Law is excited to announce the start of its fourth year hosting the Second Saturday Divorce Workshops, providing valuable support and guidance to individuals navigating the divorce process.

Below are the upcoming workshops scheduled for 2025. Workshops are held on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., with doors opening at 8:30 a.m.

February 8, 2025
March 8, 2025
April 12, 2025
June 14, 2025
September 13, 2025
November 8, 2025

The workshop provides a supportive and understanding environment for women to learn more about the divorce process. You will be educated on the legal, financial, and emotional aspects of divorce. We will also discuss the different ways to get divorced and alternatives to litigation, such as mediation, collaborative divorce, and other ways to resolve your case outside of the courtroom. You will hear from attorneys, financial experts, and mental health professionals.

Second Saturday started in 1989 in San Diego, created by the non-profit Women’s Institute for Financial Education, the nation’s longest-running non-profit devoted to female financial literacy. Today there are over 100 workshops all across the country.

If you are interested in attending, please go to our Eventbrite page to register by clicking here . There is a $50.00 fee, which can be paid in advance or at the door. If you have any questions, please contact secondsaturday@thecenterforfamilylaw.com.

Tips for Co-Parenting During the Holidays

agerli@thecenterforfamilylaw.com (Allison Gerli) — Fri, 20 Dec 2024 20:57:24 GMT

The holiday season can be a balancing act for all parents, but it can be especially challenging for divorced parents who need to coordinate plans with a former spouse and navigate interactions with new partners. While some stress is to be expected, with careful planning, flexibility, and the right mindset, you can make the holidays smoother for everyone. Here are a few tips to help you manage.

Prioritizing the Children. The holidays are a time for children, and their well-being should be the focus of the schedule. Whether it's your first holiday post-divorce or you have had a few years to adjust, there are simple steps you can take to make the season easier for them.

Create a Joint Plan. Collaborate with your ex to ensure the children can spend time with both of you without feeling torn. A clear, shared plan helps avoid confusion and conflict. This might involve splitting the day between both households or longer periods of time with each parent to allow for out-of-town travel to visit relatives. It is important that parents are on the same page on what schedule will be followed and that is communicated to the children as a joint plan.

Balance Traditions with Flexibility. It is natural to want to keep cherished family traditions, but flexibility is key. Discuss with your co-parent which traditions are most important and find a realistic way to divide them. This ensures that the kids do not feel pressured to choose between one tradition or family, allowing them to enjoy special moments with both sides.

Create New Traditions. This is an opportunity to start fresh. Let go of old expectations and focus on what will bring joy to your current family setup. Whether changing when your holiday meal occurs or coming up with new ways to celebrate with those who matter now, these changes can redefine your holiday experience in a way that reflects your family as it is today. Remember, children care more about spending time with you and celebrating together than about the exact day.

[The Right] Communication is Key. Keeping communication focused on the kids can help prevent old conflicts from resurfacing. Keep discussions brief and to the point. Set times to address important matters and confirm plans through a message or email to ensure everyone is aligned and to prevent miscommunication.

Involving New Partners. Whether it is you or your ex with a new partner, you should be mindful of how this change can stir emotions and make the situation feel uncertain.

If planning to include a new partner in holiday activities, having a conversation with your ex beforehand is best. Discuss your plans for the day and make sure your ex is comfortable with the arrangement. If you are nervous about being around your ex’s new partner, remember that you have the right to decide how much or how little to engage with this new person, all while keeping things positive and calm for the children.

Children may also need time to adjust to a new partner, particularly if the relationship is still fresh. Monitor how they are coping and give them space to process these changes. Do not force interactions, and if possible, let the relationship evolve naturally.

Spending Time with Former In-Laws. Another challenge during the holidays for separated parents is dealing with ex-in-laws. Seeing them may feel awkward, but it is often necessary for the children's sake. If spending time with your ex-in-laws feels too emotionally challenging, be honest with yourself and them. It is okay to politely decline an invitation if it being there would cause too much stress.

Regardless of how you feel about your ex-in-laws, remember that ex-in laws are still important figures in your children’s lives, and it is often best for the kids if you maintain a relationship with them. Encourage your children to spend time with their grandparents or other relatives from your ex’s family when possible.

Remember even when feeling frustrated, remind yourself that cooperation between parents benefits the children, making these moments more manageable.

Trivia Night for a Cause: Supporting Children Impacted by the Criminal Justice System

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 16:38:13 GMT

(This article was originally posted in November 2024 by Courtney Green on the website of The Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis and can be found here .)

Every year, a heartwarming and competitive event takes place that not only tests participants’ knowledge but also makes a significant impact in the lives of children affected by the criminal justice system. The annual Motion for Kids Trivia Night hosted by BAMSL’s Young Lawyers Division, has become a beloved tradition, blending fun with philanthropy to raise funds for the Saint Louis Bar Foundation’s Motion for Kids holiday event aimed at providing a magical holiday experience for children in the Metropolitan St. Louis area, most of whom are currently in foster care.

A Night of Fun and Philanthropy

The 2024 trivia night will be held at the Parkway United Church of Christ and draws participants from the St. Louis legal community, along with friends, family, and colleagues to compete in a lively atmosphere filled with friendly competition. The trivia night is made possible by sponsors in the legal community who play a vital role, providing financial backing and in-kind donations that help cover costs and enhance the evening’s festivities. Additionally, gracious volunteers and members of the Young Lawyers’ Division donate their time to help organize the event and ensure its success.

Adding in a twist each year, the trivia night themes have ranged from the 90’s to “The Eras tour”. This years’ theme is a spooky, legal-adjacent: “Whodunnit? Beyond a Reasonable Doubt.” As the trivia rounds unfold, teams will battle it out to compete for bragging rights (and potential prizes). The questions are crafted to be both challenging and entertaining, ensuring that everyone, from trivia novices to seasoned experts, can contribute.

Silent Auction, 50/50 Raffle, & Games Galore

One of the highlights of the evening is the silent auction, featuring an array of enticing items donated by generous St. Louis based businesses, community members, and local firms. Ranging from gift certificates to tickets for local sporting events, attendees can bet big on items, knowing that every item raised will directly benefit the Motion for Kids holiday event. The auction not only raises vital funds but also showcases the community’s creativity and generosity.

Additionally, there are other opportunities to show support for the Motion for Kids event at the trivia night, including a 50/50 raffle, and mini-games in-between rounds, which are sure to stir up excitement. The proceeds raised from these games will also be given directly to Motion for Kids.

Impact on Children’s Lives

The funds raised during trivia night play a crucial role in making the annual holiday party a reality. The Motion for Kids event provides a joyful experience for children who often face significant challenges in their young lives. For many of these children, the holiday party is one of the few occasions where they can experience the warmth of community, receive gifts, and enjoy festive activities in a safe and welcoming environment.

BAMSL volunteers work tirelessly to create a magical atmosphere, complete with decorations, games, and a visit with Santa Claus. The smiles on the children’s faces during the party serve as a reminder of the positive impact the community can make when it comes together for a common cause.

A Community Effort

The Young Lawyers’ Division Trivia Night is more than just a fundraising event; it’s a testament to the power of community. Local firms, businesses, individuals, and organizations come together to ensure that children impacted by the criminal justice system feel loved and supported during the holiday season. The success of this event highlights how collective efforts can bring joy and hope to those who need it most.

It is the Young Lawyers’ Division goal to not only raise money for the Motion for Kids holiday event, but to encourage a sense of accomplishment and commitment from trivia night attendees for the role they have played in the lives of these children. Trivia Night has become a cherished tradition, one that reinforces the message that together, we can create a brighter future for our most vulnerable children.

Four Attorneys Recognized as 2024 Super Lawyers® and Rising Stars

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 18:28:41 GMT

The Center for Family Law is proud to announce that our firm has once again been recognized by Super Lawyers for 2024.

Ann Bauer has been included in the Missouri and Kansas Super Lawyers list for the 18th consecutive year. In addition, she earned the following prestigious honors:
Top 100: Missouri and Kansas Lawyers (3rd year)
Top 50: Women Missouri and Kansas Super Lawyers (10th year)
Top 50: St. Louis Super Lawyers (6th year)
Three of our attorneys have been named to the 2024 Rising Stars list for Missouri and Kansas:
Allison Gerli (7th year)
Kristen Sparks (6th year)
Hallie Van Duren (4th year)

We are immensely proud of the hard work, dedication, and commitment these attorneys have demonstrated to their clients, and we are thrilled to see their efforts recognized by Super Lawyers.

About Super Lawyers

Covering more than 70 practice areas, Super Lawyers is a directory of lawyers who have achieved a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. Only 5% of attorneys are selected to the Super Lawyers list and 2.5% are selected to the Rising Stars list in each state.

The annual selection process includes a statewide survey of lawyers, independent research of candidates and peer reviews by practice area. The Rising Star category is for attorneys who are under 40 years old or who have fewer than ten years of legal experience.

About The Center for Family Law

Since 2013, The Center for Family Law has been providing progressive family law services to clients, with compassion and dedication. The Center for Family Law attorneys strive to lead the way in the practice of family law. As the definition of family law has evolved, so, too, has our practice in our approach to resolving divorce and other family law disputes. We work with clients to form a partnership to address the specific needs of each client and their family.

Welcoming Jill Hetherington: A New Attorney at The Center for Family Law

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 14:14:17 GMT

The Center for Family Law is pleased to announce that Jill Hetherington has joined the team as an attorney. Jill has been with The Center for Family Law as a law clerk since her first year of law school.

She graduated from Saint Louis University School of Law earlier this year, where she developed a strong interest in family law and estate planning. Through various experiential courses, Jill gained valuable insights into the emotional and financial challenges family law clients face.

Jill was born and raised in St. Louis. She was a high school art teacher for three years before starting law school. Outside of the office, Jill enjoys trying new and unique local restaurants, painting, and being an active member of the St. Louis Hills Neighborhood Association.

Jill is excited to continue her legal career with The Center for Family Law. As a newly minted attorney, Jill brings her enthusiasm and fresh perspectives to the firm. She aims to empower clients and build meaningful attorney-client relationships, positively impacting their lives as she navigates the complexities of family law and estate planning with empathy and professionalism.

We are thrilled and grateful to welcome Jill as the newest attorney at The Center for Family Law.

Welcome Kristen Sparks as TCFL Partner

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 20:35:16 GMT

St. Louis, MO – July 2, 2024 – The Center for Family Law is pleased to announce that Attorney Kristen Sparks joined the firm in June 2024 as partner.

Kristen is a 2015 graduate of the Washington University School of Law. She previously served clients at TCFL from 2013 to 2017 as a law clerk and associate.

Kristen currently concentrates her practice in the areas of family law, probate, orders of protection, adoption and estate planning. She regularly serves as a Guardian ad litem in St. Louis County. Additionally, she is a certified family law Mediator, is trained in Collaborative Divorce, and is a former Adjunct Professor at Washington University School of Law.

When asked why she chose the field of family law in particular, Kristen shared, “I’ve always been interested in the law. In high school, my favorite extracurricular was Mock Trial. In college, I went back and forth between pursuing psychology or law and ultimately decided to go into law. I find that family law combines the two interests, as mental health plays a very important role.”

Throughout her career, Kristen has drawn back to invaluable advice and training she received while working with Cynthia Garnholz, who hired Kristen during her first year of law school and guided her for a decade.

Kristen takes seriously the opportunity to compassionately and confidently walk her clients through extremely challenging scenarios. Revealing her heart for her clients, Kristen says, “I like knowing I’ve helped someone through a really tough period in life and helped set them up for as successful a future as possible.”

True to her commitment to helping pave the way for healthier conflict resolution, Kristen has enjoyed her membership in the Collaborative Family Law Association and was elevated to the role of President of CFLA in June 2024. CFLA is a multidisciplinary group of individuals who want to achieve the best possible outcome for the entire family and provide a better alternative to traditional litigation.

Here at The Center for Family Law, we are so grateful for Kristen’s drive to continually learn, collaborate, and find solutions for people in need. We are proud to have her as a partner on our team.

Ann Bauer: A Pillar of Family Law Recognized at the 2024 ICON Awards

pdaniels@thecenterforfamilylaw.com (Phyllis Daniels) — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 20:32:59 GMT

It is with great excitement that we announce attorney Ann Bauer as one of the esteemed recipients of the 2024 ICON Awards, recognizing her as a pillar of family law in the Missouri legal community.

The ICON Awards, hosted by Missouri Lawyers Media each year, recognize and celebrate 25 legal professionals in Missouri who are at least 60 years old and have substantially shaped the practice of law over their exceptional careers. The recipients are chosen based on their leadership and expertise in their respective fields, as well as the pivotal decisions they have made that have influenced the trajectory of their firms or organizations.

The prestigious honorees include individuals from a spectrum of legal disciplines, including, state and federal judges whose judgments have established legal precedent, founding partners whose vision and guidance have guided their firms to new heights, and seasoned practitioners who have navigated the complexities of law with unwavering commitment and expertise. Although their backgrounds vary, encompassing large and small firms, public service, corporate counsel, and members of the bench, their collective impact on the legal community is self-evident. The 2024 ICON Awards ceremony acknowledges each distinguished recipient for their legal excellence and mentorship in the community.

Throughout Ann's career in family law, she has gained success through her profound empathy for her clients and a comprehensive understanding of the legal challenges they encounter. She has consistently navigated the complexities of family law with grace and tenacity, earning her a reputation as a staunch advocate for justice.

Ann specializes in handling complex divorce cases, child custody disputes, and a myriad of other domestic law matters, where she has established herself as a cornerstone of the family law practice in St. Louis, helping families for 30 years as they navigate the tumultuous waters of family law. It is Ann’s commitment to providing compassionate and assured legal guidance that has resulted in favorable resolutions that prioritize the unique needs of each individual involved.

True to her passion as a collaborative lawyer, Ann has become well-known for her effectiveness at mediating conflicts outside of the courtroom. She is especially skilled at finding amicable solutions that prioritize the well-being of children, and the financial future of all involved. Ann’s skill set is invaluable in her practice and for her clients, where the emotional stakes are high and the impact of the resolutions in such matters extend far into the future. The dedication to a proactive approach demonstrated by Ann exemplifies the profound difference that a deeply committed lawyer can make in the lives of those they serve.

Join us in celebrating Ann Bauer and all she has done for her clients and our community!

Navigate Divorce with Confidence in 2024 with Second Saturday

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 21:25:55 GMT

The Center for Family Law will be hosting another year of Second Saturday Divorce Workshops. These workshops feature expert divorce professionals who will share insights into the various facets of the divorce process, including legal, emotional, and financial aspects. Secure your registration for Second Saturday 2024 today!

Below are the upcoming workshops scheduled for 2024. Workshops are held on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., with doors opening at 8:30 a.m. The workshop is held at The Center for Family Law's Clayton office located here .

January 20, 2024
February 24, 2024
April 13, 2024
May 18, 2024
September 14, 2024
October 12, 2024
November 9, 2024

If you are interested in attending, please go to our Eventbrite page by clicking here or email the Firm at secondsaturday@thecenterforfamilylaw.com There is a $45.00 fee. If you have any questions, please contact secondsaturday@thecenterforfamilylaw.com .

The Center for Family Law Ranked as 2024 "Best Law Firms" in St. Louis

Fri, 17 Nov 2023 20:18:01 GMT

We are proud to announce that The Center for Family Law has once again been ranked as a Tier 1 law firm in St. Louis in the areas of Family Law.

Firms included on the "Best Law Firms" list for 2024 by U.S. News & World Report & Best Lawyers® list are recognized for professional excellence with persistently impressive ratings from clients and peers. Achieving a tiered ranking signals a unique combination of quality law practice and breadth of legal expertise.

The 2024 “Best Law Firms” rankings, were released on November 2, 2023, are based on client evaluations, peer reviews from leading attorneys, and review of additional information provided by law firms as part of the formal submission process.

About The Center for Family Law

Navigating Family Law: Insights from the 23rd Annual Family Law Conference

agerli@thecenterforfamilylaw.com (Allison Gerli) — Mon, 21 Aug 2023 13:30:00 GMT

Navigating family law can be a complex and daunting process. That's why the recent Missouri Bar Family Law Conference brought together Missouri attorneys in the field to share insights and best practices. Attorneys at The Center for Family Law were among the presenters and in attendance at the 23rd annual conference held in Branson, Missouri. Their presentations focused on managing client expectations, initial consultation, drafting documents, case management, and grandparent visitation, third-party custody, and guardianships.

Initial Consultation & Managing Client Expectations

To ensure a positive attorney-client relationship, it is crucial to establish clear expectations from the very beginning. This was the focus of Allison Gerli's presentation at the conference. Allison co-presented with Andrea Pate, a family law attorney and partner at The Law Office of the Ozarks.

It is crucial for attorneys to establish a solid foundation of trust and communication with their clients from day one, as this sets the tone for the entire legal process. Allison stressed the significance of active listening and open dialogue during these initial meetings, allowing clients to express their concerns and goals.

Allison's presentation also highlighted the importance of transparency in managing client expectations. Attorneys should provide honest assessments of their clients' cases, outlining both the strengths and potential challenges they may face. By setting realistic expectations from the outset, attorneys can help clients navigate the legal process with confidence and a clear understanding of what lies ahead.

The presentation then shifted to the importance of talking to clients about process options. Often practitioners focus on the substance and overlook the process. Clients have options on how to resolve their disputes and this should be presented and supported by practitioners. The Center for Family Law prides itself on process options and educating clients on their options, whether that by an uncontested "kitchen table" style divorce, collaborative divorce process, mediation, or a semi-litigated case resolved through cooperative attorneys sitting down to work through issues.

Case Management

Case management is critical to providing quality services to family law clients. Ann Bauer's presentation at the conference provided valuable insights and best practices in this area. Ann co-presented with Kristen Siegel, a family law attorney and partner at Siegal & Irwin, LLC based in Lee’s Summit, Missouri. Kristin covered the importance of carefully drafting court pleadings.

In terms of case management, Ann highlighted the importance of document organization, keeping track of deadlines, and timely communication with clients. Attorneys must keep track of deadlines, court appearances, and client meetings to ensure cases progress smoothly. Clear and frequent communication with clients is crucial. Clients want to know what is going on, and not to be left wondering. It is important to provide updates, address concerns, and gather necessary information for the client’s case.

Ann also discussed the significance of effective document management as a part of case management. Maintaining well-organized and easily accessible files can streamline the legal process and ensure important documents and information are readily available. F.amily law cases are often document-heavy. Keeping documents organized in a systematic way can enable the attorney to prepare for settlement and trial

Grandparent Visitation, Third-Party Custody, and Guardianships

Hallie Van Duren delivered a two-part presentation on the complex legal issues surrounding grandparent visitation rights, third-party custody, and guardianships. Hallie co-presented with attorney Kristen Sparks, partner at Garnholz Sparks.

Typically, guardianship cases involve neglect, abuse, or the inability of the biological parents to provide a suitable environment for a child. A guardian who is appointed by the Court steps into the role of a parent in all respects. A third-party custody action can similarly result in a third-party custodian stepping completely into the role of a parent, but, unlike in guardianship cases, third-party custody can in some circumstances result in a shared custody arrangement between biological parents and non-parents. Grandparent visitation involves much more limited court-ordered contact between a grandparent and a child or children while preserving the parental right to custody.

Hallie outlined the legal standards and procedures for a non-parent to seek custody or visitation of a child in each of these types of cases, emphasizing the paramount concern of establishing and preserving the child's best interests. By exploring statutes, caselaw, and examples, Hallie’s presentation analyzed which type of action would be most appropriate in different circumstances.

Over the course of her two-hour presentation, Hallie examined the complex legal balance of preserving relationships between children and grandparents or other third parties while respecting parental rights. Hallie offered practical guidance for Missouri attorneys in advising clients who are either seeking to establish grandparent visitation rights, guardianship, or third-party-custody or defend against such actions.

Ann Bauer recognized as the Best Lawyers® 2024 "Lawyer of the Year" for Collaborative Family Law in St. Louis

Thu, 17 Aug 2023 22:07:03 GMT

The Center for Family Law is proud to share that Ann Bauer has been named the 2024 "Lawyer of the Year" in the area of Collaborative Law--Family Law in St. Louis by Best Lawyers in America. This is Ann's second time receiving this recognition. "Lawyer of the Year" honors are awarded annually to only one lawyer per practice area in each region with extremely high overall feedback from their peers, making it an exceptional distinction.

This is Ann's 10th year being recognized on the Best Lawyers list. For 2024, she was included for her work in family law, family law mediation, and collaborative law.

Ann is a proud member of the St. Louis Collaborative Family Law Association. Ann values her work in collaborative divorce and the positive impact it has on her clients and families.

About Collaborative Divorce Process. Collaborative divorce is a legal divorce process that allows couples to negotiate all the terms of a divorce, without the need for mud-slinging or the stress of court. Couples will use a combination of mediation and negotiation to reach an agreement on the critical terms of divorce, like property and debt division, child custody and child support, and spousal support. You have a professional team there to support you--attorneys for each spouse, financial neutral, and mental health professional. For more information about the collaborative divorce process, click here or read more on St. Louis Collaborative Family Law Association's website at this link .

About Best Lawyers. Since it was first published in 1983, Best Lawyers has become regarded as one of the most respected guides to legal excellence. Lawyers on The Best Lawyers in America list are divided by geographic region and practice areas. They are reviewed by their peers on the basis of professional expertise, and undergo an authentication process to make sure they are in current practice and in good standing.

About The Center for Family Law. Since 2013, The Center for Family Law has offered expertise in all areas of family law and a culture of collaboration with clients and other professionals. The Firm has earned national recognition, earning U.S. News and Best Lawyers highest Tier 1 Best Law Firms" ranking in the area of family law.

A Bittersweet Goodbye: Honoring Penny Robinson and Alan Zvibleman

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 15:54:49 GMT

In 2023, the firm bid farewell to attorneys Penny Robinson and Alan Zvibleman, and we cannot help but feel a mixture of emotions. It is indeed a bittersweet moment for our firm and all those who have worked with these family law champions.

Penny and Alan have been an integral part of our firm, dedicating their time, expertise, and compassion to those in need of their guidance and support. Their commitment to ensuring the best possible outcomes for families facing difficult situations has been unparalleled. Their passion for family law and unwavering dedication to their clients have impacted our firm and the legal community as a whole.

Alan has been practicing law since 1979. He worked at Capes Sokol for 15 years, before joining The Center for Family Law in 2013. Alan is a skilled family law litigator, mediator, and collaborative divorce practitioner. He is an American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML) fellow and served as Missouri AAML chapter president from 2016 to 2018. In 2016, he was selected as “Lawyer of the Year” by Best Lawyers in the area of family law in St. Louis.

Penny has been practicing law since 1991. Penny worked at Zerman Mogerman LLC as a family law attorney for 17 years, before joining The Center for Family Law in 2019. Penny is an excellent family law attorney, mediator, collaborative divorce practitioner, and Guardian ad Litem. Penny was a devoted and active member of the Collaborative Family Law Association of St. Louis.

Their departure marks the end of an era, and we are truly grateful for the legacy they leave behind. The wealth of knowledge and experience they have shared with their colleagues and mentees will continue to shape the future of our firm and the field of family law.

As we say goodbye to Penny and Alan, this year we also welcomed two new legal minds to our team—Lucy Weilbacher, a 2022 SLU Law graduate, and Beth Lewandowski, a seasoned family law attorney with over 20 years of experience. We are excited to see how their unique skills and perspectives will further enhance our ability to serve our clients and advocate for their best interests.

Although it is difficult to bid farewell to Penny and Alan, the next chapter in our firm’s history promises new opportunities and fresh perspectives as we continue our mission to provide exceptional legal representation to families.

Attorney Courtney Green Receives BAMSL Award of Merit at Law Day 2023

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 20:57:04 GMT

Congratulations to Courtney and all of the BAMSL Law Day 2023 Award Recipients.

The Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis (BAMSL) has selected attorney Courtney Green as one of three attorneys to receive the 2022-2023 Young Lawyers Division Award of Merit (YLD). This award is given to YLD members to recognize their service to the organization. Courtney has been a YLD board member since 2020, serving as chairperson of Read Across America and chairperson for Motion for Kids. This is Courtney’s second time receiving the YLD Award of Merit.

The Firm could not be more proud of Courtney’s continued commitment and dedication to serving the bar and STL community.

BAMSL will recognize the winners of the YLD Award of Merit at the Law Day Awards Ceremony on May 1, 2023, at the Missouri Athletic Club. Illinois Attorney General Kwane Raoul is the event’s keynote speaker.

What is Law Day?

Law Day is an annual event taking place across the nation on May 1 to recognize the rule of law.

Established in 1958 by President Eisenhower, Law Day is celebrated by bar groups, courts, schools, and community organizations worldwide. Law Day aims to recognize and educate Americans about how the legal process strives to protect our freedoms and achieve justice for all.

Click this link to learn more about Law Day.

How to Talk to Your Child When a GAL is Appointed

agerli@thecenterforfamilylaw.com (Allison Gerli) — Thu, 30 Mar 2023 16:37:47 GMT

A custody proceeding can be an incredibly stressful and anxiety-provoking time for not only you but also your child. When a Guardian ad Litem or "GAL" is appointed to your case, the GAL will become a new person in your and your child’s lives. Below are some tips & guidelines for interacting with your child as they work with a GAL.

The GAL is the child’s legal representative and, as such, may examine, cross-examine, subpoena witnesses, and offer testimony on behalf of the child at any hearing or trial. However, the primary role of the GAL is to make recommendations as to what he or she believes is in the child’s best interests. The GAL’s recommendation may be contrary to what the child believes is best. The GAL may make recommendations to the court as to what is in the child’s best interests regarding child custody, which may include recommendations about legal custody, physical custody, communication between parents and the child, weekly schedules, vacation time, and holiday time.

After the GAL is appointed, the GAL often meets with the parents or the third parties seeking custody to start. The GAL will then meet with the child directly. The meeting may take place at school, the GAL’s office, the child’s residence, or a public location. It can be discomforting to have a new person enter a child’s life in such a personal way. It is also imperative that the GAL can enter the child’s life in as smooth a process as possible.

To protect the process, you should not share with the child why a GAL has been appointed for them. Blaming or describing the opposing party’s negative behavior as the reason for the GAL’s appointment may influence their statements and impact the purity of the GAL’s meetings. GAL’s want to ensure their communication with the child is unbiased and untampered with so that the GAL can gain the most honest and reasonable assessment of the situation possible. Rather than saying, “a GAL has been appointed because Dad or Mom does X thing,” tell the child that the GAL is a new person to talk with them about this transition with their parents. Assure them that this person is there for them, and they should try to have an open conversation about their feelings and concerns about the situation.

The GAL will introduce themselves to the child in the way they see fit, but you can let the child know ahead of time that they are meeting with the GAL and that this will be a safe space for them. Remind the child that they can and should be honest with the GAL and that the GAL is there to help bring their voice into the process. You can emphasize that they can truthfully answer any question the GAL asks and that it is also okay to ask the GAL any questions of their own. You can also tell the child that they may meet with this person more than once, which is often the case, so if they do not remember everything at the first meeting or do not know the answers to any questions, that is okay. If the child remembers an answer to a question later, you can offer to help them contact the GAL to provide the answer.

GALs often have different policies for communicating with the child while the case is pending and how often they will meet with them. It is best to ask the GAL assigned to your case about their policies in advance.

To respect the privacy of the GAL’s relationship with the child, please refrain from asking them what they discussed in their meeting with the GAL. The child may want to share certain aspects of their conversations with you, but please keep these debriefs as general as possible and do not probe. If the child shares something with you about their conversation with the GAL that you find concerning, please let your attorney know, and they will contact the GAL if necessary.

All of the attorneys at The Center for Family Law are trained as GALs, in addition to representing individuals involved in divorce and child custody matters. Please contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Article written with contribution from law clerk, Adele Rosenthal. Adele is a 2L at Washington University School of Law.

Second Saturday Workshop - 2023 Dates

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 21:46:41 GMT

The Center for Family Law is excited to continue to host and present Second Saturday Divorce Workshops for second year

Below are the upcoming workshops scheduled for 2023. Workshops are held on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., with doors opening at 8:30 a.m.

January 14, 2023
March 11, 2023
June 10, 2023
September 9, 2023
October 14, 2023
November 11, 2023

Seven Attorneys Recognized as Super Lawyers® and Rising Stars

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 16:53:53 GMT

The Center for Family Law is proud to announce that four attorneys have been included on the 2022 Super Lawyers list for Missouri and Kansas: Ann Bauer (16th year), Sophya Raza (1st year), Penny Robinson (12th year), and Alan Zvibleman (17th year).

Ann Bauer was also named on the Top 100: Missouri and Kansas Lawyers (1st year), Top 50: Women Missouri Kansas Super Lawyers (8th year), and Top 50: St. Louis Super Lawyers (4th year).

Three attorneys were named as 2022 Rising Stars for Missouri and Kansas: Allison Gerli (5th year), Trisha McCulloch (3rd year), and Hallie Van Duren (2nd year).

The Firm is proud for the hard work and dedication of our attorneys, and this well deserved recognition by Super Lawyers.

About Super Lawyers

About The Center for Family Law

The Center for Family Law Ranked as 2023 "Best Law Firms"

Fri, 04 Nov 2022 16:28:51 GMT

The Center for Family Law is pleased to announce that it has once again been ranked as a Tier 1 law firm in St. Louis in the areas of Family Law and Family Law Mediation .

Firms included on the "Best Law Firms" list for 2023 by U.S. News & World Report & Best Lawyers® list are recognized for professional excellence with persistently impressive ratings from clients and peers. Achieving a tiered ranking signals a unique combination of quality law practice and breadth of legal expertise.

The 2023 “Best Law Firms” rankings, released on November 3, 2022, are based on client evaluations, peer reviews from leading attorneys, and review of additional information provided by law firms as part of the formal submission process.

About The Center for Family Law

Four Attorneys at The Center for Family Law Recognized in 2023 Best Lawyers® in America

Fri, 19 Aug 2022 16:46:04 GMT

The Center for Family Law is pleased to announce that 4 lawyers have been included in the 2023 edition of The Best Lawyers in America. The lawyers are Ann Bauer (in the areas of Collaborative Law: Family Law, Family Law, and Family Law Mediation), Sophya Raza (in the areas of Collaborative Law: Family Law, Family Law, and Family Law Mediation), Penny Robinson (in the areas of Collaborative Law: Family Law and Family Law), and Alan Zvibleman (in the area of Family Law).

Since it was first published in 1983, Best Lawyers has become universally regarded as the definitive guide to legal excellence. Best Lawyers has published their list for over three decades, earning the respect of the profession, the media, and the public as the most reliable, unbiased source of legal referrals. Its first international list was published in 2006 and since then has grown to provide lists in over 75 countries.

Lawyers on The Best Lawyers in America list are divided by geographic region and practice areas. They are reviewed by their peers on the basis of professional expertise, and undergo an authentication process to make sure they are in current practice and in good standing.

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About The Center for Family Law. Since 2013, The Center for Family Law has offered expertise in all areas of family law and a culture of collaboration with clients and other professionals. The Firm has earned national recognition, earning U.S. News and Best Lawyers highest Tier 1 Best Law Firms" ranking in the area of family law.

To schedule a consultation, please click here .

Understanding the Role of the Guardian ad Litem

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 17:19:53 GMT

What is a GAL?

A Guardian ad Litem (“GAL”) is a lawyer appointed by the court to represent the best interests of a child or children in a pending family court case. The court is required to appoint a GAL in any proceeding in which child abuse or neglect is alleged. Depending on the county, it is fairly typical for judges to also appoint a GAL in cases where custody is disputed, even if abuse and neglect is not specifically alleged. GALs may be involved in all types of cases where custody is at issue, including: divorces, unmarried child custody cases, adoptions, grandparent visitation, third-party custody and visitation, and guardianships.

Ultimately, the GAL’s job is to investigate the circumstances of the child and the child's parents or caregivers, and then make a recommendation to the Judge regarding child custody. The GAL's primary consideration when proposing their recommendations is the best interest of the child, in consideration of the Missouri statutory custody factors. Courts hold GALs in high regard, and when a GAL is involved, judges rely heavily on the input of the GAL.

GAL Fees

When a GAL is initially appointed by the court, one or both parties will typically be required to pay an initial deposit. The total fees for a GAL depend on the work required on the case, and the Judge will order additional GAL fees as the case progresses, depending on the amount of time the GAL spends investigating. The issue of GAL fees will often be addressed at court appearances, with a larger deposit towards GAL fees required if a case is set for trial.

Often GAL fees will be allocated 50% to each party, without regard to “fault” or time spent with the GAL. Other times, the Judge will look at the income percentages of each party and the reasons the fees were incurred and order an unequal division of the fees. It is very important that the GAL be paid as ordered.

If a GAL is assigned in your case and you are not in a position to pay, it is important that you discuss this with your attorney immediately. The judge will require both parties to pay the GAL fees regardless of what transpires throughout the case. At the conclusion of the case, any amounts not covered by ongoing fee deposits will be ordered to be paid by one or both parties.

What to Expect When Working With a GAL

The GAL will meet with both parties and the child, unless the child is very young. Depending on the complexity of the case and GAL’s preference, the GAL may meet with the parties and the child more than once. The GAL usually meets with the child separately from the parents, but every GAL has his or her own approach to interviewing the child and other family members.

Often the GAL will gather information from not only the parents and the child, but also the school, counselors, doctors, extended family, or other significant people in the child’s life. If a GAL is appointed in your case, you should be prepared to comply with a GAL’s request for the child’s medical records, and be prepared for the GAL to ask to speak to relevant people in a child’s life in order to understand the full-picture of the family situation. If there are concerns regarding a parent’s mental or physical health, or drug or alcohol addiction, the GAL may request a parent's medical records or an evaluation of one or both parents. The GAL may also make recommendations regarding communication between the parent's and counseling.

If a GAL is appointed in your case, the GAL is not the attorney for either parent. There is no attorney-client privilege with the GAL, any communication with the GAL can and likely will be shared with the other parent, the attorneys, and the Judge.

While the GAL does play a significant role in the outcome of custody issues, the GAL does not have the authority to make final orders related to the child. The GAL can only investigate and provide a recommendation. While that recommendation has significant weight in Court, the ultimate outcome of custody issues are in the sole discretion of the Judge. Often having a GAL involved in a case will help the parents work through issues that arise while the case is pending and resolve conflicts by having a neutral party involved. By making preliminary recommendations during the case, parents can have a better idea of where their case is headed, which can sometimes help the parties reach a settlement outside of Court.

Every family law case is different and every GAL is different. If a GAL has been appointed to your case, you should consult with your attorney about how best to engage with the GAL and what to expect.

Article written with contribution from the Firm's law clerk, Adele Rosenthal. Adele will be starting her 2L year at Washington University School of Law.

The Center for Family Law's Clayton Office is Moving!

Wed, 15 Dec 2021 18:19:29 GMT

The Center for Family Law is excited to announce that we are moving! Effective Monday, December 20, our Clayton office address will be: 230 S. Bemiston Avenue, Suite 405, St. Louis, Missouri 63105.

The Clayton office will be closed December 16 and 17 for the move. Our server will be down starting December 15 at 5:00 p.m. and should be back online on December 17 in the morning. We appreciate your patience and understanding during this time.

If you are interested in talking to an attorney at the firm during this time, please complete the consultation request form, located here , and someone will get back to you as soon as we are able.

Our phones will be off on December 16. If you are calling on a current case and require immediate attention, please reach out to the attorney on your case at their direct dial, listed on their profile page.

Parking at the new office . There is visitor and client parking in the garage on the street level of the building, directly adjacent to Shaw Park Drive. The visitor parking is also accessible by entering the first garage entrance from the north alley off of Bemiston Avenue, directly behind the restaurant, IL Palato.

There is also metered parking on Bemiston Avenue in front of the building. Meters are paid by downloading the Passport Parking app.

Paying for parking. Cash or by a token. The Firm will cover parking for clients and will provide clients with parking tokens upon arrival or departure. Meters are paid through the Passport Parking app via credit/debit card.

The Center for Family Law Earns 2022 "Best Law Firm" Ranking by U.S. News and Best Lawyers®

Fri, 05 Nov 2021 19:52:28 GMT

The Center for Family Law is pleased to announce that it has been ranked as a Tier 1 law firm in St. Louis in the areas of Family Law and Family Law Mediation .

Firms included on the "Best Law Firms" list for 2022 by U.S. News & World Report & Best Lawyers® list are recognized for professional excellence with persistently impressive ratings from clients and peers. Achieving a tiered ranking signals a unique combination of quality law practice and breadth of legal expertise.

The 2022 “Best Law Firms” rankings, released on November 5, 2022, are based on client evaluations, peer reviews from leading attorneys, and review of additional information provided by law firms as part of the formal submission process.

To be eligible for a national or metropolitan ranking, a law firm practice area must have at least one lawyer in that practice ranked as a “Best Lawyer.” The Center for Family Law is proud to have three attorneys ranked as "Best Lawyers," Ann Bauer, Penny Robinson, and Alan Zvibleman.

Attorney Trisha McCulloch Running for Judge in St. Charles County. Come Celebrate!

Thu, 26 Aug 2021 21:47:17 GMT

The Firm is proud and excited to share that attorney Trisha McCulloch is running for Associate Circuit Judge, Division 6 in St. Charles in the 2022 election. Trisha joined the firm in 2020 after successfully running her own practice in St. Charles since 2015, TEM Law, LLC. Prior to that, she practiced family law in St. Charles at Todt, Ryan, and McCulloch with her father-in-law.

Trisha serves as the Vice President of the St. Charles County Family Resource Center and is a provisional judge for the Cottleville Municipal Court. Trisha has extensive experience in a variety of legal areas including juvenile justice and family law. Since 2014, Trisha has served as a contract guardian ad litem in St. Charles juvenile court.

Trisha was born and raised in Wisconsin. She moved to Missouri in 2009 to attend UMKC School of Law, where she graduated with honors. Trisha and her husband Joe have three children (Jackson, Grayson, and Sadie) who attend school in the Francis Howell School District.

Q&A with Trisha

Why do you want to be a judge?

"I believe I can have a greater impact and make a larger difference in the legal community as a judge. I believe I have the temperament, drive, and compassion needed to provide fair and prompt justice. My aspirations to become a judge started in law school in part due to my passion for legal writing. Since graduating, I have primarily practiced in St. Charles and have established meaningful working relationships with attorneys and have developed respect and admiration for the judges. I cannot think of a better county to become a judge than St. Charles due to the outstanding and supportive legal community. "

How would you describe your judicial philosophy?

"I hope to interpret and apply the law in a fair and impartial manner while remaining respectful and conscientious. I believe that a judge should actively listen to the facts presented and apply the facts to the law. When applying the facts, I believe a judge should be conscientious of the case law established and, if necessary, clearly distinguish the facts presented to the judge if there is any deviation to the current case law.

My judicial philosophy is to efficiently handle cases before me. Sensitive matters should be handled in a timely manner and in accordance with the rules established for such matters. Citizens deserve to know that the laws and rules were created for a purpose and will be followed by the judges. When there is an absence of rules guiding my process, I hope to create rules within my division to provide guidance to effectively manage cases.

I will treat everyone with respect and dignity. Every case before me is important and will be given the time it deserves. Every final judgment requires review of the law and application of the facts to the law."

Briefly describe an issue that you have interest in working toward improving.

"I have devoted my career to improving the lives of children who are involved in the court system. Throughout my role as a contract Guardian ad Litem with juvenile court and on private cases, and my parent-attorney cases, the overarching problem I see is the time it takes for cases to be finalized. This leads to the lives of children being put on hold for months or even years, which ultimately takes a toll on their social, emotional, academic, and mental well-being. I would use my role to work on decreasing the amount of time it takes for a child custody matter to be resolved, work towards finding alternative methods for delinquency cases to be handled, and enforce the appropriate timelines for case goals in abuse and neglect cases.

Along with improving the timeliness of the cases, I would work towards finding programs to assist the children through the court system. Children are often innocent bystanders and the ones most negatively impacted by the system. We do not have enough services to offer to children and families going through the system to effectively have them leave the system unharmed or unaffected by the process. I would strive to order more mediation, co-parenting counseling, and family counseling to help families struggling to function as two separate units and come up with parenting plans that fit each family. In return, I believe this would help minimize the amount of families that return to court on a motion to modify."

Can you explain the election process in St. Charles?

"St. Charles County has partisan elections. Judges are elected by the people, and candidates are listed on the ballot alongside a label designating political party affiliation. The primary election takes place in August with the general election following in November. Associate Circuit Judges are elected to four-year terms and Circuit Judges are elected to six-year terms. If elected, my job will be to remain fair and impartial."

Event with Trisha

The Firm is hosting a Meet and Greet with Trisha on September 29, 2021 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at our Clayton office. Please RSVP to mccullochforjudge@gmail.com by September 24. Masks required for those unvaccinated.

Three Attorneys from The Center for Family Law Recognized by Best Lawyers. Penny Robinson Named "Lawyer of the Year."

Fri, 20 Aug 2021 15:20:23 GMT

The Center for Family Law is pleased to announce that 3 of its lawyers have been included in the 2022 Edition of The Best Lawyers in America.

Ann Bauer in the areas of Family Law, Collaborative Law: Family Law, and Family Law Mediation. Ann has been recognized by Best Lawyers since 2014.
Penny Robinson in the areas of Collaborative Law: Family Law and Family Law. Penny has been recognized by Best Lawyers since 2016.
Alan Zvibleman in the area of Family Law. Alan has been recognized by Best Lawyers since 2012.

In addition, Penny Robinson has been named "Lawyer of the Year" for 2022 in the area of Collaborative Law: Family Law for St. Louis. Each year, one lawyer in each practice area and community is honored with "Lawyer of the Year" award. Congratulations to Penny!

Since it was first published in 1983, Best Lawyers has become universally regarded as the definitive guide to legal excellence. Best Lawyers has published their list for over three decades, earning the respect of the profession, the media, and the public as the most reliable, unbiased source of legal referrals. Its first international list was published in 2006 and since then has grown to provide lists in over 75 countries.

Lawyers on The Best Lawyers in America list are divided by geographic region and practice areas. They are reviewed by their peers on the basis of professional expertise, and undergo an authentication process to make sure they are in current practice and in good standing.

The Center for Family Law to Begin Hosting Second Saturday Divorce Workshop

Mon, 16 Aug 2021 21:02:59 GMT

First Workshop Scheduled for September 11, 2021

We are excited to announce that starting this September, we will be leading the Second Saturday divorce workshop in St. Louis. Below are the upcoming workshops scheduled for 2021 and early 2022.

September 11, 2021
November 13, 2021
January 8, 2022
March 12, 2022
More dates in 2022 will be posted

If you are interested in joining our September workshop, or for more information, please go to https://www.secondsaturdaystl.com/registration/ to register. There is a $45.00 fee. If you have any questions, please contact secondsaturday@thecenterforfamilylaw.com .

Financially Supporting Children After High School

Thu, 01 Apr 2021 22:14:13 GMT

In Missouri under present law, child support continues past high school until the age of 21, as long as the child attends college or a vocational school. In addition, parents can also be obligated to pay college expenses until the age of 21.

Pursuant to Section 452.340.5 of the Missouri Revised Statutes, in order for child support to remain in place and for parents to be responsible for college costs, the following requirements must be met:

Hours Requirement . Child must enroll at minimum 12 credit hours per semester, not including summer. However, if the child is working at least 15 hours per week during the semester then the requirement that the child be enrolled in 12 credit hours is reduced to nine credit hours.
Grades Requirement . Child must successfully complete the required number of credit hours, meaning no failing grades in at least 12 hours per semester.
No Time Off Requirement. Generally, the child must enroll by October 1 following the child’s graduation from high school. This means that if the child takes a semester off before starting college, typically the child support obligation would terminate and could not be reinstated if the child enrolls in college after that point, even if the child is under age 21 when the child enrolls. In addition, the child must be continuously enrolled in school, meaning that child support would terminate and could not be reinstated if the child takes a semester off.
Document Exchange Requirement . The child must provide transcripts or similar official document to both parents at the beginning of each semester, detailing the child’s enrollment in classes and grades.

The law does provide for exceptions to the grades requirement above, which include, but are not limited to, a physical disability or other diagnosed health problems. The court will also consider other circumstances that may justify a delay in starting school by October 1 after graduation or require a child to take a semester off.

If a child fails to meet the requirements above, the parent paying child support will need to file an Affidavit of Termination of Child Support with the court in order to stop an income withholding order/garnishment that may be in place. Without the consent of the other parent, a copy of the Affidavit will need to be served on the other parent and there will a hearing before the court.

If the child is enrolled in an institution and meeting the requirements above, there is another option under the law that some parents may consider—the parent paying child support or the child may petition the court to have child support payments paid directly to the child instead of paying the other parent.

While the court after a trial may only obligate parents to pay support and college expenses until a child reaches age 21, many parents agree as part of their divorce to pay for expenses past age 21 and these agreements are included as part of the divorce judgment.

We have handled a lot of expensive litigation related to college expenses and post high school support. Consultation in advance may save significant fees. In addition, if you want the other parent to have to continue to pay child support, you must be sure to follow the procedure. You do not want to lose both in attorney’s fees and lost support payments. Please contact the firm if you wish to schedule a consultation.

Precautionary Actions to Take When Considering a Divorce

Fri, 05 Feb 2021 20:23:18 GMT

Precautionary Actions to Take When Considering a Divorce

The decision to get a divorce is often an extremely complicated one, combining a great deal of emotional and financial stress. Some people choose to consult with an attorney early in the decision-making process in order to better understand their options and legal rights under the law. Others may talk to friends who have gone through a divorce or do research on their own. There is no singular path to reaching the decision to get divorced. Likewise, there is no singular path to getting divorced when working with the right attorney. No matter which path you choose, it is important to protect yourself while you are making these life-altering decisions.

The list below details precautionary actions that you may want to take when you are considering a divorce:

1. Credit Cards.

Cancel all joint credit cards immediately.
If you do not already have a credit card, consider applying for one now.

2. Bank Accounts.

Contact your financial institution where any joint accounts are held and ask about their procedures to eliminate the possibility of either spouse removing funds without a specific court order while the divorce case is pending.
If you do not already have a bank account in your name only, consider opening one.

3. Loans & Debts. If you have loans in joint names or loans that you have guaranteed, contact your lender about the following:

Assurance that you will be notified of all late payments.
Learn the procedure (if any) for removing yourself from liability. For example, your spouse obtained a new loan written in his or her name alone.
Consider requesting a credit report and be sure to provide a copy to your attorney.

4. Keep a Record. Make notes of conversations with your spouse that may be relevant to the divorce case, specifically everything related to custody. Make a record of the custody arrangement you and your spouse are following, noting when your spouse is contacting and spending time with the children.

5. Get Help.

You may want to talk to your financial planner or tax expert to assist you in making decisions prior to and during your divorce case. If you do not have either, you may wish to find one now or ask your attorney if they have any referrals.
If you are in counseling or psychotherapy for yourself, it is most likely important to continue. If you are not in counseling, you may want to consider it now. Therapists can assist with the emotional roller coaster many people experience in your situation. Regular sessions can ease the stress and may indeed help you limit legal fees incurred during the divorce process.

6. Negotiations with Your Spouse. Please discuss your plan for negotiating with your spouse with your attorney in advance. Always keep in mind the following:

“Settlement” agreements between the two of you are nonbinding—and, therefore, can be an exercise in futility. Additionally, you may accidentally make an agreement before knowing your legal rights.
Settlement in divorce is a “package.” It is better not to agree to one thing out of the context of complete settlement. There are many ways to “divide the pie.”
If possible, reach agreements on the payment of bills and use of credit cards while the case is pending. If you are still residing in the same house, discuss the logistics of continuing to reside together or a plan for one spouse moving.

7. Safety.

Consider establishing a PO box or switching your mailing address to that of a close friend or relative, especially if you are still residing with your spouse.
Find a place to keep documents safe and away from your spouse.
Make sure to change any settings on your phone, computer, tablet, or websites that are programmed to share information with your spouse, such as shared calendars or apps that track and share your location.
Be mindful of any devices that have shared text messaging capabilities. For example, are your text messages simultaneously updated on your iPad or laptop?
Be cautious about the possibility that your spouse may have installed spyware on electronic devices or a GPS tracking device on your vehicle. Even without intentional effort on the part of your spouse, shared cell phone accounts may keep a record of your location that is accessible to your spouse.

8. Social Media.

Be aware of any information that you put on the internet that may be accessible and viewable to others.
Consider taking a hiatus from any form of social media while your case is pending, particularly the sharing of personal information regarding your situation or spouse. Posts on Facebook and Instagram can be used as evidence in your case. Even if you have your profile set to private, mutual friends or relatives that are still in touch with your spouse, may share the information that you post with your spouse.
If you have previously posted on social media and are concerned about the content, you should discuss your concerns and the best course of action on how to handle this situation with your attorney.

All of the attorneys at The Center for Family Law have experience representing individuals going through divorce or a legal separation, and would be happy to sit down with you to discuss your options and legal rights. Please contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Motion for Kids 2020: Celebrating the Holidays during COVID-19

Fri, 18 Dec 2020 18:49:42 GMT

Each year, the Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis (BAMSL) and the Bar Foundation, sponsor Motion for Kids, a massive holiday party attended by thousands of children in the foster care system or affected by the criminal justice system. The children, with their families and caregivers, look forward to attending the party to participate in a variety of games and crafts, visits with Santa, live entertainment, and refreshments. The children leave with a gift specifically selected for them by a sponsor from the St. Louis legal community. Fundraising for and implementing the event requires extensive planning and organization for many months in advance. Many volunteers donate their time in the days leading up to and at the party. This year, as with just about everything else in 2020, the annual Motion for Kids holiday party required significant improvisation and revision. Even though an enormous indoor gathering was not feasible this year, the BAMSL staff and volunteers were determined to put together something special for these children in what has been an especially difficult year.

Attorneys Hallie Van Duren and Courtney Green were both on committee for this year's event. The Motion for Kids committee began making plans for the party early in the fall, hoping that some type of party with safety modifications could still take place. A venue was reserved to hold a drive-through event for the families where we could still provide the children with entertainment, food, craft kits, and of course, gifts. As COVID rates surged and stay-at-home orders took effect, it became clear that even the modified drive-through party was not possible. While the whole party experience seems to be memorable and enjoyable for the children, one part that seems to really bring happiness is receiving their gifts, selected and purchased for them from their wish list. For many of these children, it may be the only gift they receive this holiday season. Although the pandemic has prevented many events throughout this year, the committee was committed to providing gifts to these children despite the roadblocks and barriers presented by COVID-19.

After the decision was made that the drive-through event had to be cancelled, the staff and committee immediately got to work making plans. Each volunteer worked closely with agency partners, who provided information for children recipients in order to facilitate the gift purchasing and distribution. Sponsors in the legal community purchased gifts for the children and/or made financial contributions for the purchase of gifts. The presents were then sorted and organized by volunteers before being transported and distributed to the families. Because of logistical considerations, some children received gift cards to stores of their choosing. Funds for the purchase of gift cards were raised through donations, purchased by BAMSL, and then distributed through the agency partners. In the end, 1,543 children were able to receive gifts to brighten their holiday season. The Center for Family Law adopted over 20 children.

It may have looked quite a bit different, as with most things this past year, but thanks to the dedicated volunteers and staff, in a year of disappointment and spoiled plans, their efforts were successful in bringing some much-needed joy to these deserving children. The Center for Family Law is looking forward being a part of this memorable event next year, and in person!

If you are interested in making a donation to Motion for Kids or participating in next year's event, please contact the firm or BAMSL (www.bamsl.org).

The ABCs of Juvenile Court

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 20:04:28 GMT

Finding your family in juvenile court for an abuse and neglect case can be very scary, stressful, and intimidating. There are many nuisances, acronyms, procedural differences, and important timelines that are thrown at you during a time when your main priority is getting your child back as soon as possible. In order to help you through this difficult process, this article explains the important acronyms and terms that you might hear during a juvenile case.

AC (Alternative Care). Licensed or court-ordered placements outside of the family home.

Adjudication. At this hearing, the parents may either admit that the allegations in the petition are true or deny they are true. If the parents deny they are true, a contested hearing will be scheduled. If the court, after a contested hearing, does not take jurisdiction, then all proceedings are dismissed and no further court involvement will occur.

APPLA (Another Planned Permanent Living Arrangement). A Permanency Goal for a child that is 16 years or older. This option is an appropriate case goal when there is a specific long-term placement for a child and when it has been documented to the court that compelling reasons exist which make other permanency options unacceptable.

ASFA (Adoption and Safe Families Act). Federal law passed by Congress on behalf of children in foster care. This act provides time frames for child welfare agencies and courts to move a child through the foster care system so the child will not be living in foster care indefinitely. ASFA states that a petition for TPR (termination of parental rights) must be filed if a child has been in out-of-home care for 15 of the most recent 22 months, or a child is an abandoned infant. There are exceptions to this timeline that should be noted. A TPR does not need to be filed if the child is in the care of relatives, CD (Children’s Division) has a documented compelling reason why TPR is not in the best interest of the child, or CD has failed to provide reasonable efforts to the family.

CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate). A trained volunteer appointed by the judge who advocates for the child. The CASA will provide a written recommendation to the Judge at each hearing. Not all cases have a CASA assigned. Typically, the FST (Family Support Team) will determine whether a CASA is appropriate and will make a request to the judge for one to be appointed. The CASA is assigned to a case and continues to serve as CASA until the case is finalized.

Case Review. Once the dispositional hearing is held, case review hearings are held periodically until the child is reunited with the parents or jurisdiction is terminated by achieving another case goal (guardianship, adoption, etc.). These hearings can be held every 30, 60, or 90 days depending on the progress made on the court ordered service plans.

CD (Children’s Division). The state agency who takes legal and physical custody of a child when a child enters alternative care. It is possible that a Contracted Agency takes legal and physical custody of a child rather than Children’s Division. A case manager is assigned and is responsible for or overseeing the case involving the child. The case manager ensures the child is in an appropriate placement, as well as helping parents find services to complete their written service plans.

Disposition. If the court does take jurisdiction of the child at the time of adjudication, the court will set a disposition hearing. At this hearing, the Case Manager will recommend a Written Service Plan. All services necessary to achieve reunification of the child will be listed in the service plan. If the FST agrees to the services, the Court will order it be completed. If everyone cannot agree, a contested disposition hearing will be held.

DJO (Deputy Juvenile Officer). The Juvenile Office staff assigned to a case involving a juvenile in the legal custody of CD. This individual represents the Juvenile Office in most court hearings and at FST meetings. The DJO is represented by the juvenile attorney, and at court hearings, both the DJO and the attorney for the Juvenile Office are present.

DMH (Department of Mental Health). A department within the Missouri government which provides mental health services to an individual in need of services.

DSS (Department of Social Services). A department within the Missouri government which oversees multiple agencies responsible for providing other services to its citizens, including CD, DMH and DYS (Division of Youth Services).

ER (Extreme Recruitment). An agency that works with the FST when a TPR has occurred and the child does not have an adoptive placement and all other options have been exhausted to find an adoptive placement for the child. This agency will meet frequently with the FST to update as to their progress in their extensive and tireless search for relatives, kinship options and traditional adoptive resources to ensure the child is able to achieve permanency through adoption.

FCS (Family Centered Services). Services provided by CD to families.

FSD (Family Support Division). A division within DSS responsible for Income Maintenance and family support services.

FST (Family Support Team). This team consists of the parents, parents’ attorneys, the child if over the age of 14, the Case Manager, the foster or relative placement provider, the GAL (Guardian ad Litem), the DJO, the CASA volunteer and any other family members or friends that the parents can rely on to assist and provide support. The FST meets regularly to determine services and treatment needs, to develop a plan for reunification or other permanency options, to determine appropriate placement of the child, to evaluate case progress and make changes as needed to the case plan.

GAL (Guardian ad Litem). The attorney appointed by the court to represent and protect the best interests of a child in the legal custody of Children’s Division. If a CASA is appointed, the GAL and the CASA work closely to ensure they both are kept apprised of the case to help determine the appropriate case goal for the child. The GAL attends court hearings, team meetings, and makes recommendations to the court regarding the best interest of the child.

ICPC (Interstate Compact for Placement of Children). In the event placement with an out-of-state relative or kinship provider is recommended by the FST and appropriate for the child, the provider has to go through the ICPC process to ensure that all of the same requirements are being met in the other state and that the child is still being properly monitored in that state. This process is very lengthy and time consuming. If the ICPC is approved, the child and the placement provider will have a case manager in both states and the case managers will communicate frequently so that the FST in the original state is kept up to date on the child.

ILA (Independent Living Arrangement). A child or young adult (under 21) living on his/her own under supervision. The individual’s custody may or may not be assigned to CD.

ILP (Independent Living Program). Helps a child or young adult (between 15 and 21) who has been in out-of-home placement to become self-sufficient in the community and learn to live independently.

Permanency Hearing. This hearing must be held within 12 months of the child entering foster care. This hearing determines the permanency plan for the child and if CD has made reasonable efforts to finalize the permanency plan. This hearing is held annually.

Permanency Review Hearing. This hearing may be heard as often as necessary after each Permanency Hearing, but must be held at least every six months during the period of time the child remains in care after the initial Permanency Hearing. The purpose of these hearings is to ensure the case goal is the most appropriate option for the child.

PPRT (Permanency Planning Review Team Meeting). The administrative process conducted for the purpose of objectively determining the continued appropriateness of a child’s placement, a child’s progress in care toward the short- and long-range goals, and the need for continued care. The FST is invited to these meetings and a third party reviewer to ensure the meeting is objectively held. The third party is allowed to ask questions during the meeting and offer any insight that might have not been provided by the FST.

TDM (Team Decision Making Meeting). A facilitated meeting to determine if a child needs to move to a new home (or other change in placement) to ensure the safety of the child and/or stability. The meeting includes a diverse group of people who seek to make a recommendation based on information shared during the TDM by all participants. Parents and their attorneys are invited to these meetings and encouraged to attend to give their input on the next placement for the child.

TPR (Termination of Parental Rights). The ending of all legal ties of a parent to his/her child. This is one of the case goals available to the FST once it is believed that the parents are not going to be able to achieve reunification in a timely manner.

WSP (Written Service Plan). A document developed by CD, the parents and the FST that lists goals and tasks to be completed for reunification of the child with the parent(s).

If you are interested in learning more about abuse and neglect juvenile cases, please contact the firm today to schedule a time to talk to one of our experienced attorneys.

Six Attorneys Selected to 2020 Missouri & Kansas Super Lawyers® and Rising Stars List

Mon, 16 Nov 2020 21:32:51 GMT

The Center for Family Law is proud to announce that Cynthia Albin, Ann Bauer, Alan Zvibleman, and Penny Robinson have been listed as 2020 Missouri and Kansas Super Lawyers in the area of Family Law. Super Lawyers has selected Ann 14 times, Alan 15 times, and Penny 10 times. This is Cynthia Albin's first time.

In addition, Allison Gerli has been selected a 2020 Rising Star for the third time and Trisha McCulloch has been selected a 2020 Rising Star for the first year.

Super Lawyers is a rating service and directory run by Thomson Reuters. Each year, Super Lawyers selects a group of exceptional attorneys from over 70 different practice areas who have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. The selection process includes peer nominations, independent research, and peer evaluation within the attorney’s practice area.

The Super Lawyers List recognizes no more than 5% of attorneys in each state and the Rising Star List recognizes no more than 2.5% of attorneys in each state of attorneys who are under age 40 or have been in practice 10 years or less.

Three Lawyers named to 2021 Best Lawyers® List & Ann Bauer Named 2021 Lawyer of the Year

Thu, 12 Nov 2020 18:34:19 GMT

Th e Center for Family Law is pleased to announce that 3 lawyers have been included in the 2021 Edition of The Best Lawyers in America. The lawyers are Ann Bauer (in the areas of Collaborative Law: Family Law, Family Law, and Family Law Mediation), Penny Robinson (in the areas of Collaborative Law: Family Law and Family Law) and Alan Zvibleman (in the area of Family Law).

In addition, Ann Bauer has been named "Lawyer of the Year" for 2021 in the area of Collaborative Law: Family Law for St. Louis.

Since it was first published in 1983, Best Lawyers has become universally regarded as the definitive guide to legal excellence. Best Lawyers has published their list for over three decades, earning the respect of the profession, the media, and the public as the most reliable, unbiased source of legal referrals. Its first international list was published in 2006 and since then has grown to provide lists in over 75 countries.

Lawyers on The Best Lawyers in America list are divided by geographic region and practice areas. They are reviewed by their peers on the basis of professional expertise, and undergo an authentication process to make sure they are in current practice and in good standing.

The Center for Family Law Ranked in 2021 "Best Law Firms"

Thu, 12 Nov 2020 18:23:49 GMT

The Center for Family Law has been named once again to the "Best Law Firms" list for 2021 by U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers®.
The law firm has been named a Tier 1 firm in St. Louis in two practice areas: Family Law and Family Law Mediation .

Firms included in the 2021 "Best Law Firms" list are recognized for professional excellence with persistently impressive ratings from clients and peers. Achieving a tiered ranking signals a unique combination of quality law practice and breadth of legal expertise.

The 2021 Edition of "Best Law Firms" includes rankings in 75 national practice areas and 127 metropolitan - based practice areas. Additionally, one "Law Firm of the Year" was named in each nationally-ranked practice area.

Ranked firms, presented in tiers, are listed on a national and/ or metropolitan scale. Receiving a tier designation reflects the high level of respect a firm has earned among other leading lawyers and clients in the same communities and the same practice areas for their abilities, their professionalism and their integrity.

What Happens When One Parent Doesn't Follow the Parenting Plan?

Tue, 10 Nov 2020 16:39:22 GMT

Unless the other parent takes steps to enforce the parenting plan, nothing happens. But, if the other parent wants to enforce the parenting plan – what options are available?

A parenting plan is entered as part of a judgment and becomes an order of the court. Not following the parenting plan is a violation of a court order. When a parent violates the court order, there are a couple of different options.

The parent seeking compliance with the court order could file a Motion for Contempt asking the court to enforce its order. The noncompliant parent could be subject to sanctions, including attorney’s fees and costs incurred by the parent who was required to file a motion to enforce the order. This option is available for violations of both financial and custody/visitation provisions of the parenting plan. For example, if one parent refuses to pay college costs for an unemancipated minor.

If custody or visitation is denied or interfered with by a parent without good cause, then the other parent may file a Motion for Family Access Order with the court. A family access motion does not require legal counsel in order to prepare it or file it with the court. Court clerks will provide an explanation for the procedures for filing a family access motion as well as a form to use in filing the motion. The specifics of the violation of the parenting plan must be stated in the family access motion. The noncompliant parent will be served with the motion and a summons to appear in court. There will be a hearing at which the court will determine whether there has been a violation of the order for custody or visitation without good cause.

Pursuant to either a family access motion or motion for contempt, upon a finding by the court that its order for custody or visitation has not been com plied with, without good cause, the court shall order a remedy, which may include, but is not limited to the following:

Compensatory or make-up time.
Participation by the parent violating the parenting plan in counseling to educate him/her about the importance of providing the child with a continuing and meaningful relationship with both parents.
Assessment of a fine up to $500 dollars against the noncompliant parent payable to the other parent.
Requiring the noncompliant parent to post bond or security to ensure future compliance with the court’s access orders.
Requiring the noncompliant parent to pay the other parent’s attorney’s fees.
Ordering the noncompliant parent to pay the cost of counseling to reestablish the parent-child relationship between the child and the other parent.

A person who chooses not to follow the parenting plan is choosing to violate a court order. Courts do not look favorably on violations of their orders without good cause. When a parent no longer follows the parenting plan without good cause, there are remedies available to the other parent, but the parent seeking compliance must take steps to get them.

If you are interested in learning more about how to enforce a court order, please contact the firm today to schedule a time to talk to one of our experienced attorneys.

Voting for Judges in St. Louis—Understanding the Process for Appointing and Reviewing Judges

Tue, 27 Oct 2020 14:50:43 GMT

On November 3rd, Missouri voters will be asked to vote, not only on their leaders in the executive and legislative branches of government, but the judiciary, as we ll. Some voters may think that because they do not have any direct experience with the Missouri judges on the ballot, they should skip those ballot questions or vote blindly. Fortunately, however, there are resources available for voters to quickly and easily educate themselves in order to have a voice in their judicial branch.

Missouri’s judicial branch is made up of three levels of courts: The Supreme Court, four Appellate Courts, and 46 local Circuit Courts. Judges presiding in the Missouri Supreme Court, Appellate Courts, and six counties, including St. Louis City and St. Louis County, are selected using the “Missouri Plan” , also known as the Missouri Non-Partisan Court Plan . Under the Missouri Plan, judges apply for their positions and are evaluated and selected for a panel by a judicial commission made up of an appellate court judge, citizens appointed by the governor of Missouri, and lawyers elected by the members of the Missouri Bar. Three panelists are then selected and submitted to the governor, who selects the judge from the three panelists.

After judges are appointed, they are then periodically submitted to the voters to determine whether they should be retained in their positions. Any judge who receives a majority of “yes” votes will stay on the bench for that term. Unlike other counties in Missouri and some other states, judges under the Missouri Plan do not declare a party affiliation.

The goals of the Missouri Plan are to provide transparency to the public in the process for the selection and retention of judges and hold judges accountable to the people, who are ultimately responsible for keeping them on the bench. The Missouri Plan only works as intended if the voters accept the responsibility of evaluating and retaining their judges and educate themselves about the judges in order to make informed decisions.

To assist in deciding whether to retain judges, Missouri has a committee made up of lawyers, non-lawyers, and retired judges who review judges to advise whether they substantially meet judicial performance standards. The committee evaluates the judges based on lawyers’ ratings, jurors’ ratings, and written opinions from judges. During the current review cycle, the committee concluded that all 52 judges on the ballot for retention on November 3rd substantially meet overall judicial performance standards.

You can find more information about the judges and the history and details of the Missouri Plan at www.yourMissouriJudges.com.

Child Custody 101: Legal Custody vs. Physical Custody

Thu, 08 Oct 2020 17:03:55 GMT

Whether you are considering divorce or in the middle of a contentious custody case, it is important to understand the different types of child custody so that you can create a parenting plan that works best for you and your family.

Legal Custody vs. Physical Custody – What’s the Difference?

Legal custody refers to the rights and the obligation to make decisions about a child. The types of decisions can include choices such as: education, religious upbringing, non-emergency medical decisions or procedures, extracurricular activities, childcare provider, choice of pediatrician or counselor, purchase or operation of a motor vehicle, contraception and sex education, and even decisions relating to actual or potential litigation on behalf of the children.

Legal custody decisions are major decisions affecting the health, welfare, and education of the child. Day-to-day decision making, such as what to eat for lunch, which emergency room to bring the child to if they break their foot, or what type of toothpaste to use is up to the parent exercising parenting time at that time.

Physical custody refers to which parent the child is physically with at any given time, specifically, where the child is residing that night and which parent is caring for them. This type of custody is what most people think of when they hear “parenting time,” “parenting schedule,” or “custody arrangement.” It is the custody schedule that you are negotiating. It is important to take into account school, work, and travel schedules when deciding on physical custody.

Sole Custody vs. Joint Custody – What’s the Difference?

Now that you know the difference between legal custody and physical custody, we can talk about the four types of physical custody and legal custody arrangements you can request, and what that means for you and your child. Within legal custody and physical custody, parents either have sole legal or joint legal, and sole physical or joint physical custody.

Joint legal custody is the most common type of legal custody. It refers to both parents making decisions together for the best interest of the child. Of course, as in any family, there are some decisions where parents may not see eye to eye. Opening the lines of communication can be difficult for a family going through a period of transition; however, it is important, now more than ever, for parents to listen, empathize, and compromise with one another when it comes to making decisions that will affect their children for years to come.

Sole legal custody refers to one parent having the sole authority to make decisions regarding health, education, and welfare on behalf of the child. This is not typical of most custody situations; however, it is not altogether rare. There are some situations when parents may agree, or a judge may order, that one parent should have sole legal custody of the child. Such circumstances that may warrant sole legal custody include, but are not limited to: one parent living a great distance away, there is a significant history of abuse or neglect, or one parent significant and untreated substance abuse or mental health issues.

Joint physical custody , a s with joint legal custody, is the most common form of physical custody. In this scenario, the parents share equal parenting time of the child, or close to equal. A joint physical custody schedule can look very different for different people. There is no cookie-cutter way to share parenting time that can be applied to every family. In negotiating a parenting plan, be sure to keep in mind work and school schedules. Some schedules may look great on paper but remember these schedules have to work for you and your family in your every day lives.

Sole physical custody refers to one parent being given all or almost all of the physical time with the child. It is uncommon for one parent to be given sole physical custody, but it is an option when one parent has significant impairments that affect their ability and willingness to actively perform their functions as a parent. Such impairments may include, but are not limited to: untreated substance or alcohol abuse, untreated mental illness, or abusive or neglectful behaviors.

Physical Custody vs. Visitation Rights – What’s the Difference?

If one parent is granted sole physical custody due to the other parent’s inability to parent safely or effectively, it does not mean that the other parent cannot see their child at all. In some i nstances, for a myriad of reasons, a parent may be awarded sole physical custody and the other parent given visitation rights. The parent with sole physical custody will have custody of the child most of the time and the other parent will have visitation time with the child, a shorter period of time that may include some overnight visits.

There are circumstances that may require a parent’s visitation time to be supervised for the safety of the child. Most courts offer supervised visitation at the courthouse or court-approved centers, where a court-appointed/approved supervisor oversees the visit. Other times a court may allow a family member to supervise the visits with the parent. There are also private supervisors that can be involved, hourly rates ranging from of $50-$75.

Child custody is an overwhelming and emotional decision. Consulting with experienced attorneys who are knowledgeable and understanding can help ease your mind and the process of designing a parenting plan that works for you and your family. Contact us today to consult about your custody options.

Allison Gerli Receives Bar Association Award of Merit at Law Day 2020

Fri, 02 Oct 2020 17:09:01 GMT

Congratulations to Allison Gerli and all of the BAMSL Law Day 2020 Award Recipients.

The Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis (BAMSL) has selected attorney Allison Gerli as one of five attorneys to receive the 2019-2020 Young Lawyers Division Award of Merit (YLD). This award is given to YLD members to recognize their service to the organization. Allison has been a YLD board member since 2014, serving as Treasurer, chairperson of Read Across America, and co-chairperson for the Motion for Kids Trivia Night. This is Allison's third time receiving the YLD Award of Merit at BAMSL's Law Day.

BAMSL will recognize the winners of the YLD Award of Merit at the 2020 Law Day Awards Ceremony on October 2, 2020 on the steps of the Thomas F. Eagleton United States Courthouse.

What is Law Day?

Law Day is an annual event taking place across the nation on May 1 to recognize the rule of law. (BAMSL rescheduled this year's Law Day Awards Ceremony to October 2 in response to coronavirus.)

Established in 1958 by President Eisenhower, Law Day is celebrated by bar groups, courts, schools, and community organizations throughout the country and the world. Law Day aims to recognize and educate Americans about how the legal process strives to protect our freedoms and achieve justice for all.

The Impact of Dividing Debts at Divorce

Tue, 22 Sep 2020 20:29:24 GMT

What Happens To Debt After Divorce? Who is Responsible? What You Need To Know.

You and your spouse may have accumulated debts of various types during the course of your marriage. If so, you are probably concerned about how to divide those debts and what the consequences will be if the debts are not paid, particularly if you do not trust that your spouse will be responsible about making payments.

If a debt was undertaken by you and your spouse jointly (generally the case for home mortgage and car loans, and often the case for credit cards), you and your spouse probably are jointly and severally liable for payment of that debt. This means that the creditor can pursue either or both of you to obtain payment.

The creditor (bank, mortgage company, department store, credit card company, etc.) is not a party to your dissolution of marriage proceeding. In the divorce settlement, the debts will be allocated between you and your spouse by agreement or, if you have a trial, the Judge will order who is responsible for each debt.

Despite the allocation of debt in a divorce judgment, debts in joint names will remain in joint names, unless the person the debt is allocated removes the other party from responsibility. The creditor is not bound by any agreements reached between the two of you as to who is responsible post-divorce, nor is it bound by a court order as to who is responsible for the debt. A creditor can still pursue either you or your spouse for an unpaid debt, regardless of who the court designates to pay the debt.

As a result, it is important to understand that, even when a court specifically orders that one party is solely responsible for payment of a home mortgage or other loan or other debt, if both parties’ names remain on the loan or debt, both parties remain responsible for its payment. Transfer of the title of your home by quitclaim or other deed does not in any way alter your obligation under an existing mortgage loan.

The divorce judgment may include an indemnification and hold harmless clause . Typically, these provisions are used so that a party who agrees or is ordered to pay a certain debt is responsible for reimbursing the other party if the other party ends up paying the debt instead. Although these clauses do provide you with recourse through the courts should your former spouse fail to pay a debt, as a practical matter, if the creditor has been unable to collect form your former spouse, your chances of doing so are not much better. Your goal should be to reduce the risk of problems related to the marital debt post-divorce.

What To Consider When Settling Your Case

If you are hoping to settle your case, it is important to consider your spouse’s likelihood to responsibly pay the debt that is allocated in the settlement. The spouse’s failure to pay, or failure to pay on time, can affect your credit rating and of course impact you in other ways.

Sometimes parties agree to delay selling or refinancing the house for a period of years so that one of the spouses can remain in it after the divorce. Often that spouse is not able to qualify to refinance at the time of divorce. If you are the non-resident spouse and you are considering this option, you need to consider what this could mean if you want to purchase a residence or take on some other large debt before the time for your spouse to refinance or sell the home arrives. The obligation on the mortgage may result in your being denied credit, even if your spouse is paying the mortgage on time. This is something that we may need to discuss as settlement options are generated.

It may be important for both spouses to obtain credit reports to ensure all debt is being disclosed and addressed as part of the divorce process. This is something that can be requested of both parties to a divorce.

Please discuss your current debt situation with your attorney so that the appropriate measures such as closing accounts may be taken to protect your credit rating and preserve martial assets. You need to be aware of all outstanding debts when preparing settlement options or proposing how property and debt will be divided at trial.

If you have questions or concerns about your situation, the attorneys at The Center for Family Law are here to help.

Military Divorce: What You Need to Know

Thu, 10 Sep 2020 19:10:46 GMT

Military divorces and separations are unique. These cases are different from civilian divorces in that they bring special, military-only benefits to the bargaining table—specifically, military retirement and health benefits. Strict rules apply to these benefits a spouse will maintain post-divorce. Whether you or your spouse are in the military, in active duty, in the reserves, or retired, it is very important that you work with an attorney with experience in military divorce.

Below are a few points that a service member (active duty, reserves, or retired) and his/her spouse should be sure to discuss with an attorney.

Division of a Military Pension

Service members who serve at least 20* active duty years (or have the equivalent in reserves points), or who are medically retired, will draw a pension, also referred to as an annuity. The portion of that pension that comes from DFAS (Defense Finance and Accounting Service) is divisible at divorce. The portion that comes from the VA (Veteran’s Affairs) is intended to make the service member whole, and is not divisible. *This is under the old, “legacy” system. The retirement system for military members has recently changed. Please see “Recent Law Changes”, below.

TRICARE and Base Privileges (PX and Commissary)

If during a 20-year+ marriage, the service member has at least 20 years’ active duty service or the equivalent in reserves points: (1) any portion of the service member’s pension that is allocated to the spouse at divorce may be directly deposited from DFAS and into the spouse’s account; (2) the spouse may keep TRICARE benefits for life so long as he/she does not remarry or obtain healthcare from an employer; and (3) the spouse maintains base privileges for life. If you have only been married for 10 years or 15 years, you may qualify for some of these benefits as well. Be sure to discuss with an attorney.
If you are a military spouse not eligible for continued TRICARE, your TRICARE benefits will terminate at midnight the day before your final divorce judgment is entered. You should look into CHCBP (a military version of COBRA) before your TRICARE benefits expire. Some are eligible for CHCBP for a limited time, and some are eligible for life.

Do Not Leave Assets on the Table

SBP (Survivor Benefit Plan) – talk with your lawyer about this. If the service member draws a pension, he or she may pay a relatively low monthly fee to allow the spouse to collect the service member’s pension if the service member predeceases the spouse.
SGLI (Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance) – All service members are automatically enrolled in this low-cost life insurance plan upon entering military service. SGLI can be maintained into retirement, as well, and remains a low-cost option.

Servicemembers Civil Relief Act

You may be wondering about the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA), which entitles a deployed service member to stay (delay) family law proceedings during deployment and during their R&R period following deployment. The stay is not automatic. Talk with your lawyer about the SCRA.

Recent Law Changes

2017 National Defense Authorization Act

Under the old rule, qualifying, divorced spouses of military members were granted a percentage of the marital portion (the portion of the pension earned during the marriage) based on the service member’s rank and years of service at retirement.
Under the current rule, qualifying spouses are granted their portion based on the service member’s rank and years of service at the time of divorce.

In 2018, the retirement benefit system for service members was completely revamped, and is now both more competitive with major civilian employers and much more beneficial to members who serve fewer than 20 years. This means that now, even service members with only a few years’ service will have a divisible pension at divorce. The new system applies to new military members and to those who joined after 2006 and opted in to this new plan during the 2018 opt-in period.

The TSP (Thrift Savings Plan – this functions like a 401(k)) is still the primary retirement vehicle for service members, but is no longer elective. Everyone is automatically enrolled.
The military automatically contributes 1% of the service member’s base pay to the TSP after 60 days of service, and matches up to 5% of service member contributions after two years of service. The TSP vests after two years.
Military pension is now 2% of base pay times number of years of service (slightly down from 2.5% under the old system)
Retired members may elect to take a portion of their pension in a lump sum.

An attorney experienced in military divorce will be able to discuss these issues with you, along with other details of your military life that make your case unique. We are proud to serve U.S. Military members and their families at the Center for Family Law.

Trisha McCulloch Joins The Center for Family Law

mhagan@thecenterforfamilylaw.com (Michelle Hagan) — Tue, 01 Sep 2020 21:20:44 GMT

Trisha McCulloch joins The Center for Family Law as an Of Counsel Attorney.

The Center for Family Law is pleased to announce the addition of attorney Trisha McCulloch. Trisha will be based in the St. Charles office, which has recently moved to 415 N. Second Street in the historic district of St. Charles. Her legal assistant, Diane Koenigsfeld is also joining the firm.

Trisha joins the firm after successfully running her own family law practice, TEM Law, LLC, in St. Charles since 2015. Prior to that, she practiced family law with her father-in-law in St. Charles as part of Todt Ryan & McCulloch, LLC. In 2014, Trisha was appointed as a contract Guardian ad Litem for the St. Charles County Juvenile Center. She has also served as a provisional judge for Cottleville Municipal Court since 2015. Trisha is an active member of the St. Charles County Bar Association, St. Charles County Family Resource Center, and Young Lawyer’s Section of the Missouri Bar.

Trisha was born and raised in Wisconsin. She moved to Missouri in 2009 to attend UMKC School of Law, where she graduated with honors and an emphasis in family law. After graduating from UMKC, Trisha and her husband moved to the St. Louis area to start her legal career. They now have three children and enjoy going on adventures as often as possible.

Firm Procedures During COVID-19

Thu, 19 Mar 2020 20:37:55 GMT

Firm Procedures During COVID-19

Amidst the health concerns during the COVID-19, family law problems do not go away. In fact, there may be increased needs for information and legal advice on family law issues. The Center for Family Law is in business and available to assist whether you are an existing client or someone seeking information about our services for your situation. We are working to comply with the ever-changing recommendations and orders for protecting our health and our clients’ health. At the present time, we will not have in-person meetings. We will work with clients, attorneys and those inquiring about our services via email, telephone and video conference. Please know the county courthouses are keeping us informed as to their policies and procedures for the hearing of cases; those polices are continuing to evolve. Do not assume that any scheduled court date will take place. Check with your attorney to find out if a court date will take place or if it is being postponed.

We hope that the current restrictions on all of our activities will be short-term. However, none of us knows what to expect in the next weeks or months. We will update as information changes. Do not hesitate to contact us for more information.

The Association of Family and Conciliation Courts (AFCC) and the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML) have provided a joint statement of guidelines for separated parents during the COVID-19

Thu, 19 Mar 2020 20:33:05 GMT

AFCC/AAML

Families are facing daily challenges in managing life in a new reality. With long histories of working to assist children and families who experience separation and divorce, The Association of Family and Conciliation Courts (AFCC) and the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML) have provided a joint statement of guidelines for separated parents during the COVID-19 Pandemic. If you have questions or concerns, please contact a family law attorney for more guidance.

Seven Guidelines for Parents Who Are Divorce/Separated and Sharing Custody of Children During the COVID19 Pandemic

From the leaders of groups that deal with families in crisis:

Susan Myres, President of American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML)

Dr. Matt Sullivan, President of Association of Family and Conciliation Courts (AFCC)

Annette Burns, AAML and Former President of AFCC

Yasmine Mehmet, AAML

Kim Bonuomo, AAML

Nancy Kellman, AAML

Dr. Leslie Drozd, AFCC

Dr. Robin Deutsch, AFCC

Jill Peña, Executive Director of AAML

Peter Salem, Executive Director of AFCC

1. BE HEALTHY.

Comply with all CDC and local and state guidelines and model good behavior for your children with intensive hand washing, wiping down surfaces and other objects that are frequently touched, and maintaining social distancing. This also means BE INFORMED. Stay in touch with the most reliable media sources and avoid the rumor mill on social media.

2. BE MINDFUL.

Be honest about the seriousness of the pandemic but maintain a calm attitude and convey to your children your belief that everything will return to normal in time. Avoid making careless comments in front of the children and exposing them to endless media coverage intended for adults. Don’t leave the news on 24/7, for instance. But, at the same time, encourage your children to ask questions and express their concerns and answer them truthfully at a level that is age-appropriate.

3. BE COMPLIANT with court orders and custody agreements.

As much as possible, try to avoid reinventing the wheel despite the unusual circumstances. The custody agreement or court order exists to prevent endless haggling over the details of timesharing. In some jurisdictions there are even standing orders mandating that, if schools are closed, custody agreements should remain in force as though school were still in session.

4. BE CREATIVE.

At the same time, it would be foolish to expect that nothing will change when people are being advised not to fly and vacation attractions such as amusement parks, museums and entertainment venues are closing all over the US and the world. In addition, some parents will have to work extra hours to help deal with the crisis and other parents may be out of work or working reduced hours for a time. Plans will inevitably have to change. Encourage closeness with the parent who is not going to see the child through shared books, movies, games and FaceTime or Skype.

5. BE TRANSPARENT.

Provide honest information to your co-parent about any suspected or confirmed exposure to the virus, and try to agree on what steps each of you will take to protect the child from exposure. Certainly both parents should be informed at once if the child is exhibiting any possible symptoms of the virus.

6. BE GENEROUS.

Try to provide makeup time to the parent who missed out, if at all possible. Family law judges expect reasonable accommodations when they can be made and will take seriously concerns raised in later filings about parents who are inflexible in highly unusual circumstances.

7. BE UNDERSTANDING.

There is no doubt that the pandemic will pose an economic hardship and lead to lost earnings for many, many parents, both those who are paying child support and those who are receiving child support. The parent who is paying should try to provide something, even if it can’t be the full amount. The parent who is receiving payments should try to be accommodating under these challenging and temporary circumstances.

Adversity can become an opportunity for parents to come together and focus on what is best for the child. For many children, the strange days of the pandemic will leave vivid memories. It’s important for every child to know and remember that both parents did everything they could to explain what was happening and to keep their child safe.

Firm Participates in Read Across America

Mon, 09 Mar 2020 15:12:24 GMT

Read Across America

Members of our firm had a blast participating in Read Across America last week. The event was organized by the Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis, Young Lawyers Division. Attorney Allison Gerli served as the chair for this year’s event. Read Across America is annual event all across the country that celebrates the birthday of Dr. Seuss by encouraging children to enjoy reading. Members of the St. Louis legal community volunteer to read to students and lead them in conversations about the importance of reading.

At this year’s event, each student received a book to take home. The book was titled “We’re More Alike than Different” by Sophia Day and Megan Johnson, and celebrated diversity. They also enjoyed a quick game of Dr. Seuss Bingo before the visit was over. We cannot wait for next year!

Cynthia Albin Featured Speaker at a Continuing Legal Education Seminar

Thu, 27 Feb 2020 16:00:35 GMT

Cynthia Albin was a featured speaker at a sold-out Continuing Legal Education Seminar on February 21, 2020, sponsored by the Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis. A frequent speaker at legal education programs, Ms. Albin spoke about psychological evaluations, co-parenting counseling and parenting coordination from her perspective as a Guardian ad Litem and and litigator.

Kate Stapleton Joins The Center for Family Law

Wed, 15 Jan 2020 06:49:14 GMT

Kate Stapleton joined the Center for Family Law as an Of Counsel Attorney in 2020.

Kate joins the firm after nearly four years of running a successful family law practice, first in Washington State, and then in Missouri. Originally from St. Louis, Kate graduated cum laude from Truman State University. She later earned her J.D. at Saint Mary’s University School of Law in San Antonio, Texas, where she interned with the Army JAG Corps. This experience, coupled with her years spent as a military spouse, lends her a robust understanding of military benefits, assets, and their correct allocation at divorce.

Kate lends her time to Volunteer Services of Eastern Missouri and regularly volunteers as a Court Attorney for order of protection dockets at the St. Louis County Circuit Court. Her practice focuses on empowering people to thrive, during and after the divorce process.

Kate loves to travel and has lived in Niger, West Africa through her time in the Peace Corps from 2006 to 2008. After having a family, Kate lived in San Antonio, Honolulu, and Tacoma, Washington during her husband’s military career. She returned home to St. Louis in 2017 with her husband and two children. During her free time, Kate enjoys cycling, hot yoga, painting, and reading.

Settlement is Reached – How Do We Get Divorced?

Wed, 01 Jan 2020 15:49:39 GMT

Reaching an agreement with your spouse is only step one in the process of getting divorced or legally separated.

Whether you are able to resolve your case through mediation or by you and your spouse working things out without mediation or attorneys (sometimes referred to as a kitchen table divorce), it is important to understand the steps that come next.

Drafting and Reviewing of the Agreements.

The mediator or an attorney representing one spouse usually prepares documents that detail the settlement that you have reached. Both spouses will have the opportunity to review the documents with attorneys and address any changes. If there are children, there will be a parenting plan, outlining schedules, decision-making and financial terms. There is a document called a Separation Agreement that outlines your terms related to the division of property, debt, and spousal support (maintenance), if any.

Initial Filing.

One spouse must file the papers in court in order to begin the legal process. The person filing is called Petitioner and the other spouse is called Respondent. Petitioner files a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage, Income and Expense Statement, Statement of Property, and a Certificate of Dissolution of Marriage. One spouse should retain an attorney to prepare and file the documents required to initiate and finalize the dissolution process. This attorney is not an attorney who can assist both of you. If the other party chooses, he or she may have an attorney, often just to review and advise on the settlement.

Filing Fee and Costs.

The spouse who files must pay a filing fee to the court. It varies depending upon the county in which the divorce is filed; it is in the neighborhood of $150.00.

Service.

In order to establish with the court the fact that Respondent has notice of the lawsuit, Respondent must be “served” or waive service. Service in a lawsuit is usually achieved by a sheriff or a process server bringing the papers directly to the person at work or home. When a couple is working together to accomplish the divorce, either an attorney can accept service on behalf of Respondent or Respondent can sign a document acknowledging receipt of the court papers and waiving service. If an attorney accepts the papers, the attorney files what is called an Entry of Appearance with the Court. The document the Respondent will sign is called a Waiver of Service of Summons and Entry of Appearance. The court must have confirmation of service or the Waiver to proceed with the divorce.

Answer.

After the Petition is served, Respondent may file an Answer to the Petition, which is the person’s response to the Petition. If no action is taken by Respondent, Respondent is in default. The Answer is due 30 days after the service of the Petition (or the filing of the entry by an attorney or the waiver). Respondent may file not only an answer to the Petition, but may also file his or her own Petition, called a Counter-Petition. This must be answered by Petitioner within 30 days. In a case where all agreements have been reached before the case is filed, Respondent may choose not to file an Answer because Petitioner, through an attorney, is going to take the responsibility to process the settlement documents with court.

Mandatory Parenting Class.

If you have children who are under 19, there is a required class for parents involved in most family law matters. Most of the judges will not sign the settlement documents until both parents have taken it. It can be taken before the case is filed.

Settlement Documents.

This will include the Judgment for Dissolution or Legal Separation, Separation Agreement, Parenting Plan and Form 14 Child Support Calculation (if children involved), and Affidavits signed by both spouses. The Affidavit is what permits you to avoid going to court and appearing before a judge to testify.

30-Day Wait Period.

The settlement documents cannot be submitted to the court for signing by a judge until after a 30-day period following the date that service was achieved on Respondent (i.e. Respondent’s Waiver was filed with the court or an attorney filed his or her Entry of Appearance on behalf of Respondent). After that time has passed, the settlement documents can be submitted to the court for signing by the judge. The documents are filed with the court electronically. Depending on the judge, it may take a few days or longer before the judgment is signed. The waiting period does not prohibit you from starting to abide by your agreements and your settlement paperwork can include specific starting dates for all of the terms to go into effect.

Judgment is Entered.

You are divorced or legally separated on the date that the judge signs. The signed judgment will come to the attorneys electronically. Later the attorneys receive a certified copy, which you may need in order to take care of some of the follow up on the division of property. A judgment is not considered “final” for an additional thirty days, though that 30-day period does not impact you moving forward.

If you are interested in learning more about the divorce process, the attorneys at The Center for Family Law would be happy to talk with you. To schedule a consultation, go here or call (314) 721-8844 .

Four Attorneys Recognized by Missouri & Kansas Super Lawyers in 2019

Tue, 19 Nov 2019 07:33:53 GMT

The Center for Family Law is proud to announce that Ann Bauer, Alan Zvibleman, and Penny Robinson have been listed as 2019 Missouri and Kansas Super Lawyers in the area of Family Law. Super Lawyers has selected Ann 13 times, Alan 14 times, and Penny 9 times.

Additionally, Allison Gerli has been selected a 2019 Rising Star. This is her second time being selected.

Courtney Green Joins The Center for Family Law

Fri, 20 Sep 2019 05:57:50 GMT

The Center for Family Law is pleased to announce the addition of Courtney Green to the firm as an associate attorney.

Courtney was born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri where she attended Eureka high school. She graduated summa cum laude with her Bachelors of Art degree in psychology with a minor in human development and family studies from the University of Alabama.

Directly after receiving her bachelor’s degree at Alabama, Courtney began her studies at Washington University in St. Louis School of Law where she obtained her Juris Doctor in May 2019. Courtney started clerking for The Center for Family Law during law school in the summer of 2018 and, upon her admission to the Missouri Bar in September 2019, she transitioned to an associate attorney position.

Courtney could not be happier to be gaining experience in her hometown of St. Louis. She is a self-proclaimed thrill-seeker and is always looking for a new adventure. Along with being a fan of local sports teams such as the St. Louis Blues and St. Louis Cardinals, Courtney can always be found cheering on the Alabama Crimson Tide.

Preparing for Depositions

Mon, 16 Sep 2019 14:56:57 GMT

Both parties in a family law dispute have the right to engage in discovery which may include depositions. A deposition is a witness’s out-of-court testimony, under oath, used to gather information as part of the “discovery process,” which occurs when a case is contested and headed toward trial. If you are being deposed, the attorney for the other side will ask you questions. The person being deposed is called the “deponent.” A court reporter will be present to record the questions, your answers, and any objections made by your attorney in order to create a transcript. The transcript may be used at trial by your attorney to help provide the judge with additional evidence or by the attorney on the other side in an attempt to “poke holes” in your testimony during cross examination at trial.

Below are tips to help prepare you for depositions.

Listen carefully to the questions you are asked. This might be the single most important piece of advice. A witness who follows this advice accomplishes many of the goals of a successful deposition. Wait until the question is finished before beginning to answer. Answer if you understand the question. Answer the question asked, and only that question. Give your lawyer the opportunity to interject an objection in a timely fashion. Let the examining attorney finish the question before the answer is given.
Be sure you understand a question before you answer. A witness does not do anyone a favor by trying to answer a question he or she did not understand. Lawyers are fond of asking long, complex and often convoluted questions, not necessarily to confuse the witness, but often with that result. If the question is too long, contains words the witness does not understand, or just does not make sense, the witness should ask to have the question rephrased. If you do not understand the question, say so.
Answer the questions clearly and simply. The best answer is a short one. Any question that can be answered “yes” or “no” should be. Do not delve into lengthy explanations in response to the simplest questions. This has the effect of prolonging the deposition and possibly causing the examining lawyer to inquire into areas that would otherwise have been missed.
Answer only the question you are asked. A witness should concentrate on what the lawyer asks, and answer only that question as briefly as possible.
Do not volunteer information, and do not guess or speculate. You are not there to tell the other lawyer your story, you are there to answer questions. Witnesses are sorely tempted to want to “get to the point”. Although a witness might believe the lawyer is either unable or unwilling to find out what he knows, the deponent should simply answer the questions asked and nothing else. If you are going to tell a story, let it be under your lawyer’s guidance in front of the Judge! Make the attorney deposing you work for the information; never give more than they ask for.
If you do not know or recall the answer to a question, say so. Some witnesses feel they have to answer every question. The simple truth is a witness will not remember or know the answer to every question. It is perfectly acceptable to say so. In fact, it is much better for you to admit that you do not know or recall something than to guess or speculate about an answer and be wrong.
Refer to exhibits if they contain the information necessary to answer questions. A witness is frequently asked to read, describe or interpret information that is contained within an exhibit. Take all the time that you need to read and review an exhibit. In addition, if it is necessary to refer to an exhibit to give accurate testimony, do so.
Do not hurry. Some witnesses, anxious to have the deposition over, think they should answer questions as quickly as possible. However, answering questions too quickly causes many problems. For example, when the witness and the questioning attorney talk at the same time, it becomes impossible for the court reporter to transcribe accurately. Ironically, answering questions too quickly will likely have the effect of prolonging the deposition, not ending it. A brief pause between the end of the question and the beginning of the answer gives the lawyer time to finish the question and gives the witness time to consider the answer. If you become concerned and wish to consult with your attorney, request a break.
Be courteous, polite and respectful. Never argue with the lawyer. Let the lawyers do the arguing. Depositions are serious business and should be treated as such.
Tell the truth. The oath that you take at the beginning of the deposition is the exact same oath you take when appearing in Court before a judge. A witness should tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. Most people are not used to talking that way, but it’s the best way to avoid trouble in a deposition

If you are interested in consulting with one of our experienced attorneys at The Center for Family Law, we would be happy to sit down with you. To schedule a consultation, go here or call (314) 721-8844 .

Alan N. Zvibleman helps present a $5,000 grant to Kids in the Middle

Mon, 11 Jan 2016 06:00:00 GMT

Alan N. Zvibleman, a member of The American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers Foundation – a national charitable organization committed to helping protect children and families – helped present a $5,000 grant to Kids in the Middle.

The St. Louis-based charity was founded in 1977, and provides individual and group counseling services for children, services for parents including consultation, individual counseling, co-parenting counseling for high-conflict parents, and family and blended family counseling. This gift will help to expand and enhance their work throughout the metropolitan area. The American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers Foundation annually awards grants to a wide range of charities throughout the nation that provide programs or services related to supporting families and/or improving the practice of family law. www.AAMLFoundation.org .

The Center For Family Law Newsroom

Honoring a Leader Who Lifts Others Up: Courtney Green Receives Women's Justice Mentor Award

Second Saturday Workshop - 2026 Dates

The Center for Family Law is excited to kick off its fifth year of hosting the Second Saturday Divorce Workshops and to share the 2026 workshop dates.

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Honoring Four Attorneys for 2025 Super Lawyers® and Rising Stars

The Center for Family Law Recognized in 2026 "Best Law Firms" Rankings

Four Attorneys at The Center for Family Law Recognized by Best Lawyers® 2026

Ann Bauer named Best Lawyers® 2026 "Lawyer of the Year" in Collaborative Family Law

Meet Our Newest Family Law Attorney: Robert Boedeker

Honoring Ann Bauer: 27th Women's Justice Awards Mentor Award Winner

Second Saturday Workshop - 2025 Dates

The Center for Family Law is excited to announce the start of its fourth year hosting the Second Saturday Divorce Workshops, providing valuable support and guidance to individuals navigating the divorce process.

Tips for Co-Parenting During the Holidays

Trivia Night for a Cause: Supporting Children Impacted by the Criminal Justice System

Four Attorneys Recognized as 2024 Super Lawyers® and Rising Stars

Welcoming Jill Hetherington: A New Attorney at The Center for Family Law

Welcome Kristen Sparks as TCFL Partner

Ann Bauer: A Pillar of Family Law Recognized at the 2024 ICON Awards

Navigate Divorce with Confidence in 2024 with Second Saturday

The Center for Family Law Ranked as 2024 "Best Law Firms" in St. Louis

Navigating Family Law: Insights from the 23rd Annual Family Law Conference

Ann Bauer recognized as the Best Lawyers® 2024 "Lawyer of the Year" for Collaborative Family Law in St. Louis

This is Ann's 10th year being recognized on the Best Lawyers list. For 2024, she was included for her work in family law, family law mediation, and collaborative law.

Ann is a proud member of the St. Louis Collaborative Family Law Association. Ann values her work in collaborative divorce and the positive impact it has on her clients and families. ﻿

A Bittersweet Goodbye: Honoring Penny Robinson and Alan Zvibleman

Attorney Courtney Green Receives BAMSL Award of Merit at Law Day 2023

Congratulations to Courtney and all of the BAMSL Law Day 2023 Award Recipients.

The Firm could not be more proud of Courtney’s continued commitment and dedication to serving the bar and STL community.

BAMSL will recognize the winners of the YLD Award of Merit at the Law Day Awards Ceremony on May 1, 2023, at the Missouri Athletic Club. Illinois Attorney General Kwane Raoul is the event’s keynote speaker.

What is Law Day?

Law Day is an annual event taking place across the nation on May 1 to recognize the rule of law.

Established in 1958 by President Eisenhower, Law Day is celebrated by bar groups, courts, schools, and community organizations worldwide. Law Day aims to recognize and educate Americans about how the legal process strives to protect our freedoms and achieve justice for all.

Click this link to learn more about Law Day.

How to Talk to Your Child When a GAL is Appointed

Second Saturday Workshop - 2023 Dates

The Center for Family Law is excited to continue to host and present Second Saturday Divorce Workshops for second year

Seven Attorneys Recognized as Super Lawyers® and Rising Stars

The Center for Family Law Ranked as 2023 "Best Law Firms"

Four Attorneys at The Center for Family Law Recognized in 2023 Best Lawyers® in America

Lawyers on The Best Lawyers in America list are divided by geographic region and practice areas. They are reviewed by their peers on the basis of professional expertise, and undergo an authentication process to make sure they are in current practice and in good standing.

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To schedule a consultation, please click here .

Understanding the Role of the Guardian ad Litem

The Center for Family Law's Clayton Office is Moving!

The Center for Family Law is excited to announce that we are moving! Effective Monday, December 20, our Clayton office address will be: 230 S. Bemiston Avenue, Suite 405, St. Louis, Missouri 63105.

The Clayton office will be closed December 16 and 17 for the move. Our server will be down starting December 15 at 5:00 p.m. and should be back online on December 17 in the morning. We appreciate your patience and understanding during this time.

If you are interested in talking to an attorney at the firm during this time, please complete the consultation request form, located here , and someone will get back to you as soon as we are able.

Our phones will be off on December 16. If you are calling on a current case and require immediate attention, please reach out to the attorney on your case at their direct dial, listed on their profile page.

There is also metered parking on Bemiston Avenue in front of the building. Meters are paid by downloading the Passport Parking app.

Paying for parking. Cash or by a token. The Firm will cover parking for clients and will provide clients with parking tokens upon arrival or departure. Meters are paid through the Passport Parking app via credit/debit card.

The Center for Family Law Earns 2022 "Best Law Firm" Ranking by U.S. News and Best Lawyers®

Attorney Trisha McCulloch Running for Judge in St. Charles County. Come Celebrate!

Three Attorneys from The Center for Family Law Recognized by Best Lawyers. Penny Robinson Named "Lawyer of the Year."

The Center for Family Law is pleased to announce that 3 of its lawyers have been included in the 2022 Edition of The Best Lawyers in America.

In addition, Penny Robinson has been named "Lawyer of the Year" for 2022 in the area of Collaborative Law: Family Law for St. Louis. Each year, one lawyer in each practice area and community is honored with "Lawyer of the Year" award. Congratulations to Penny!

Lawyers on The Best Lawyers in America list are divided by geographic region and practice areas. They are reviewed by their peers on the basis of professional expertise, and undergo an authentication process to make sure they are in current practice and in good standing.

The Center for Family Law to Begin Hosting Second Saturday Divorce Workshop

First Workshop Scheduled for September 11, 2021

Financially Supporting Children After High School

In Missouri under present law, child support continues past high school until the age of 21, as long as the child attends college or a vocational school. In addition, parents can also be obligated to pay college expenses until the age of 21.

Pursuant to Section 452.340.5 of the Missouri Revised Statutes, in order for child support to remain in place and for parents to be responsible for college costs, the following requirements must be met:

Precautionary Actions to Take When Considering a Divorce

Precautionary Actions to Take When Considering a Divorce

Motion for Kids 2020: Celebrating the Holidays during COVID-19

The ABCs of Juvenile Court

Six Attorneys Selected to 2020 Missouri & Kansas Super Lawyers® and Rising Stars List

Three Lawyers named to 2021 Best Lawyers® List & Ann Bauer Named 2021 Lawyer of the Year

The Center for Family Law Ranked in 2021 "Best Law Firms"

What Happens When One Parent Doesn't Follow the Parenting Plan?

Unless the other parent takes steps to enforce the parenting plan, nothing happens. But, if the other parent wants to enforce the parenting plan – what options are available?

Voting for Judges in St. Louis—Understanding the Process for Appointing and Reviewing Judges

Child Custody 101: Legal Custody vs. Physical Custody

Allison Gerli Receives Bar Association Award of Merit at Law Day 2020

The Impact of Dividing Debts at Divorce

What Happens To Debt After Divorce? Who is Responsible? What You Need To Know.

Military Divorce: What You Need to Know

Trisha McCulloch Joins The Center for Family Law

Trisha McCulloch joins The Center for Family Law as an Of Counsel Attorney.

Firm Procedures During COVID-19

Ann is a proud member of the St. Louis Collaborative Family Law Association. Ann values her work in collaborative divorce and the positive impact it has on her clients and families.