How Do You Separate Social Media After Divorce?

Social Media Las Vegas DivorceSocial media is an important part of most people’s lives. The way we connect with our friends and families and share memories are all online. Sharing social media accounts and passwords with your spouse is natural. However, separating your social media lives is part of the divorce process. Many divorcing spouses have years of photos and posts online. While social media and other digital platforms provide a convenient way to share, the one aspect that it does not do well is delete.

Make Sure Your Divorce Attorney Agrees

Joint social media accounts may be community property. There are too many factors to go into detail in this article but our divorce attorneys know it’s important to consider how these accounts are handled during and after your divorce. You should not make any drastic moves without consulting with your divorce attorney first.

Limited Social Media Deletes

Once information is available online, it’s hard to remove all of it. And the longer the data has been online, the more likely it is to be on other platforms. In many instances, it’s wide-spread across websites that you aren’t even aware of.

The first step in separating your social media is to accept that you probably won’t be able to remove everything. So begin by removing what you can. You can also contact the little known websites that somehow have your information and ask them to remove it. However, the people who run these websites have no interest in deleting anything. Additionally, many are located internationally. This limits your legal process options. It’s also likely financially unwise. So, do the best you can but don’t obsess over it.

Protecting Your Privacy

Separating social media usually involves blocking access to accounts, blocking access to data, and separating accounts completely. These steps can help:

  • Change passwords to private accounts
  • Delete shared social media accounts and create new private ones
  • Backup, reformat, and re-install your electronic devices

When your online accounts go from “we” to “me”, you’ll want to start limiting access by changing the password. From health insurance to email to Facebook and other social media accounts, privacy becomes paramount during and after a divorce. It’s not a matter of being selfish or inconsiderate. Your life after marriage is a fresh start and you have every right to decide who can see it and who can’t.

You also want to be sure that there are no hidden files or “back doors” on the electronic devices you retain during and after your divorce. The best way to do this is to backup, reformat, and then reinstall the apps, programs, and verified clean data on each device. This can be complicated. So hiring a technology expert that has experience in these processes is a good idea. You can then have comfort in knowing that your new private social media life is just that – private.

 

How Do I Protect My Rights and Assets During Divorce?

How do I protect my rights and assets during divorceYour divorce attorney protects your rights and assets during divorce. If you have chosen a skilled and dedicated divorce lawyer, they will protect you. Listening to their advice and the reasons behind their strategy is paramount to achieving the best results. The best Las Vegas divorce attorneys know how to limit emotions in a divorce case. Going through a divorce is a unique experience for you. Attorneys dedicated to the practice of divorce law do it day-in and day-out. They have honed their skills over hundreds of divorce matters and likely know the tendencies of the opposing counsel and the family court judge assigned to your case. There is no substitute for their legal expertise and wealth of experience.

The top divorce lawyers always have their client’s best interest in mind. They do not have the emotional attachments you have. So, they know that it’s important to “pick your battles” wisely. They also know that, as time passes and things between you and your ex hopefully cool down, you’ll look back and appreciate the wisdom they used even more so.

Disagreeing with Your Divorce Attorney

If you disagree with how your divorce attorney is protecting your rights and assets – speak up. If there was ever a situation where open communication is important, this is it. No Las Vegas divorce attorney is a mind reader. While there are divorce lawyers whose egos exceed their expertise, the top Las Vegas divorce attorneys welcome input from their divorce clients. They want your active involvement. This is one way that you can protect yourself.

Regardless, you should always have the final decision in your divorce case. If you and your divorce attorney cannot agree – it’s time to get a new attorney. The same goes for divorce attorneys and their staff that do not promptly communicate with you. This is inexcusable, though sadly common.

Protecting Your Rights and Assets

If you have a short-term marriage, few assets and debts, and no children – most average divorce attorneys will do. However, if you have considerable at risk, you can lose your divorce case by hiring the wrong divorce attorney to represent you. Therefore, you should be prepared to pay legal fees that are directly proportional to what you have at risk.

The Divorce Attorney You Select

Divorce is an infrequent occurrence. So you understandably have little experience in the process. In general, when human beings are inexperienced in a process they often go with the least expensive option. This can be a critical mistake because there are a wide range of abilities – from incompetent to outstanding – among the attorneys who handle divorce cases in Las Vegas.

Divorce attorneys are similar to other professionals – doctors, dentists, CPAs, Financial Advisors, etc. None have the exact same level of expertise but rather they operate in a certain range. And like all professionals, some are better for certain circumstances than others. You should always consult with more than one divorce attorney in Las Vegas. Then go with your gut, stay involved in your case, and expect frequent and intelligent communications with your divorce lawyer.

When is an Attorney the Wrong Choice?

The answer is when you have a lot at stake and hire an discount divorce attorney. There is no one who is a better judge of the abilities of a divorce attorney than the attorney themselves. Those attorneys that charge cheap rates know themselves that they’re not worth more. And they’re almost always right!

Lowering the Cost of Divorce

If you and your spouse keep your emotions in check and conduct yourselves in a civil manner, your divorce will cost far less than if you both don’t. We understand that you cannot control your spouse. In addition, we cannot control their divorce attorney. Nonetheless, we never lose our focus on protecting you. Below are some issues that will increase the costs and time frame for a contested divorce case:

  • One or both parties are hell-bent for revenge
  • One party’s strategy is to drag the case on and “starve” the other party into accepting an unfair settlement
  • The case requires one or more property and/or business valuations
  • One party may have hidden assets
  • The division of assets and debts requires hiring a tax attorney
  • A Child custody dispute requires hiring child custody experts
  • Accurate financial information requires hiring a forensic accountant and/or technology expert
  • International assets requires retaining legal counsel in other countries.

Our Las Vegas divorce attorneys will speak with you directly regarding a consultation. Call our office at 702-222-4021 to speak with one of them and see if what we offer is right for you.

What is Parental Alienation in a Las Vegas Divorce?

Parental Alienation Las Vegas divorceChildren of divorcing parents are affected by the divorce process. The ages of the children, and the more involved the children are in their parents disagreements, the more they feel the effects. What makes it even harder on children is parental alienation in a Las Vegas divorce.

In a general sense, parental alienation is when one parent actively tries to convince their children that their other parent is “the bad one”. Though it is common for those parents going through a divorce to want everyone to be “on their side”, this makes children feel worse. Divorcing parents should never engage in poor parenting at the expense of their children. It also almost always backfires over time.

Stop Parental Alienation Before it Goes Too Far

Parental alienation causes, at least temporarily, children to turn away from one parent, because of the actions and/or words of their other parent. If you and your children are victims of parental alienation you should have a consultation with an experienced divorce lawyer in Las Vegas.

Parental Alienation Does Not Discriminate

Parental alienation can occur in families of all varieties. Regardless of the living arrangements, one parent can be detrimental to the relationship of the other parent and their children. Parental alienation does not discriminate. Mothers can be targets just as well as fathers. The time share plays no role in parental alienation occurring. Though obviously the more children are exposed to negative comments, the more affect those comments have on them.

The parental alienation does not always begin at the onset of divorce or separation. It often starts beforehand and can be either obvious or subtle. But it always results in targeting the other parent despite how good their parenting skills may actually be. Parental alienation includes criticizing the other parent when they try to do anything and often negates any positive acts. The alienating parent manipulates situations, twist words, and causes confusion with their children.

Visitation Schedules Can Change

Eventually children, especially younger ones, can become exasperated. They start believing the alienating parent and pushing the other parent away. Once the separation occurs, the alienating parent will start making excuses for why the children don’t want the scheduled visits. So it then becomes more difficult for the alienated parent’s involvement in their children’s lives.

Parental Alienation Almost Always Backfires

Parental alienation almost always backfires when the children start thinking more for themselves. Children begin to see things in a different light and they form their own opinions. When the children come to realize that their other parent really isn’t what they were led to believe they end up resenting the parent that instigated the parental alienation.

Divorce already causes stress in the family unit. Complicated emotions only make things more difficult to express. When one parent makes it even harder it causes more difficulties and confusion. It is unfair of that parent to cause such distress in their children and only serves to be detrimental for all involved.

Family Therapists Can Help

Professional family counseling is beneficial whenever parental alienation occurs. In addition to seeking legal advice from a dedicated divorce attorney, it is vital to get family counseling as soon as possible. It is important not to accuse the other parent but rather to seek the help required to rectify the situation. Be aware of boundaries and respond to your children with love and kindness. It will help all involved if there is no provocation.

Contact a Las Vegas Child Custody Lawyer

We can help when you need assistance on any child custody issue including parental alienation. Contact a Las Vegas child custody attorney today.

What is Important for Your Health During a Divorce?

Las Vegas divorce your healthDivorce is a difficult process and effects parents and children alike. Understandably, many parents focus on their children during this time. Therefore, they often forget about their own health during divorce. This is not the best route to take because the stress level in those going through a divorce tends to run high. It is imperative that you take good care of yourself while going through a divorce. You cannot care for others, especially your children, if you are not taking good care of yourself. It is not selfish to take care of yourself. Instead, it shows intelligence and wisdom, as well as strong self-esteem. It displays the fact that you care about yourself enough to maintain healthy habits and do what is best for your body. Our divorce attorneys in Las Vegas recommend that divorcing spouses seek counseling, get exercise, and maintain proper nutrition.

Counseling Helps You and Your Children

Seeking counseling is a sign of strength and wisdom. It takes a strong person to realize when they are in need of help. Sometimes just speaking to a counselor to clear your thoughts on a temporary basis is enough. Other times there is a deeper more long-term need. We urge people to seek counseling to help process the stress of their divorce. Counseling will also help parents assist their children with the divorce process. Many counseling professionals specialize in the family. These counselors can provide benefits to you and your children.

Exercise Delivers Physical and Mental Health Benefits

Exercise is also vital in maintaining good health, especially during a divorce. If you exercised regularly before your divorce try to continue that schedule. If you do not exercise regularly – now is a good time to start. A physical checkup from a medical professional should be done prior to initiating any exercise regimen. Going to a gym is also a great way to see new faces, meet new people, and begin moving on with the rest of your life.

Exercise induces the release of endorphins, which allow the brain and body to better fight illness and maintain a stable mental health. Endorphins trigger a positive feeling in the body, thereby reducing stress and increasing relaxation. As well as endorphins, exercise also releases other hormones such as serotonin, dopamine, and adrenaline. These hormones work together to give the body a generally good and positive feeling even while combating stress. These elements combined will help you react positively and in an emotionally healthy manner throughout, and after, the divorce process. In essence, the release of these hormones gives the body a leading edge in the battle against stress.

Yoga is also a great way to relax the body and mind. Fitness and community centers often have yoga classes. No matter the source, exercise gives people more clarity of mind in general because they are feeling stronger physically. This always spills over to the mental state of a person.

Proper Nutrition is Essential to Good Health

Cultivating proper nutrition supports the body in continuing good health. It helps the body battle stresses of all types. The additional vitamins absorbed from proper nutrition allow the body to manage stress and fight illness. Do not neglect your diet at any time. Diet is not weight loss. It’s the quality and quantity of the food you eat. In other words, diet means eating healthy foods in regular patterns, especially breakfast. Starting your day off with a light healthy breakfast can set the tone for your body’s health for the entire day.

Children and Las Vegas Divorce

Children and Las Vegas divorceDivorces can take on a whole new perspective when children are involved. The goal of each divorcing parent must be to minimize the impact children during divorce. The best Las Vegas child custody attorneys know that studies show divorce is easier for children to recover from than a constant high conflict marriage, which causes more internal stress in the long run.

Divorcing Parents Must Consider Their Children First

It is vitally important for divorcing parents to consider the effect they are having on their children. Children need to know both parents love them. That means the parents must be conscious of their actions in front of their children. They must be more aware of their own emotions, so the children are not getting the brunt of the frustration parents feel toward each other. The last place the children should be is in the center of the conflict. Divorce is never a child’s fault. So and it’s the parents’ job to ensure each child knows this.

Never Use Children for Selfish Purposes

The last thing the top divorce attorneys in Las Vegas want to hear is that you plan on using your children as a bargaining chip. Child custody or support are never leverage over financial matters. Children are completely separate from marital finances and they should stay that way. Valid concerns and goals regarding child custody and child support are one thing. But remember that the family courts always consider what is in the best interest of the children. You should too.

Keep the Conflict Away From Children

The best way to protect children during a divorce is to keep the conflict away from them. Arguing and fighting in front of them can cause psychological harm. Parents need to keep this in consideration and ensure a safe and secure environment for their children. Open communication helps children better understand better what’s happening. This allows the children to ask questions, eliminate fears, and prepares them for the upcoming changes. Honest and open conversation always serves best. But there is no need going into all the details regarding any conflict between you and your spouse.

Preparing Children for Divorce Changes

Change is inevitable in a divorce. Giving children time to adjust to these changes helps them ease into it more confidently. Fear and insecurity run rampant in children’s minds as a natural process of child development. The changes that occur in a divorce can exacerbate the stress they may already feel. Giving them a few weeks’ notice will allow them to mentally prepare for the transitions. It will empower them to know where they will be living, and with whom. If they will be going back and forth between both parents in joint custody, it benefits them to know ahead of time. This is so they can prepare and also make plans with friends and schoolmates nearby.

Divorcing Parents Can Benefit from Education

Parents should look into educational opportunities and programs for themselves and for their children during and after Las Vegas divorce proceedings. These programs often help establish a stronger relationship between the children and their parents. Not only do these programs help improve the relationships between the parents and children, but they also help children to better cope with the transition and changes that inevitably follow a divorce.

Dealing with Divorce in Las Vegas

Dealing with divorce in Las VegasNo one expects their marriage to end, but as any divorce attorney in Las Vegas will tell you, statistics prove that by the 20 year mark of a marriage, approximately 48% end in divorce. This result is typically a combination of factors from both parties, not just one spouse. Additionally, divorce affects the emotions of both spouses and their children.

Emotional Factors of Divorce in Las Vegas

The emotions that rise up during a divorce are totally normal. Things may be proceeding relatively smoothly. But then one or both spouses may have a sudden onset of anger, anxiety, fear or grief. These emotions often catch you off guard. The good news is this is totally normal, and it eventually subsides. It is vital that you maintain a reasonably balanced approach to the divorce proceedings. You also need to be self-aware as to how the divorce process is affecting you.

When you are better to yourself, you handle the daily tasks regarding your Las Vegas divorce better. Seeking the advice of a family therapist is always a good idea. Taking care of yourself physically also better prepares your body for the stress of divorce proceedings. There is no substitute for regular exercise, a proper diet, and consistent sleep patterns. Decreasing alcohol intake, difficult as it may be, is also in your best interest.

Benefits to All Parties Involved

When both parties strive to treat each other with a certain amount of respect, this fosters a new beginning and resets the existing relationships. This is true for both spouses and especially true for any children involved. You and your spouse are divorcing. But your children will be a large part of both your lives forever. After your divorce, you both will be interacting with each other for custody exchanges when your children are young. There will be college graduations and weddings when they get older. It is common for the healing process to take time so don’t be in a rush.

Divorce does not necessarily have to be mean-spirited. With the help of one of our divorce attorneys, you and your spouse can go through the process amicably. If both parties agree to it, uncontested divorce and divorce mediation are available alternatives to long, stressful, and expensive litigation in court proceedings.

We Handle All Forms of Divorce Proceedings

A Las Vegas divorce mediation attorney provides numerous benefits to both spouses. First they are professionals with years of experience in divorce mediation. This means that they have worked with many types of divorce matters. But the separate themselves from the emotional issues. They also perform divorce mediation on a regular basis, whereas divorcing spouses are going through a unique experience. Their experience is to your advantage but only if you and your spouse are sincerely open to the divorce mediation process.

Las Vegas divorce attorneys Jennifer V. Abrams and Vincent Mayo are Board Certified as experts in divorce law by The State Bar of Nevada. They handle many forms of divorce proceedings and resolutions. Divorce proceeding types include contested divorce litigation, uncontested divorce, and divorce mediation. Divorce resolutions are accomplished by either negotiated settlement or litigation.

What Are Child Custody Factors in Nevada?

Child Custody Factors in NevadaThe child custody factors in Nevada are solely “what’s in the best interest of the children.” It is not what one parent prefers. If the parents cannot agree, then a family court judge will determine child custody. This is a complex and costly process.

A child custody expert may assist the judge with a report or testimony. Not all Nevada child custody experts are equal. So it’s important that your Las Vegas child custody attorneys be familiar with the expert. Equally important is the judge’s prior experience with the expert in past cases.

Judges Prefer Joint Custody

Mom does not get primary custody of the children just by asking for it. The Nevada family courts prefer joint custody. That is, the courts wants both parents to be equally involved in their children’s lives. If one parent believes they should have primary custody, they must prove to the court that the other is unfit or unable. Again the proof must focus on the best interest of the children. This may not agree with the parent seeking primary custody.

Listing of Child Custody Factors in Nevada

In some instances there can be apparent child custody factors. In others, the factors are not as clear. Most importantly, the courts are flexible with co-parenting plans because they want both parents to have equal time with their children. Below is a list of some common factors in Nevada.

  • One parent travels a lot for work, therefore joint custody it is not practical.
  • The parents no longer live close to each other so travel time for the children is too long.
  • One parent has always been the primary caretaker and the other parent has been absent from the children’s lives.
  • One parent has a drug or alcohol addiction.
  • A parent suffers from a medically confirmed mental illness.
  • One parent is incarcerated. This is especially true if it’s due to any form of domestic violence, child abuse, or violating court orders for child custody.

Our divorce attorneys in Las Vegas have years of experience in all the child custody factors in Nevada. They are available to help you. Please call us at 702-222-4021 for a consultation.

Las Vegas Attorney Jennifer V. Abrams Admitted to the Exclusive AAML

Las Vegas Divorce Attorney Jennifer AbramsProminent Las Vegas divorce attorney Jennifer V. Abrams has been admitted to the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML). Ms. Abrams is one of only seventeen attorneys in Nevada who is a member of this prestigious organization. The group’s members are the leading practitioners of family law in the United States.

The AAML is a national organization with a founding in 1962. Their goal is to “promote professionalism and excellence in the practice of family law.”

The Academy Fellows are negotiators and litigators who represent individuals in all facets of family law with a high skill set. These areas include divorce, annulment, prenuptial agreements, postnuptial agreements, marital settlement agreements, child custody and visitation, business valuations, property valuations and division, alimony, child support and other family law issues.

About Attorney Jennifer Abrams

Attorney Abrams is certified by the State Bar of Nevada as a Nevada Family Law Specialist. The Nevada Family Court Judges and Las Vegas Family Law Attorneys have previously elected her to the Executive Council of the State Bar of Nevada, Family Law Section. Recently she was honored by the Justices of the Supreme Court of Nevada for her work on revising the procedures for NRCP 16.1, 16.2, 16.205 and the Financial Disclosure Forms. Family law attorneys statewide use these procedures and forms in every Nevada divorce case.

The AAML Selection Process

Each Academy Fellow endures a rigorous application process and written examination administered by the AAML’s Board of Examiners. Among other stringent requirements, each applicant must demonstrate:

  • Substantial involvement in matrimonial law practice
  • Improving the practice and elevate the standards of matrimonial law.
  • As one who practices with honesty, integrity, and professionalism.
  • Must have previously, or currently serve, on a judicially appointed statewide committee, task force, commission and the like, related to the subject of matrimonial law.
  • Have substantial trial experience as lead counsel including trial of custody matters, child support, division of property, alimony or spousal support.
  • Be a professor or instructor of law school courses in the area of matrimonial law.
  • Be an author of a major treatise on marital law.
  • Pass a national exam administered by the AAML’s Board of Examiners.

Comedian Chris Rock Files for Divorce

Chris Rock files for divorceJust after the past Christmas Holiday comedian Chris Rock quietly filed for divorce in New Jersey from his wife of almost 19 years, Malaak Compton-Rock. Of course quietly is a relative term when it’s a world-famous celebrity. The comedian asked for privacy during this difficult time. And most of the press so far seems to have honored his wishes. A quick Google search of “Chris Rock divorce” yields little new coverage since the initial divorce filing.

Do Celebrities Deserve Selective Divorce Privacy?

It depends on the circumstances. For example, there is good reason to inform the public if there are allegations of celebrity involvement in criminal activity. Even if the celebrity would prefer to keep the details private. But when the issues at hand are the details of the breakup of a family, the public benefit is negligible. This is especially true when there are minor children involved as there are in Chris Rock’s divorce case.

Las Vegas divorce attorneys that routinely handle high-asset divorce cases understand the privacy requirements of their clients. This is whether the client is a celebrity or not. Contested divorce cases, especially those involving celebrities, often contain salacious details. Whether real or imagined, they make great fodder for the tabloid press. But except for the financial gains for the media, do any of us really benefit from this information? Our opinion is it does not.

Who Really Benefits?

Revealing divorce details does little to benefit us personally or society as a whole. Regardless of the amount of personal information on the web, some things are still no one else’s business. Moreover, spouses often distort their versions of marital strife because of the emotions that go with divorce proceedings. Often these feelings show themselves during court hearings or in court filings.

Another significant privacy factor of divorce cases involves the financial affairs of the parties involved. Regardless of any celebrity status or not, no one wants their finances available for the prying eyes of total strangers. The same goes for nosy neighbors, employers, business associates and competitors.

When divorce information is made public, something said “in the heat of the moment” will be forever available on-line. This can often inhibit post-divorce civility. More importantly, it can also interfere with the co-parenting of minor children. Since we only practice divorce law in Las Vegas, we’re not sure if every state provides for protecting divorce privacy. So you should check your local laws if do don’t live in Nevada.

We often work with clients, celebrity and non-celebrity alike, who are concerned about their Las Vegas divorce assets and debts. Our expert divorce attorneys can put your mind at ease. They know how to protect what you have and get every dollar you deserve in divorce cases.

Las Vegas Divorce Attorney Vincent Mayo Attains National Board Certification

NBTA Divorce Attorneys in Las Vegas Las Vegas Divorce Attorney Vincent Mayo has successfully achieved National Board Certification as a Family Law expert from the National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA). Attorney Mayo is also Board Certified by the State Bar of Nevada. Therefore, he has earned board certification on both a state and national level.

Accredited organizations only board certify approximately three percent of American lawyers. Moreover, less than one percent of Nevada attorneys are Board Certified though the State Bar of Nevada. National Board Certification is one of the highest, most stringent, and most reliable honors an attorney can achieve. The NBTA, and all board certified attorneys, have a commitment to safeguarding the public’s ability to choose a highly qualified attorney. Therefore, Mr. Mayo is a member of a select group who has proven his extreme competence in divorce law.

NBTA Divorce Attorneys in Las Vegas

Attorney Mayo is one of only seventeen Las Vegas divorce attorneys to receive NBTA board certification. He has also successfully completed the ABA’s Family Law Trial Advocacy Institute program. This program accepts only 50 applications nationally each year. Vincent has also published numerous articles on various important family law issues.

About the NBTA Process

The NBTA believes that clients benefit from an objective set of standards which prove an attorney’s expertise. So a NBTA certified attorney has demonstrated skill and expertise in a specific law practice area. They have proven this through rigorous examination and testing. The elaborate screening and application that all NBTA board certified attorneys must complete includes the following:

  • Demonstrate substantial trial experience
  • Submit judicial and peer references to attest to their competency
  • Attend continuing legal education courses
  • Submit legal articles
  • Pass an NBTA exam
  • Prove good standing in local and state bar organizations