The Marks Law Firm Blog and New Updates
FAQ Initial Consultation Edition
Prior to scheduling an initial consultation, you may have several questions regarding the legal process. Below are examples of questions we have received from potential clients who have been interested in coming in for an initial consultation. Corresponding answers are included as well.
It is our Mission: “To Honor God and Faithfully Represent our Clients with Great Leadership, Attitude, Excellence and Teamwork.”
Q: How many years of experience do each of the attorneys have?
A: To view specific levels of experience for each attorney, visit their respective profiles here.
Q: Are there different hourly rates for each attorney at The Marks Law Firm, P.A.?
A: Yes, if you are interested in learning more about each attorney’s hourly rate, please contact us at 407-872-3161.
Q: Do I need to submit a deposit prior to coming in for an initial consultation?
A: Yes, to reserve your initial consultation appointment time, you may call our office.
Q: How do I move forward with booking an initial consultation at The Marks Law Firm, P.A.?
A: If you are interested in scheduling an initial consultation with one of our experienced family law attorneys, you may fill out our contact form or do so over the phone.
Q: Is it possible to hold an initial consultation with an attorney over the phone or via Skype?
A: Yes, if you would prefer to attend an initial consultation over the phone or via Skype, please let us know when scheduling your appointment and we will do our best to accommodate your request.
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Four Reasons to Thank Your Stepdad This Father’s Day
We live in a time where many families include stepparents, so it is important that we honor them on holidays as well. This Father’s Day let’s take a moment to celebrate and show gratitude to the father figures in our lives.
Stepfathers especially deserve recognition for their role in the lives of children. To our stepdads, on Father’s Day and every day, we thank you for…
Being patient: Children of divorce may be hesitant to accept new relationships. Even in situations where both parents have moved on, it may take several months for children to adjust to their new normal.
Showing up: While many divorce cases involve two co-parents who are committed to playing an active role in the lives of their children, life gets in the way. Often, stepfathers help with homework, transportation, meals, etc. The little things leave a lasting impact and are worthy of appreciation.
Respecting boundaries: Perhaps the children’s father is involved in their daily lives. Knowing when to step in and when to allow co-parents to make decisions regarding the children’s best interest requires humility.
Creating new traditions: At first, adapting to new living arrangements and blending families may not be easy. However, with change comes the opportunity to start fresh.
Visit our Pinterest page for more on the impact of stepparents, co-parenting strategies, transitioning to a blended family, etc.
Happy Father’s Day to all dads! YOU are important!
Image by Free-Photos from Pixabay
Are You Interested in Adoption?
Whether you are planning to start a family through adoption or would like to give your child and/or children a sibling, we encourage you to be mindful of the unique journey ahead. There are many moving parts in the adoption process. Before you initiate adoption, it is important to consider the potential steps involved.
Are you unsure of where to begin?
Be bold in prayer: Our God is faithful and knows the desires of our hearts. During your alone time with Him, share your deepest fears, ask for patience and guidance while you are vulnerable, and don’t be afraid to voice your greatest wishes for your family. It is also important to pray for any others who are a part of the adoption equation. Birth parents and their families are experiencing incredible sacrifice. Pray for peace of mind and clarity while they enter a life changing decision.
Seek support: Sometimes when we make such life altering decisions, it can be difficult to lean on others. Perhaps you don’t want to burden your loved ones with the what-ifs. However, you should not hesitate to allow those closest to you to support your growing family. Also, choosing adoption connects parents and families with others who are experiencing similar circumstances. If you would rather confide in an objective third party, consider speaking with a mental health professional.
Do your research: Depending on your area, there may be certain guidelines and timetables associated with the adoption process. Look into possible requirements, including proof of residency, family history documents, health records, etc. You might want to compile a notebook or digital file of any necessary paperwork or related materials.
Explore different options: Have you considered fostering a child as part of your adoption journey? There are many children in need of a loving home within our communities.
Contact an attorney: Many family law attorneys handle adoption cases. Once you have made the decision to adopt, it is important to familiarize yourself with the legal aspects involved. Schedule a consultation with an attorney to discuss the first steps toward growing your family.
Call us today to speak with one of our Central Florida Family Law Attorneys regarding adoption.
Three Ways to Support Single Moms This Mother’s Day
Mother’s Day is around the corner. On this day, many families are intentional about catering to the matriarch of their home. What about single mothers? In our society today, many retailers and companies feature ideal gift ideas for mom. While many of those ideas are centered around two parent households, it is important to consider the needs and wants of single mothers as well.
Is there a single mom in your life who would benefit from an act of kindness? Are you unsure of what she might want or need? Do you want to show her support? Even small gestures can make a difference this Mother’s Day.
- Pray for her. Being a single parent can be challenging and lonely, especially for new moms. Offer empathy and pray for her patience as she experiences parenthood without a partner. Ask her if she has any specific prayer requests.
- Invite her to celebrate with you. If you are planning to spend the day with your family, suggest she tag along. Open your home to her if you are staying in. This can be especially welcoming for single mothers who are unable to share the day with their children due to timesharing arrangements.
- Prepare a meal for her family. Perhaps she is able to celebrate with her children. As the end of the school year approaches, she may be putting their needs above her own wishes for the holiday. Find an easy recipe that she might enjoy. Surprise her with it and allow her to have one less task on her to do list.
If you or someone you know is a single mother, who is navigating the challenges of parenthood alone, we invite you to visit our Therapists Corner column for more insight.
How to Maintain a Family Unit After Your Divorce
With emotions at an all time high, going through a divorce may leave you feeling defeated. The future you envisioned for your children no longer lines up with your current circumstances. Timesharing schedules (formerly known as custody arrangements) and parenting plans are part of your new reality. It may be difficult to move forward at first, but there are certain measures you can try that may help you and your former spouse create a new normal for your family and children. We encourage you to keep an open mind and make an effort to avoid allowing your judgment to be clouded by fear or assumptions.
In our society today, there are many types of families. Despite your marriage ending, it is possible for your family to keep going.
Determine what works best for you: Although you may have witnessed someone close to you experience divorce, it is important to realize that no two cases are resolved in the same way. Each case is unique.
Recognize the needs of your children: Getting caught up in new responsibilities and expenses can be overwhelming. Some changes may be more subtle than others. To help maintain stability for your children, prioritize their needs. Doing so, especially in the beginning of your family’s transition will help you and your former spouse work toward a common goal as co-parents. Separate any conflict you might experience due to the divorce from the other parent’s ability and opportunity to continue to be present in the lives of your children. Put your children first, and when appropriate, come together as a team.
Be patient: Trust the journey of this experience. Know that over time, the change will be easier to manage. Grief is part of the process as you come to terms with your divorce. Keep in mind, everyone expresses grief in their own way. Talk to your children and develop open communication so that they feel comfortable letting you know when they are struggling.
Remember, you do not have to walk through this season of your life alone. For those who are in need of a family counseling referral, we may be able to connect you with an experienced mental health professional.
Our Orlando Divorce Attorneys are able guides and remain committed to settling differences in a manner that reflects the best interest of the family as a whole, especially when there are children involved. Want to schedule a consultation? Call our office today.
Four Steps to Take When Considering a Divorce
Whether you’ve reached a breaking point in your relationship or your marriage has been in a state beyond repair for a while, divorce should not be approached lightly. There are many factors that influence settlements and final judgments. Our Central Florida Family Law Attorneys are solution-oriented and committed to demonstrating empathy for the client throughout the process of dissolution of marriage.
Before you begin the legal process to end your marriage you may want to take the following steps:
1. Consider Counseling: Sometimes our efforts to communicate with each other lead to misunderstandings or unintentional conflict. Working with an objective mental health professional may help you and your spouse develop strategies to move forward and be open about expectations regarding the future of your relationship. Don’t know where to start? Call us for a referral.
2. Evaluate Your Finances: Many couples underestimate the impact a divorce has on their finances. If you and your spouse cover expenses on a shared income, it is important to realize that ending your relationship could lead to necessary lifestyle changes in order to maintain financial stability. Attorney’s fees and other costs associated with your separation could affect your finances as well.
3. Maintain a Record of Important Documents: Any materials that may be relevant to your case should be easily accessible. Examples include: bank statements, credit card statements and balances, car loans and balances, pay stubs, mortgage statements, and business records, if applicable. Being organized will help avoid potential delays in divorce proceedings.
4. Schedule a Consultation with an Attorney: Once you are confident in your decision to move forward with a divorce, you may want to research Family Law Attorneys in your area. An ideal attorney/client relationship consists of open communication, honesty, clear and realistic expectations, etc. Legal advocates understand that no case is identical to another and recognize the importance of compassion and serving as a guide to clients in their time of need.
Every client of The Marks Law Firm is considered a pivotal part of the legal Team on their case. Does this resonate with you? Call our office to schedule a consultation today.
*Photo Credit: rawpixel via Unsplash
Three Ways to Invest in Your Marriage in 2019
January is recognized as the top month for divorce filings across the country. Once the holidays are over, spouses no longer feel pressure or obligation to keep up appearances regarding their marriage. Perhaps you are struggling in your relationship. The new year brings an opportunity to embrace change and recognize areas in our lives where improvement may be necessary.
In order to maintain healthy relationships, we must be willing to treat them as investments. While the fruits of your labor may not lead to immediate results, we encourage you to be patient and build on the foundation of your marriage.
- Communicate: When we are angry, it can be easy to shut down and give our partner the cold shoulder. Eventually, our emotions will build up and a minor issue may grow into something more significant. Although your intentions to work through your feelings alone were meant to avoid conflict, it is important to explore solutions as a team. Creating an open dialogue allows each of you to be upfront with your feelings, hopes, and goals.
- Be Intentional: Life is incredibly fast paced. With or without children, prioritizing marriage can be difficult. Don’t underestimate the impact of a well-planned schedule. Take advantage of alone time together when it is available. Social media fills our minds with the idea that happy couples thrive off of grand gestures and lavish vacations. Instead of being motivated by comparison, cater your plans to activities that fit your lifestyle. Pinterest, for example, offers many attainable options that may be beneficial for you and your spouse.
- Meet Each Other with Grace: Every relationship experiences conflict. It is imperative to be compassionate with one another despite disagreements, or other causes of marital tension. Compromise is essential for couples who are committed to moving forward and adopting solution-oriented mindsets. Often, the moments where it is the hardest to remain clear headed and kind are when our partner needs grace the most. By making an effort to see our spouse in the same way that God does, we allow ourselves to let go of unrealistic expectations, and invite both forgiveness and perspective to soften our hearts.
To speak to one of our Central Florida Family Law Attorneys, contact our office today.
*Photo Credit: Tú Anh via Pixabay
How to Prioritize Your Marriage Through the Holiday Season
With sleigh bells ringing and children singing, your marriage may be an afterthought as the holidays are now in full swing. Although schedules may be filled with baking, shopping, party planning, volunteering, etc. we encourage you to pour into your relationship with your spouse. Families with children will especially benefit from a loving and stable environment during this time of year. After all, the moments we share as children create memories and may even lead to cherished traditions.
If you are left feeling overwhelmed towards the end of the year, it might be necessary to reevaluate your priorities.
Have uninterrupted alone time as much as possible: For some couples, the opportunity to connect one on one with your spouse may seem unrealistic. Depending on the specifics of your routine, try to find a time to come together away from your children on a weekly basis.
Consider the wants and needs of your spouse: While most children are eager to supply their parents with Christmas wish lists, it is also imperative to reflect on the desires and expectations of our partner. Perhaps he or she has briefly mentioned a special holiday activity for the two of you to participate in. Don’t overlook those who are children at heart. There is joy to be found in this season at any age.
Be upfront with your feelings: In addition to serving our spouse, the foundation of successful relationships includes honesty. Difficult conversations are often shied away from this time of year. However, your marriage deserves two people who are willing to trust each other and meet one another with grace.
Recognize areas that need improvement: Society has glorified procrastination in a sense, with the idea that goals and changes should be saved for the new year ahead. Instead of allowing yourself to wait, look at parts of your marriage that could use extra attention. By making an effort to pour into your relationship, you are showing your spouse just how much you value your life together.
To schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys, call our Orlando office today.
Five Steps to Navigating the Holidays After a Divorce
The holiday season is often filled with joy, quality time with family, friends and loved ones, and celebrating our Savior. However, for families who are recovering from a divorce, the holidays can also be met with stress, anxiety, and even sadness. Traditions may come to an end. Parenting Plans and Timesharing agreements impact co-parents, children and members of extended family.
Although it may seem overwhelmingly difficult to even consider how you will survive the holidays after a divorce, we encourage you to have faith and be patient with yourself, the situation and your former spouse.
- Maintain Communication: Perhaps you are struggling to remain on speaking terms with your former spouse, due to differences of opinion, misunderstandings, or conflict in general. Look into various options to remain connected when necessary. There are many apps and technology methods available to assist co-parents. In situations where young children are involved, it is imperative for everyone to be on the same page.
- Be Mindful of Spending: It is no secret that the costs associated with divorce may impact savings, retirement plans, and other assets. While the holidays cause businesses to target consumers with sales and new product releases, implementing a budget will help you keep track of expenses and lessen your financial burden. Try to focus on the needs of your family versus the wants you can do without.
- Manage Expectations: This is especially important for families with children. A year ago, you may not have anticipated the end of your marriage. Once you are able to accept your new reality, coping should come more naturally. Remain upfront with your children about how they will be celebrating each holiday and assure them that your family is still a priority.
- Plan Ahead: With the contents of your parenting plan and specifics of your timesharing schedule, both you and your former spouse have the opportunity to make necessary arrangements to make the most of the holidays. Consider how your personal and professional commitments may be affected.
- Practice Self Care: Going through a divorce is an emotional journey. Let yourself prioritize your own best interests as well as your children’s. Taking care of ourselves is not selfish, doing so allows us to better serve others.
If you are unsure about how to approach the upcoming holiday season with your former spouse, call us to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced Orlando Family Law Attorneys.
Three Ways Counseling Can Positively Impact Your Marriage
Often, couples are led to believe counseling should only be entered in a final effort to save their marriage. While speaking with a mental health professional may seem intimidating at first, we encourage our clients to seek help, especially if reconciliation is possible. Recently, several high-profile couples have come forward to credit counseling as a contributing factor of the success of their marriages.
Have you considered the potential benefits of working with a therapist?
- Creating Paths to Open and Honest Communication
Work schedules, raising children, and social activities may mean your marriage takes a backseat unintentionally. Several days could come and go without having an uninterrupted conversation with your spouse. A mental health professional recognizes the importance of communication and will help you both express yourselves and own your feelings.
- Understanding How Your Spouse’s Love Language Compliments Your Own
Are you familiar with the five love languages? For spouses, it is important to consider and honor each other’s language. Author Gary Chapman describes the five love languages as follows:
- Words of Affirmation
- Acts of Service
- Receiving Gifts
- Quality Time
- Physical Touch
The variety of ways we give love may not match how our partner best receives it. For example, you might assume that your spouse doesn’t appreciate gift giving, but as it turns out, he or she values quality time together or words of affirmation over tangible items. Couples who love each other well, should be aware of ways their love languages influence the relationship.
- Learning Tools for Conflict Resolution
Contrary to popular belief, even happy couples experience conflict. One key difference between healthy marriages and others, relates to how they approach difficult situations. No two marriages are exactly alike, and it is imperative to identify your specific needs and shortcomings regarding conflict resolution.
If you are struggling with the idea of attempting counseling or gaining a therapist’s perspective in general, we invite you to visit our Therapists Corner Column and connect with one of our legal professionals by scheduling a consultation.
