Belleville and Edwardsville Divorce Law Blog

Missouri women who are considering filing for a divorce should first obtain several documents that will help them get a better picture of what their financial futures will be like. These documents include tax returns for the past three years, a net worth statement and a comprehensive lifestyle analysis. Women who are considering divorce should not wait until it is nearly time to file before gathering these documents as it may take time to get everything together. After all, women are often left in the dark by their husbands when it comes to financial issues such as investments and assets.

Tax returns are likely the most vital source of information when someone needs to get a picture of a family's financial situation. Tax returns for the most recent three years should be obtained either through the family's tax preparer or an IRS Form 4506. A woman who is considering filing for a divorce should also obtain the documents used to prepare the tax returns, including 1099 and W-2 forms.

Fathers in Missouri and throughout the country have an opportunity to win custody of their children. Part of winning custody is making a good impression in the courtroom. Therefore, it is important to dress appropriately and avoid any outbursts toward the judge or anyone else who is taking part in a hearing. Another key step for a parent in the quest to obtain custody is showcasing a relationship with the child.

Ideally, a father will show proof that he has interacted with the child and has helped to meet a son or daughter's financial needs. However, other parties may have a say in how a custody order is put together. For instance, the child's mother may express a preference to not share custody, and the child may also express a desire to be with his or her mother.

Missouri residents may be able to have a child custody order modified if events warrant a change being made. Generally speaking, a change will be made if a parent is putting the child's safety in danger. The same could be true if the child doesn't want to spend time with the parent or if a parent is ignoring the terms of the order. If a parent relocates or dies, it may also be necessary to make changes to a child custody arrangement.

If there is reason to believe that a child is in danger, a court will have to determine if the danger is immediate. A court will also likely want to determine if the child is in danger of abuse or if another member of the household is the direct target. If a parent relocates, a judge will likely want to know why the move is taking place and if it is still possible to operate under the terms of the current agreement.

Noncustodial parents in Missouri are generally obligated to provide support for their children. However, this may become difficult for those who don't have the means to do so financially. The first step a parent should take is to contact the Child Support Enforcement Office in the appropriate state. This will alert the office to the fact that an individual's circumstances may have changed. In some cases, this may allow a parent to have a support order modified.

There are several ways in which a parent's circumstances could have changed. For instance, they might have experienced a loss in income or a medical issue. In some cases, a child may become more expensive to raise as they get older. It is important for parents to go to court or through other formal channels in an effort to resolve a problem paying child support.