Entries by Christen Ritchey

Is There an Advantage to Filing for Divorce First?

When a marriage is coming to an end, one of the questions we often hear is: “Does it matter who files for divorce first?” The answer is not always straightforward. Filing first does not automatically give one spouse a legal advantage or guarantee a more favorable outcome. However, there are several practical and strategic considerations […]

Hot Divorcée Summer: Is Divorce Getting a New Reputation?

If you have been on social media lately, you may have noticed a new phrase making its way across your feed: “Hot Divorcée Summer.” The trend has been gaining attention as a playful way of reframing life after divorce. Instead of viewing divorce solely as an ending, the trend focuses on confidence, independence, self-discovery, and […]

The Do’s and Don’ts of Co-Parenting After Divorce in Florida

Successful co-parenting after a Florida divorce comes down to three things: treating the parenting plan as a legal document, keeping communication short and factual, and keeping the kids out of the middle. Key Takeaways: A Florida parenting plan is a court order, and consistent compliance matters more than getting every small thing perfect. Short, written […]

Protecting Your Children During a Domestic Violence Divorce in Boca Raton

When a marriage ends in the context of domestic violence, the concerns are never just about the adults involved. Children feel the impact of domestic violence in ways that are both immediate and long-lasting, and protecting them through the divorce process, and beyond, requires careful legal planning, clear communication, and the right support system. For […]

How Domestic Violence Changes the Divorce Process in Florida

Divorce is never simple, but when domestic violence is part of the picture, the legal and emotional complexity increases significantly. From determining whether mediation is appropriate to establishing safe time-sharing arrangements for children, domestic violence touches nearly every aspect of a Florida divorce. Understanding how it affects the process can help victims make informed decisions, […]

The Emotional and Financial Benefits of Choosing Collaborative Divorce in Boca Raton

Divorce is rarely easy, but the process you choose can have a profound impact on your finances, your emotional well-being, and your family’s future. Collaborative divorce offers a fundamentally different experience from courtroom litigation, one built around privacy, efficiency, and mutual respect. For families in Boca Raton and throughout South Florida, understanding these benefits can […]

What Is Collaborative Divorce and How Does It Work in Florida?

When most people think about divorce, they picture courtrooms, contested hearings, and drawn-out legal battles. But there is another path, one designed to protect families from the financial and emotional toll of litigation. Collaborative divorce is a structured process that keeps your case out of court entirely, giving you and your spouse the tools and […]

Child Custody Modifications in Florida: A Parent’s Practical Guide

Florida allows parents to modify an existing custody or parenting plan when a substantial, material, and unanticipated change in circumstances has occurred and the modification serves the child’s best interests. Key Takeaways: Florida courts require proof of a substantial, material, and unanticipated change in circumstances before modifying any existing parenting plan or time-sharing order. Common […]

Divorce Mediation vs. Litigation in Florida: Which Path Is Right for You?

When a marriage ends, the legal process that follows can look very different depending on the path you choose. In Florida, divorcing couples generally have several options for resolving their case, with mediation, collaborative divorce, and litigation being the most common. Each approach carries distinct advantages and drawbacks when it comes to cost, timeline, control […]