We are over four months into the COVID-19 pandemic. It is impacting families in many ways. Some are affected more than others, but everyone is affected in some way. In the family law context, I see a variety of different issues that are coming up related to these new times that we find ourselves in. Some families need to modify their timeshare arrangement with their children and establish new parenting agreements. Other families need to reevaluate existing child or spousal support orders. Other families are finding that they need to separate and move forward with divorce.
Because of the stay at home orders and the high societal level of stress and anxiety, I am seeing an uptick in new divorce case filings. Due to changes in employment, business operations, and schooling, there is an increase in modifications for families that have already divorced but need to make adjustments. I am hearing from many prior clients seeking assistance to modify some aspect of their divorce agreement.
The Sacramento County court system was closed for over six weeks. The Family Law Court reopened in a limited capacity. The court is extremely backlogged, which means the public is not able to get assistance from the court in a timely manner. Collaborative Divorce provides families with an opportunity to get immediate guidance and resolution to problems and issues in real time. Families cannot wait months on end to solve financial and childcare dilemmas. We address those issues immediately through the Collaborative Divorce Process.
Collaborative Divorce gives families the opportunity to make their own decisions in a confidential and supportive environment. A team of Collaborative Divorce professionals support and guide the parties. The parties control the decision-making process and work at a speed and pace that fits their needs. All the different aspects of a divorce can be addressed through Collaborative Divorce, including financial, emotional, children’s welfare, business ownership, or any other concerns specific to a family.
Articles and resources from Julia Perkovich on collaborative divorce, mediation, and family law in Sacramento.