The Constructive Divorce Guidebook

Since its first publication in 1982, The Divorce Handbook has sold over 200,000 copies. In this new and fully revised edition, specialist in family law James T. Friedman covers, in an easy-to-use question-and-answer format, all the issues involved in negotiating a separation and divorce--how to choose a lawyer; how to arrange child custody, support, and visitation; how to prevent financial hide-and-seek; what to expect of the divorce proceedings themselves; and what to do if the divorce goes to trial. This revised edition addresses current trends in such areas as divorce law, alimony, property division, shared parenting, and visitation; it includes an expanded section of checklists, schedules, and guides for reconciliation and child support, as well as attorney retainer agreements, asset/liability worksheets, and more. The American Bar Association has called The Divorce Handbook "a welcome breath of fresh air in an otherwise stifling atmosphere created by a virtual avalanche of books about divorce." The revised edition of The Divorce Handbook is your best guide through the traumatic and painful business of divorce, and will be an essential resource for years to come.

This completely revised and updated fifth edition of the award-winning Divorce with Decency includes the most current research, statistics, and insights on the effects of divorce on spouses, their children, and society over­all. Written by a prominent divorce lawyer with four decades of experience, it is the most comprehensive treatment of the legal, emotion­al, economic, psychological, and social aspects of romantic relationships, marriage and divorce available anywhere in a single volume. Initial sections look at the dynamics of divorce: the causal factors, the common “stages” from initial separation onward, and the complications surrounding each stage for older and younger couples and children. Important information on spouse abuse is also included. The book dis­cusses key criteria in selecting an attorney and gives expert advice on directing and monitoring the course of a case efficiently and economical­ly. Detailed background on critical legal issues is given, followed by case histories highlighting key points of divorce law. Extensive new sec­tions have been added to this edition which provide key tips on preserving, improving, and possibly “saving” marriages. Key chapters focus on post-divorce issues of single parenthood and new relationships; as well as the rapidly changing nature of love, romance, “digital dating,” and other topics in this modern New Millennium. Informative yet highly readable (and occasionally amusing), Divorce with Decency has proven to be indispensable to anyone involved in a divorce, whether directly or indirectly.

The inside scoop... for when you want more than the official line! Sad. Mad. Scared. Stressed. Distraught. Distracted. Overwhelmed. Divorce dredges up so many emotions and entails so many financial and legal issues, it's difficult to stay rational and keep your life on track. This savvy, updated guide empowers you to take constructive steps toward a better future. It leads you through preparing for divorce, the process, legal issues, coping, sticky situations, and post-divorce financial and health-care issues. It tells you things attorneys and other advisors may not, and gives unbiased recommendations for negotiating the tricky issues of divorce while keeping your sanity. * Vital Information to help you protect your interests in a divorce or in dealings with your future ex, attorneys, financial advisors, and more. * Insider Secrets for moving from "I do" to "I don't" with harmony, intelligence, and grace. * Money-Saving Techniques to reduce legal fees and court costs. * Time-Saving Tips to help you resolve your divorce without going to court. * The Scoop on the Latest Trends and precedents in spousal and child support, pre-nups, and more to help you set realistic expectations. * Handy Checklists to help you do everything from setting priorities to telling the children to dividing property

"I wrote this to help you survive the dissolution of your marriage without the financial ruin most people face," said Judge Stewart. His wise guidance shows readers how to: establish realistic expectations about divorce; find and hire a good attorney; control their attorney's actions and fees; use mediation and/or arbitration effectively; handle child and spousal support; protect children during the difficult times.