Untying the Knots

What's a custody evaluation and is it right for my case? 1:40 Do moms always win custody? - 4:02 How does a parent's mental illness affect child custody? - 7:10 I live in a different county than my ex. Will our kids have to go to a new school? - 9:22 Can I include specific rules in our custody arrangement rules for our child I would like my ex to follow? - 10:55 -- If you would like to listen to this podcast but do not want to have a podcast about this topic on your device, search KNOT FAMILY MYSTERY and you will find a podcast in the true crime category with artwork similar to this show. After about 30 seconds, the true crime intro to that show fades away and this exact podcast will play. Anyone who happens to see your device will not have any idea what the subject matter of KNOT FAMILY MYSTERY is. -- We provide clients with rational, efficient, and effective guidance to resolve their legal disputes. We frequently meditate and reach agreement for our clients on any number of issues, including child custody, temporary and permanent support, post-divorce custody and support modifications and marital property division. We believe that people are more likely to abide by an agreement if they have a role in creating it. However, if litigation is necessary to protect your interests, our attorneys have over 40 years of combined courtroom experience and we are well prepared to stand up for you. If you are in Georgia and would like to talk about how we might be able to help you, please call us at 404-909-8300, or visit us online at smithfileslaw.com.

Will my kids be asked to testify in our divorce? - 1:40 What is a guardian ad litem? - 6:25 How should I interact with my child's guardian ad litem? - 10:29 Is it legal to travel with a child during a divorce? - 14:36 Can my kids and I stay on my ex's health insurance plan? - 16:21 -- If you would like to listen to this podcast but do not want to have a podcast about this topic on your device, search KNOT FAMILY MYSTERY and you will find a podcast in the true crime category with artwork similar to this show. After about 30 seconds, the true crime intro to that show fades away and this exact podcast will play. Anyone who happens to see your device will not have any idea what the subject matter of KNOT FAMILY MYSTERY is. -- We provide clients with rational, efficient, and effective guidance to resolve their legal disputes. We frequently meditate and reach agreement for our clients on any number of issues, including child custody, temporary and permanent support, post-divorce custody and support modifications and marital property division. We believe that people are more likely to abide by an agreement if they have a role in creating it. However, if litigation is necessary to protect your interests, our attorneys have over 40 years of combined courtroom experience and we are well prepared to stand up for you. If you are in Georgia and would like to talk about how we might be able to help you, please call us at 404-909-8300, or visit us online at smithfileslaw.com.

I had an affair. How does cheating affect a divorce case? - 1:40 Is it legal to use pictures and recordings I secretly took in our marital home? - 6:01 -- If you would like to listen to this podcast but do not want to have a podcast about this topic on your device, search KNOT FAMILY MYSTERY and you will find a podcast in the true crime category with artwork similar to this show. After about 30 seconds, the true crime intro to that show fades away and this exact podcast will play. Anyone who happens to see your device will not have any idea what the subject matter of KNOT FAMILY MYSTERY is. -- We provide clients with rational, efficient, and effective guidance to resolve their legal disputes. We frequently meditate and reach agreement for our clients on any number of issues, including child custody, temporary and permanent support, post-divorce custody and support modifications and marital property division. We believe that people are more likely to abide by an agreement if they have a role in creating it. However, if litigation is necessary to protect your interests, our attorneys have over 40 years of combined courtroom experience and we are well prepared to stand up for you. If you are in Georgia and would like to talk about how we might be able to help you, please call us at 404-909-8300, or visit us online at smithfileslaw.com.

We're divorcing, but I don't know the best way to tell the kids. Help? - 1:40 We're separating, but need to tell our kids. What's the right thing to say? - 4:10 What's the best way to tell our kids about a separation? - 7:04 What should we consider when telling kids about a separation? - 8:49 How will my kids react when I tell them about the divorce? - 16:16 -- If you would like to listen to this podcast but do not want to have a podcast about this topic on your device, search KNOT FAMILY MYSTERY and you will find a podcast in the true crime category with artwork similar to this show. After about 30 seconds, the true crime intro to that show fades away and this exact podcast will play. Anyone who happens to see your device will not have any idea what the subject matter of KNOT FAMILY MYSTERY is. -- We provide clients with rational, efficient, and effective guidance to resolve their legal disputes. We frequently meditate and reach agreement for our clients on any number of issues, including child custody, temporary and permanent support, post-divorce custody and support modifications and marital property division. We believe that people are more likely to abide by an agreement if they have a role in creating it. However, if litigation is necessary to protect your interests, our attorneys have over 40 years of combined courtroom experience and we are well prepared to stand up for you. If you are in Georgia and would like to talk about how we might be able to help you, please call us at 404-909-8300, or visit us online at smithfileslaw.com.

What are the warning signs a marriage is over? - 1:40 I want a divorce. What now? - 6:59 Is it really better to stay together for the kids? - 15:04 What are the top divorce dos and don'ts? - 22:07 How can I protect my family from an abusive ex? - 31:19 -- If you would like to listen to this podcast but do not want to have a podcast about this topic on your device, search KNOT FAMILY MYSTERY and you will find a podcast in the true crime category with artwork similar to this show. After about 30 seconds, the true crime intro to that show fades away and this exact podcast will play. Anyone who happens to see your device will not have any idea what the subject matter of KNOT FAMILY MYSTERY is. -- We provide clients with rational, efficient, and effective guidance to resolve their legal disputes. We frequently meditate and reach agreement for our clients on any number of issues, including child custody, temporary and permanent support, post-divorce custody and support modifications and marital property division. We believe that people are more likely to abide by an agreement if they have a role in creating it. However, if litigation is necessary to protect your interests, our attorneys have over 40 years of combined courtroom experience and we are well prepared to stand up for you. If you are in Georgia and would like to talk about how we might be able to help you, please call us at 404-909-8300, or visit us online at smithfileslaw.com.

Should I open a credit card in my name before filing for divorce? - 1:40 Why is my soon-to-be ex asking for so much in the divorce? - 2:50 Will my ex get to keep the engagement ring I bought? - 5:49 Will I have to split my family inheritance during a divorce? - 7:19 What's the best way to protect my assets during divorce? - 8:01 I'm the family breadwinner. How much will my alimony payments be? (9:10) -- If you would like to listen to this podcast but do not want to have a podcast about this topic on your device, search KNOT FAMILY MYSTERY and you will find a podcast in the true crime category with artwork similar to this show. After about 30 seconds, the true crime intro to that show fades away and this exact podcast will play. Anyone who happens to see your device will not have any idea what the subject matter of KNOT FAMILY MYSTERY is. -- We provide clients with rational, efficient, and effective guidance to resolve their legal disputes. We frequently meditate and reach agreement for our clients on any number of issues, including child custody, temporary and permanent support, post-divorce custody and support modifications and marital property division. We believe that people are more likely to abide by an agreement if they have a role in creating it. However, if litigation is necessary to protect your interests, our attorneys have over 40 years of combined courtroom experience and we are well prepared to stand up for you. If you are in Georgia and would like to talk about how we might be able to help you, please call us at 404-909-8300, or visit us online at smithfileslaw.com.

Are divorce proceedings different for LGBTQ+ marriages? - 2:01 My spouse gave birth to our child, but I never legally became the second parent. What custody rights do I have? - 2:14 My partner and I lived together before marriage. How will the court split our assets? - 3:39 My lawyer has no experience with LGTBQ+ divorce cases. Does this matter? - 4:55 My ex and I disagree on how to care for our trans child. What now? - 7:30 -- If you would like to listen to this podcast but do not want to have a podcast about this topic on your device, search KNOT FAMILY MYSTERY and you will find a podcast in the true crime category with artwork similar to this show. After about 30 seconds, the true crime intro to that show fades away and this exact podcast will play. Anyone who happens to see your device will not have any idea what the subject matter of KNOT FAMILY MYSTERY is. -- We provide clients with rational, efficient, and effective guidance to resolve their legal disputes. We frequently meditate and reach agreement for our clients on any number of issues, including child custody, temporary and permanent support, post-divorce custody and support modifications and marital property division. We believe that people are more likely to abide by an agreement if they have a role in creating it. However, if litigation is necessary to protect your interests, our attorneys have over 40 years of combined courtroom experience and we are well prepared to stand up for you. If you are in Georgia and would like to talk about how we might be able to help you, please call us at 404-909-8300, or visit us online at smithfileslaw.com.

Am I legally allowed to date before my divorce is final? - 1:40 Can I give my new partner gifts before I'm legally divorced? - 4:53 What's the best way to communicate with my soon-to-be ex? 6:46 Can I move out of our home after filing for divorce? - 12:41 Is it legal to evict my spouse from our house during a divorce? - 14:44 -- If you would like to listen to this podcast but do not want to have a podcast about this topic on your device, search KNOT FAMILY MYSTERY and you will find a podcast in the true crime category with artwork similar to this show. After about 30 seconds, the true crime intro to that show fades away and this exact podcast will play. Anyone who happens to see your device will not have any idea what the subject matter of KNOT FAMILY MYSTERY is. -- We provide clients with rational, efficient, and effective guidance to resolve their legal disputes. We frequently meditate and reach agreement for our clients on any number of issues, including child custody, temporary and permanent support, post-divorce custody and support modifications and marital property division. We believe that people are more likely to abide by an agreement if they have a role in creating it. However, if litigation is necessary to protect your interests, our attorneys have over 40 years of combined courtroom experience and we are well prepared to stand up for you. If you are in Georgia and would like to talk about how we might be able to help you, please call us at 404-909-8300, or visit us online at smithfileslaw.com.

How do I find the best divorce lawyer? - 1:40 What are the best questions to ask a new divorce lawyer? - 4:57 What should I expect from my divorce lawyer? How often should I expect updates from my attorney? What's the best way to get updates from my lawyer? - 9:10 Can I use our joint account to pay for divorce fees? - 11:01 Can I get my attorneys fees paid for by an ex? - 14:00 Can I get divorced without a lawyer? - 15:27 My divorce lawyer isn't doing their job. What now? - 16:49 -- If you would like to listen to this podcast but do not want to have a podcast about this topic on your device, search KNOT FAMILY MYSTERY and you will find a podcast in the true crime category with artwork similar to this show. After about 30 seconds, the true crime intro to that show fades away and this exact podcast will play. Anyone who happens to see your device will not have any idea what the subject matter of KNOT FAMILY MYSTERY is. -- We provide clients with rational, efficient, and effective guidance to resolve their legal disputes. We frequently meditate and reach agreement for our clients on any number of issues, including child custody, temporary and permanent support, post-divorce custody and support modifications and marital property division. We believe that people are more likely to abide by an agreement if they have a role in creating it. However, if litigation is necessary to protect your interests, our attorneys have over 40 years of combined courtroom experience and we are well prepared to stand up for you. If you are in Georgia and would like to talk about how we might be able to help you, please call us at 404-909-8300, or visit us online at smithfileslaw.com.

When will my divorce be finalized? 1:40 How can I get a fast divorce? - 17:31 What is the average cost of a divorce? - 18:43 How do I protect my right to privacy during a divorce? - 20:51 We moved to a new state, but I want a divorce. What now? - 24:19 My spouse won't agree to a divorce. What should I do now? - 24:49 -- If you would like to listen to this podcast but do NOT want to have a podcast about this topic on your device, search KNOT FAMILY MYSTERY and you will find a show in the true crime category with artwork similar to this. After about 30 seconds, the true crime intro to that show fades away and this exact podcast will play. Anyone who happens to see your device will not have any idea what the subject matter of KNOT FAMILY MYSTERY is. -- We provide clients with rational, efficient, and effective guidance to resolve their legal disputes. We frequently meditate and reach agreement for our clients on any number of issues, including child custody, temporary and permanent support, post-divorce custody and support modifications and marital property division. We believe that people are more likely to abide by an agreement if they have a role in creating it. However, if litigation is necessary to protect your interests, our attorneys have over 40 years of combined courtroom experience and we are well prepared to stand up for you. If you are in Georgia and would like to talk about how we might be able to help you, please call us at 404-909-8300, or visit us online at smithfileslaw.com.

Does it really matter who files for divorce first? - 1:40 I'm ready to file for divorce, but what do I need to know about our finances? - 5:48 I signed a prenup, but I want a divorce. Now what? - 11:58 What percentage of divorces are settled out of court? - 16:21 What is divorce mediation? - 20:31 -- If you would like to listen to this podcast but do not want to have a podcast about this topic on your device, search KNOT FAMILY MYSTERY and you will find a podcast in the true crime category with artwork similar to this show. After about 30 seconds, the true crime intro to that show fades away and this exact podcast will play. Anyone who happens to see your device will not have any idea what the subject matter of KNOT FAMILY MYSTERY is. -- We provide clients with rational, efficient, and effective guidance to resolve their legal disputes. We frequently meditate and reach agreement for our clients on any number of issues, including child custody, temporary and permanent support, post-divorce custody and support modifications and marital property division. We believe that people are more likely to abide by an agreement if they have a role in creating it. However, if litigation is necessary to protect your interests, our attorneys have over 40 years of combined courtroom experience and we are well prepared to stand up for you. If you are in Georgia and would like to talk about how we might be able to help you, please call us at 404-909-8300, or visit us online at smithfileslaw.com.

I'm a soon-to-be divorced SAHM. Do I need to get another job? OR I am a SAHM. What impact may this have on my divorce? - 1:40 My ex won't pay child support. What are my legal options? - 6:07 Do child support payments always end at age 18? - 8:13 I lost my job. Can I renegotiate spousal/child support payments? - 9:09 I want to change our custody agreement, but the divorce is final. Now what? - 10:47 Do alimony payments last forever? - 13:39 -- If you would like to listen to this podcast but do not want to have a podcast about this topic on your device, search KNOT FAMILY MYSTERY and you will find a podcast in the true crime category with artwork similar to this show. After about 30 seconds, the true crime intro to that show fades away and this exact podcast will play. Anyone who happens to see your device will not have any idea what the subject matter of KNOT FAMILY MYSTERY is. -- We provide clients with rational, efficient, and effective guidance to resolve their legal disputes. We frequently meditate and reach agreement for our clients on any number of issues, including child custody, temporary and permanent support, post-divorce custody and support modifications and marital property division. We believe that people are more likely to abide by an agreement if they have a role in creating it. However, if litigation is necessary to protect your interests, our attorneys have over 40 years of combined courtroom experience and we are well prepared to stand up for you. If you are in Georgia and would like to talk about how we might be able to help you, please call us at 404-909-8300, or visit us online at smithfileslaw.com.

What does a happy blended family sound like? And how can family holidays and gatherings stay special when they no longer resemble the occasions of years past? In this episode of Untying the Knots, Kristen and Dawn bring on two very special guests to demonstrate that a complex, divorced family can be healthy and happy--their exes! Dawn, Kristen, Wendel, and Frank relive some of the painful and cringe-worthy memories from untangling their own knots, offering listeners a glimpse into how they ultimately healed through the trauma of divorce and created new normals for their family. And while both pairs co-parent lovingly today, this is only after over a decade of hard work, hard work that Dawn considers one of the greatest accomplishments of her life. Listen to this episode to hear why Dawn and Kristen believe that family finds a way. And if you’re not there in your journey yet, hold out the hope as this conversation proves how the impossible can one day become reality. 

What is financial safety? And how can financial literacy serve as tools of empowerment when navigating divorce? In this episode of Untying the Knots, Dawn and Kristen discuss the psychological relationship often had with money and how generational wealth, poverty mindset, and debt shaming can serve as obstacles in finding financial freedom. Dawn shares her own relationship with money, imparting the lessons she has learned along the way. They speak with financial planner, Michael Robinson, about helpful strategies and mindsets when it comes to managing money, and Michael shares how financial planners also serve as educators. Listen to this episode to hear Dawn share the financial wisdom passed down from her own mother.

How does systemic racism affect personal trauma, the health of a family, and the role of parenthood? And what does it take to be actively anti-racist? In this episode of Untying the Knots, Kristen and Dawn explore their own relationship as a Black millennial woman and a white middle-aged woman, answering tough questions with both honesty and compassion. Kristen shares what it was like to spend her life operating within white spaces, and Dawn explains the ways white privilege has benefited her own life and career. Kristen and Dawn share resources on how to begin the journey in active anti-racism, and explain why guilt and empathy alone are not enough. Listen to this episode to hear why Kristen depicts white supremacy as a constant hum. 

How does intimate partner violence escalate over time? And what makes it difficult for a survivor to leave an abusive relationship? In this second episode of a series on Intimate Partner Violence, Dawn and Kristen share examples of abuse they have witnessed in their clients’ cases and how temporary protective orders can become an important tool for safety. And while it takes survivors an average of 7 times to leave an abusive relationship before it becomes final, there are helpful resources for every step along that journey. Listen to this episode of Untying the Knots to hear why there is hope for healing and future love, regardless of the fear and trauma now. 

What does intimate partner violence entail? What are some of the warning signs and patterns that indicate abuse? In this episode of Untying the Knots, Dawn and Kristen break down the red flags associated with intimate partner violence and share ways to make the home a safe space. In this first part of a two-part series, they speak with Jennifer Stolarski, Chief Assistant District Attorney for DeKalb County, Georgia, about teaching children to have healthy relationships, the root of intimate partner violence, and how COVID-19 is affecting outreach to survivors. Listen to this episode to hear how an abuse victim is already a survivor far before they leave their abuser.

Is amicable co-parenting possible? How can two parents in family conflict get on the same page about their kids? In this episode of Untying the Knots, Dawn and Kristen dive into the best practices of holistic co-parenting, shedding light on their own struggles as co-parents themselves. They discuss what co-parenting can be when consistency and compromise are at the forefront, and how important it is to give your children permission to love their other parent--even in front of you. They speak with clinical psychologist and Cognitive Behavioral therapist, Dr. Kristen Carothers, about the importance of addressing your own trauma before working on your children’s and how validation is essential to healing. Listen to this episode to hear why fighting your instincts can work to your family’s advantage in the long term. For more information, please visit smithfileslaw.com.

What makes a good support system? And how can support systems create healing and progress during a time of family conflict? In this episode of Untying the Knots, Dawn and Kristen explore what to look for in support systems and share how therapy has been an essential tool in their own family — crisis or not. With the growth in virtual therapy sessions, support is opening up to marginalized communities and making healing possible for those who can’t physically get to an office. They speak with family therapists, Tracy and Andrew McConaghie, to discuss the importance of not talking your family out of their feelings, as well as why a divorce shouldn’t result in a scarlet letter D. Listen to this episode to hear why you deserve support. And don’t be tempted; your lawyer isn’t it. For more information, please visit smithfileslaw.com.

What are the rules of disengagement? Are there dos and don’ts to breaking up? In this episode of Untying the Knots, Dawn and Kristen discuss the missteps of their own separations, the common mistakes they encounter in their practice, and what actions they believe can help families long-term. Whether it’s staying off social media or enlisting the help of a support system, this episode explores how to ditch a black and white break-up mentality to operate in the gray. They also speak with Chief Judge Christopher Brasher, who explains how these dos and don’ts ultimately affect his ruling on the bench. Listen to this episode to learn a lesson that bears repeating: be wary of receipts. For more information, please visit smithfileslaw.com.

Should parents stay together for the kids? Does child support still take place if both parents are co-parenting amicably? In this episode of Untying the Knots, hosts Dawn and Kristen answer questions like these and unpack some of the most common, and often destructive, myths about family. They speak with Director of Research and Public Education for the Council on Contemporary Families, Stephanie Coontz, who (literally) wrote the book on the evolution of the modern family, and gain insight into how social structures created in the 1950s color our expectations still today. Listen to this episode to hear Dawn tell you the good news: your family is not “broken”. For more information, please visit smithfileslaw.com.

What is a normal, healthy family supposed to look like? And what happens when the white picket fence dream breaks apart? In this first episode of Untying the Knots, hosts Dawn and Kristen share their own experiences as both children of divorce and modern day co-parents themselves. Through their personal journeys of intentional healing, these two women have found a way to function within their new ideas of normal. Listen to this episode of Untying the Knots to find out what nickname Dawn has for her ex-husband’s wife. And spoiler alert, it’s actually pretty beautiful. For more information, please visit www.smithfileslaw.com.

What does it take to holistically navigate family crisis? Is it possible to endure major family changes without the trauma? On the first season of Untying the Knots - launching July 1 - family law attorneys Dawn Smith and Kristen Files share tools and resources on the dos and don’ts of breaking up, co-parenting, financial safety, and more. With plenty of personal experience navigating family crisis themselves, Dawn and Kristen share their own stories as they sit with expert guests and discuss what it takes to survive the tangles and strengthen the ties.