Legally adding a new member to your family can be a complex and very stressful process. There are certain rules that apply to almost every adoption in Iowa. The person hoping to adopt typically needs to be a legal adult and must be able to pass a background check....
Des Moines Iowa Law Blog
Handling Halloween with the kids when you’re newly divorced
Your first Halloween post-divorce or separation is just ahead, and you’ve got a problem: Your co-parent has claimed that day (this year) as part of your custody and parenting plan. At the time you made your agreement, you probably didn’t think it would affect you as...
Tips for making childcare decisions after divorce
It can often be difficult for co-parents to make childcare decisions after they have gotten divorced. You may not be able to watch your children for the entire time that you have custody, however, so you need some options. People often consider hiring a nanny, using...
That five-finger discount could spell trouble for your teen
When you think about shoplifting you probably envision a teenager stealing a CD or a child taking a candy bar. The truth is that across the nation, stores lose anywhere from $2,000-$3,000 per month to shoplifters. You might be surprised to learn that taking advantage...
3 ways to help your child through your divorce
A child whose parents are going through a divorce will often feel like their world is being turned upside down. It’s up to the parents to find ways to help the child through this time. There are some steps you can take if you’re in this position to help with the...
Can you be penalized for your child’s legal mistakes?
Children and teens are bound to make mistakes, because they’re still learning the laws of the land and what they can or cannot do. It’s possible that your teen might get caught drinking and driving or exchanging drugs with another juvenile. In those cases, it is...
What your college student needs to know about their legal rights
If your child is starting college this fall – particularly if they’ll be away from home for the first time – you’re no doubt worried about multiple things. We’re going to talk about your child’s legal rights if they find themselves dealing with law enforcement. Even...
How should you care for a sick child when co-parenting?
Having a sick child is hard on a parent, but having to try to co-parent in these situations can make it exponentially more difficult. It’s critical that both parents put their own wishes aside so they can do what’s best for the child who’s sick, as well as their other...
It’s not too soon for co-parents to plan for back-to-school time
It may seem like summer has barely started, but you’ll be seeing those back-to-school sale ads before you know it. For newly separated or divorced parents who are sharing custody of their kids, the start of the school year can bring added challenges. Even the little...
Did your teen illegally download a video game?
Not long ago, the newest video games were played in public arcades. Then games hit home consoles and were bought or rented at local video stores. Today, video games can be downloaded in the blink of an eye at only a small price -- not everyone can afford these games,...