https://youtu.be/fBn2sex1rzg?si=k9sQaJ669QJ_D2rm

Including a cost of living adjustment (COLA) in a separation agreement for future child support modifications can be beneficial in several situations. Typically, child support is modified based on the current incomes of both parties, using the statutory formula under the Child Support Guidelines. However, a COLA adjusts the monthly child support amount according to the increase in the cost of living from the last modification date.

For more information about mediation, divorce, and family law, check out my website — www.clarepiromediation.com.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zZHeg-aX0JQ

This video discusses using income averaging to determine child support when income fluctuates yearly. Averaging a few years of income can be a simple approach for calculating initial child support and can also be included in separation agreements for future modifications. However, if there's a significant income variation (20-30% or more), averaging may not accurately reflect the needs of the children or the payer's ability to pay.

For more information about mediation, divorce, and family law, check out my website — ClarePiroMediation.com.

How do you handle child support in cases where employment bonuses vary significantly from year to year? By creating accurate monthly budgets, both parties can determine a stable monthly child support amount. But how do those bonuses fit in?  

There is a statute in New York that allows you to file a petition in court to modify your child support agreement if there has been a significant change in circumstances, three years have passed, or if either party's income has increased or decreased by 15% or more. The statutory triggers may not fit your unique situation, so instead, you can include modifications in your separation agreement now.

For more information about mediation, divorce, and family law, check out my website — ClarePiroMediation.com.

Mediation can help resolve co-parenting conflicts, especially those involving individualized education plans (IEP). Mediation can assist you in reaching a consensus on your child's IEP terms or the need for evaluation. Including an education consultant in the process can help you explore options you might not have considered. For more information about mediation, divorce, and family law, check out my website — ClarePiroMediation.com.

 

There is a common misconception that ending a marriage signifies failure. From her extensive experience with clients and friends, Clare emphasizes that internalizing feelings of failure can hinder your ability to progress healthily. She encourages reflecting on behaviors during the marriage, recognizing areas for personal growth, and seeking support from professionals and friends.

For more information about mediation, divorce, and family law, check out my website — ClarePiroMediation.com.

 

In my latest video, I discuss the surprising benefits of taking a deliberate break during divorce mediation. From emotional readiness to financial changes and even high-conflict situations, taking breaks can help you return to mediation more prepared and focused, ultimately leading to successful outcomes.

For more information about mediation, divorce, and family law, check out my website — ClarePiroMediation.com.

 

How can considerable separate assets owned by one spouse impact the equitable distribution of marital property? In mediation, it's up to the couple to determine what they consider equitable, rather than leaving it to a judge or lawyers. This can be approached in several ways, but no matter what a couple decides, they must involve a financial professional to assess the implications of their different options.

For more information about mediation, divorce, and family law, check out my website — ClarePiroMediation.com.

 

Clare Piro, a family and divorce mediator and attorney, advises against pressuring a spouse into choosing a mediator they don't like. Instead, she suggests identifying the qualities each of you seeks in a mediator and using those criteria to evaluate potential mediators. If your spouse continues to reject all options, it might raise questions about their willingness to engage in good faith mediation. In that case, you may need to reassess if mediation is the right path forward.

If you would like more information about mediation, prenups, and family law, check out my website — ClarePiroMediation.com.

 

 

 

Clare Piro, a family and divorce mediator and attorney, emphasizes the importance of creating a child-focused parenting plan rather than getting stuck on labels like 50/50 custody or primary residential parent. She suggests shifting the conversation towards understanding the children's needs and considering factors, such as their developmental stage, activities, and preferences for structure or flexibility. Practical considerations like living arrangements and proximity also play a crucial role.

If you would like more information about mediation, prenups, and family law, check out my website — ClarePiroMediation.com.