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Collaborative divorce seeks to encourage the divorcing couple to work together toward an agreement without going to court. This alternative dispute resolution (ADR) approach requires both parties to hire separate collaborative attorneys who agree to work together toward a settlement. The attorneys are specifically trained in collaborative law so the focus is to solve problems to reach a win-win solution for both parties. It also requires both parties to be actively involved in negotiations and problem-solving.
The secret to having a happy thanksgiving after divorce is simply planning for it. Planning ahead reduces the stress and sadness that often accompany this holiday after divorce. It also provides an opportunity for the divorced party to stay connected with children during such an intense time of the year when he or she might otherwise feel left out or forgotten about by those around him or her. Planning could involve creating a to-do list for Thanksgiving, having a good parenting and financial plan, and thinking about the right people to spend time with during the holidays.
If an Illinois parent endangers a child’s mental, emotional, moral, or physical health, he or she is considered a threat to the child’s safety and can be denied parenting time or responsibilities. If the parent is a convicted sex offender, the court may terminate his or her parental rights. Abusing family members, addiction to alcohol or other drugs, or living with a convicted sex offender are other situations that can result in parental rights denial.
Parents should strive to work together in creating a parenting-time schedule for the holidays that prioritizes the children’s best interests. They can, for instance, come up with a plan that allows them to share school vacations or alternate holidays every other year. They can also agree to divide some holidays in half, and where possible, designate fixed holidays to either party.