In this episode, we dive into how parental alcoholism (or substance misuse) can impact child custody and visitation arrangements. We’ll explore how courts evaluate the role of substance abuse in parenting decisions and the potential consequences for parents struggling with alcoholism or alcohol misuse. You'll also hear about legal strategies to protect children’s well-being and how alternative dispute resolution methods, like Restorative Divorce and mediation, can offer more cooperative solution...
Sep 09, 2024•13 min•Season 3Ep. 4
In this episode of the Restorative Divorce Podcast, we sit down with Brenda Bridges, founder of Bridging Divorce Solutions, to explore how her personal journey through an unexpected and challenging divorce inspired her to create a better, non-adversarial process for others. Brenda shares her story of transitioning from a yoga instructor to a financial advisor, the obstacles she faced, and the lessons she learned along the way. Join us as Brenda discusses the importance of setting clear goals bef...
Aug 07, 2024•35 min•Season 3Ep. 3
Discover why Restorative Divorce outshines DIY and online services. Learn how our personalized, legally compliant, and emotionally supportive approach ensures long-term family well-being. Explore more at birtlaw.com.
Jul 02, 2024•9 min•Season 3Ep. 2
In this enlightening episode of Restorative Divorce, we explore a topic close to every parent's heart: the power of apologizing to our children during divorce and coparenting. Join us as we delve into practical strategies and heartfelt insights to help young parents navigating dual incomes find clarity and connection in their coparenting journey. Discover the profound impact of modeling accountability and responsibility for our children, and learn how sincere apologies can repair trust and stren...
Apr 02, 2024•6 min•Season 3Ep. 1
In this episode, Erin Birt and Tyler Birt dive into the complexities of co-parenting in an era dominated by electronic devices. Drawing from a recent blog post, they explore a pressing question: Can a co-parent power off a child's cell phone during their parenting time? The discussion touches upon the blurred lines of trust, safety concerns, and the challenges faced during unsupervised visitation. Erin and Tyler dissect the nuances of electronic device agreements, emphasizing the importance of s...
Mar 10, 2024•18 min•Season 2Ep. 6
Navigating the Emotional Rollercoaster of Mediation discusses the common challenges individuals face during the mediation process. From feeling a loss of control to dealing with false accusations, mediation can be emotionally taxing. The transcript highlights the importance of recognizing these emotions, taking breaks when necessary, and practicing self-care to overcome emotional exhaustion. It emphasizes that while mediation can be beneficial in resolving conflicts, it's essential to address th...
Mar 10, 2024•12 min•Season 2Ep. 5
In this episode, we delve into the intricate world of family law, exploring the nuanced benefits of in-person court appearances versus the convenience of short, quick Zoom sessions. Our expert guests shed light on why the traditional approach to court proceedings can offer a more comprehensive understanding of the complexities involved in family matters. We also emphasize the critical role of completing financial disclosures in family law cases. Unveiling your financial circumstances through det...
Feb 05, 2024•11 min•Season 2Ep. 4
🎙️ Dive into the complexities of co-parenting in the digital age with our latest podcast episode! Join us as we unravel the impact of electronic devices on child custody arrangements, exploring the highs and lows of navigating technology in divorced or never-married co-parenting scenarios, particularly in Illinois. 📱 In this episode, we address the ever-evolving landscape of parenting in a digital world, shedding light on the conflicts that arise and the emotional stakes involved. Discover the...
Jan 31, 2024•11 min•Season 2Ep. 3
In this insightful episode, we bring together the legal expertise of a seasoned Divorce Attorney, Erin Birt, and the emotional guidance of skilled therapists (thank you Michael Galbraith and Bill Doherty) to delve into the complex realm of Discernment Counseling. Whether you're at a crossroads in your marriage or contemplating the divorce process, this episode provides invaluable insights into finding clarity and assessing your readiness for this life-changing decision. This episode is an excerp...
Jan 25, 2024•23 min•Season 2Ep. 2
In this episode, we'll discuss the signs your marriage is on the verge of collapse. If you're feeling like your marriage is headed for trouble, then watch this video and see if you can identify any of the signs. Marital Collapse can happen quickly, so it's important to be aware of the warning signs and take action before it's too late. Listen and see if you can figure out what might be causing your marriage to fall apart and what you can do about it. You'll have a better understanding of why rel...
Jul 19, 2023•25 min•Season 2Ep. 1
Are you wondering if co-parenting or parallel parenting is right for you? In this episode, we'll be diving deeper into the differences between co-parenting and parallel parenting to help you decide which is right for you. We'll be discussing each type of parenting and explaining the different circumstances under which each would be the best option. After listening to this episode, you'll have a better understanding of the differences between co-parenting and parallel parenting and be able to mak...
May 12, 2023•32 min•Season 1Ep. 17
Should Illinois Pet Custody Laws Change?In this episode, we'll discuss the pros and cons of changing Illinois pet custody laws. We'll look at what the court considers in pet custody, and discuss some of the problems with current laws, and how you can best talk about pet custody. If you're a pet lover in Illinois, then you know that the current pet custody laws can be tough to deal with. In this episode, we'll discuss the changing Illinois pet custody laws and see if there's a better way to deal ...
May 04, 2023•24 min•Season 1Ep. 16
In this episode, we're going to discuss three things you can learn from celebrity divorces. First, private divorces can be a valuable opportunity to learn about what works and what doesn't work when it comes to divorce. Second, honest and respectful divorces can help parties maintain a good relationship with each other in the future. Third, keeping children a priority is key when making custody and other custody arrangements. By listening to this podcast, you'll learn some valuable wisdom about ...
May 02, 2023•25 min•Season 1Ep. 15
In this podcast, we'll discuss different mortgage options for the family centered divorce. We'll discuss different mortgage options, loan assumptions, real estate market conditions, and whether a spouse can qualify as a first time home buyer. We'll also discuss the importance of planning early to keep your house, and how a divorce mediator will help you through the divorce process. If you're considering a family centered divorce, be sure to listen to this podcast! We'll discuss all the different...
Apr 21, 2023•32 min•Season 1Ep. 14
In this episode we will cover divorce from a child's perspective. Join us was we dive deep into the concerns of a child of divorce and learn some tips to help restore your coparenting relationship and start to restore any parent child contact problems caused by a divorce or separation. Contact us today to discuss your family law or mediation needs. (630) 891-2478. www.birtlaw.com
Mar 23, 2023•16 min•Season 1Ep. 13
Why Prep for the Holidays in Spring? If you need to mediate to change your holiday schedule with your coparent, start preparing by listening to this episode. I will cover tips for modifying your holiday parenting schedule in your custody judgment and how to navigate holidays without your children.
Mar 22, 2023•9 min•Season 1Ep. 12
Listen to Part 2 of 3 Ways to Self-Sabotage Your Divorce. In this episode we discuss how abrupt and poor decisions can effect custody during your divorce. We also explain a new way to look at that tough word, "compromise" so you don't self-sabotage your divorce. If you are thinking of a divorce exit plan or starting a divorce, we'd love to help you assess your options between mediation and the various ways you can work through your divorce. Contact us today at (630) 891-2478 or at www.birtlaw.co...
Mar 08, 2023•16 min•Season 1Ep. 11
If you are thinking about getting a divorce or you have learned your spouse wants a divorce, this episode is for you. In this episode we cover Part 1 of the 3 Ways to Self-Sabotoge Your Divorce. Learn from the mistakes of others to protect yourself, your children, and your divorce process. Want to know what to avoid and how to help yourself? Listen now. Contact us today for help at (630) 891-2478 or www.birtlaw.com.
Mar 08, 2023•18 min•Season 1Ep. 10
If you're going through a divorce or separation, it's important to work with a divorce attorney or mediator that understands the often overlooked details by couples. In this episode, we're going to discuss some of the lesser known divorce details you need to know - from filing taxes to handling parenting time reviews, we'll take a look at everything you need to know to plan ahead for a successful restorative divorce process. We'll cover planning for tax season, planning for the summer season, an...
Mar 01, 2023•24 min•Season 1Ep. 9
Electronic devices can make coparenting especially challenging. Do you need a Coparenting Electronic Device Agreement? In this episode, we'll explore the risks of entering into an electronic device agreement with your coparent. We'll discuss how this agreement could impact your coparenting situation, and how you can mitigate these risks. If you're contemplating entering into an electronic device agreement with your partner, be sure to listen to this episode first! We'll discuss the risks and giv...
Feb 25, 2023•11 min•Season 1Ep. 8
Divorce is extremely expensive and stressful. Join Attorney and Mediator Erin Birt and Paralegal Tyler Birt to learn what is a Kitchen Table Divorce, who can have a Kitchen Table Divorce and tips for a successful Kitchen Table Divorce. If you are frustrated thinking of high legal fees and feel you don't need that, this episode is for you! Transcripts and legal assistance available at www.birtlaw.com.
Feb 17, 2023•17 min•Season 1Ep. 7
Are you experiencing loneliness after divorce? It's not uncommon. You can also feel unpredictable emotions once your divorce is finalized. In this episode we talk about the unique feeling of loneliness after divorce, restoring happiness after experiencing loneliness after divorce, how grief post divorce can feel different, and ways to restore happiness. Need help after your divorce? Want to get a head start on your divorce and the next chapter? Contact us today at (630) 891-2478. Transcripts ava...
Feb 09, 2023•19 min•Season 1Ep. 6
Becoming a parent changes you and coparenting can change everything. In this episode we talk about how becoming a mom, dad, or parent can change your relationship, tips when considering a separation or divorce, what is a Guardian ad litem, and what parenting communication tools can help restore communication for coparents in Illinois.
Feb 01, 2023•21 min•Season 1Ep. 5
In this podcast we cover a warning sign that you might be divorcing too fast: when alcohol abuse or addiction is a main concern. We talk about ending a marriage when alcoholism or alcohol abuse is present. Learn about the stages of change, risks to you and your divorce process, and resources to help stabilize the situation so you can move forward productively with your divorce and restore a safe environment for you and your children.
Jan 26, 2023•20 min•Season 1Ep. 4
We enter a marriage thinking it will last, unfortunatly, if your marriage has accumulated debt, often that debt outlasts both marriage and divorce. How can you divorce with a lot of debt? What risks do you face during your divorce if you have a lot of credit card or other debt? In this podcast we talk about How to Divorce with a lot of Debt, options you have, and tips for restoring your financial wellness before and after a divorce with a lot of debt.
Jan 19, 2023•28 min•Season 1Ep. 3
You can overcome the challenges of divorcing a narcissist with planning, support, and an experienced attorney. Listen for valuable divorce tips whether you are in litigation, mediation, or the collaborative divorce process. We cover the DSM-V for Narcissistic Personality Disorder, Narcissitic Traits, What to Expect, and How to Handle Divorcing a Narcissist.
Jan 12, 2023•22 min•Season 1Ep. 2
Served with Divorce Marital Interrogatories? It was our #1 topic on our divorce website in 2022. Marital Interrogatories seek answers to your divorce questions but it is an extremely expensive process. Learn how we can help you get those answers in less time and for less money in 2023.
Jan 05, 2023•9 min•Season 1Ep. 1
