Kathryn L. Beeman, Attorney at LawFindLaw IM Template2026-04-23T08:30:27Zhttps://www.kathrynbeeman.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1100636/2019/07/cropped-site-icon-32x32.jpgOn Behalf of Kathryn L. Beeman, Attorney at Law<![CDATA[How to establish paternity in Missouri]]>https://www.kathrynbeeman.com/?p=494252026-04-23T08:30:27Z2026-04-23T08:26:40ZVoluntary acknowledgment of paternity
The easiest way to establish a father’s paternal rights is through signing an Affidavit Acknowledging Paternity. By signing this document, the father is voluntarily declaring that the newborn baby is his. In most cases, both parents sign their affidavits right after their baby is born, where hospital staff provide separate forms and witness them signing.
Once the documents are valid, the father’s name becomes part of the baby’s birth certificate. The affidavits will carry the same authority as a court order, enabling the father to request custody and visitation rights.
Filing a paternity action in court
If there is a disagreement between the mother and the alleged father, establishing paternity will require a court action. In this process, the alleged father files a paternity case with the circuit court clerk in the county where the mother and child live. After submitting the petition, he must serve the mother with a copy of the paperwork.
He may then seek help from the Family Support Division (FSD), which can assist him with free DNA testing. If the result shows a 98% or higher probability rate, Missouri law will presume that he is the father.
Once he submits the genetic testing to the court, a judge will review the evidence and issue a judgment establishing their father-child relationship. This court order provides the father with the legal foundation necessary to raise their child and make important decisions with their mother about their upbringing.
Fathers have rights, too
By navigating the legal process successfully, unmarried fathers can gain paternal rights to their children and become an active pillar in their lives. This practice also provides their offspring with various privileges, such as health insurance, the right to inheritance and eligibility for their father’s Social Security benefits.]]>On Behalf of Kathryn L. Beeman, Attorney at Law<![CDATA[3 ways dating during a divorce could impact your pending case]]>https://www.kathrynbeeman.com/?p=494232026-01-15T11:30:56Z2026-01-15T11:30:56ZIn the eyes of the court, divorce is not just the end of a contract but also an assessment of your stability and judgment. Wanting companionship during a difficult transition is natural, but the legal landscape surrounding your case is rarely forgiving. If you begin dating before the final decree is signed, it can affect the proceedings in ways you might not expect.
Parents often face a higher level of scrutiny than those without children. Your personal choices serve as evidence of your future parenting life.
Scrutiny on custody
Missouri courts prioritize the "best interests of the child" above all else. This means judges will evaluate the environment you provide and the people you introduce to your children. A new significant other brings a new history into your home that the court must examine.When you introduce someone too soon, the court may view that relationship as a source of confusion for the children and proof that you lack emotional stability. Opposing lawyers will likely investigate your new companion’s criminal record and social habits.A judge who determines that a new partner negatively affects a child's well‑being may limit your parenting time.
Risk of marital misconduct
Missouri is a no-fault divorce state, but conduct still matters during the division of property. The law allows judges to consider marital misconduct when deciding how to split assets and debts. Dating while legally married can fall into this category.Spending marital funds on dates, gifts or trips may constitute the dissipation of assets. A judge might order you to pay back the portion of money you spent on a third party. Dating also provides a reason for your spouse to allege that you are hiding marital property.Even if you feel the marriage ended long ago, the law views you as a married person until the judge signs the final papers. Financial choices during this period carry heavy weight in the final settlement.
Impact on spousal maintenance
When determining spousal maintenance (alimony), courts examine the financial resources and needs of both parties. If you live with a new individual, the court may see this as a change in your financial necessity.In general, a new relationship often removes the "need" for support in the eyes of a judge. This is because shared living expenses with a partner can lower the amount of support you receive. Receiving financial gifts from a significant other may also count as additional income.The court aims to ensure both parties can support themselves after the split. Evidence of financial help from a third party directly influences these calculations.
Proceeding with caution
If you choose to date before your divorce is finalized, consider these steps to protect your legal and financial interests:
Stay off social media: Avoid posting photos or status updates about new relationships.
Delay introductions: Wait until the divorce is final before introducing a partner to your children.
Use personal funds only: Never use joint marital accounts for dates, gifts or travel.
Avoid cohabitation: Moving in together can immediately impact alimony and support claims.
Maintaining a low profile can help keep your case focused on the facts. Privacy prevents the opposing side from using your personal life as leverage.
Clearing the path for a truly clean slate
Divorce is one of life’s most challenging transitions, but it is also the first step toward a life that truly fits who you are today. While the legal process requires patience and a temporary focus on technicalities, remember that this phase is finite. By prioritizing your stability now, you are paving the way for a healthy, vibrant future.]]>On Behalf of Kathryn L. Beeman, Attorney at Law<![CDATA[4 myths about custody modifications and parenting time]]>https://www.kathrynbeeman.com/?p=494202025-11-10T07:32:28Z2025-11-10T07:32:28ZDivorce can be an emotionally challenging experience, and working through custody arrangements often adds another layer of stress. Misunderstandings or uncertainty can make the process feel overwhelming. Having clear, accurate information empowers parents to make thoughtful decisions that prioritize their children’s well-being. Here are four misconceptions about custody that parents should know.
Myth 1: Equal parenting time is automatically granted
Some parents believe courts will split parenting time evenly without question. In reality, judges focus on the child’s best interests. They consider factors such as age, school schedule, activities and emotional needs. Equal parenting time is possible, but parents must show that it benefits the child’s growth and stability.
Myth 2: You can change custody anytime you want
Custody modifications require a significant change in circumstances. This might include moving to a new city, a major change in work hours or concerns about the child’s safety. Courts approve changes only when they are necessary, not simply convenient. Filing without clear reasons can lead to delays or denial.
Myth 3: The parent who earns more money gets more time
Financial resources do not determine custody. Judges focus on the child’s well-being first. What matters most is each parent’s ability to provide a stable, supportive home. Money can affect child support, but it usually does not affect parenting time.
Myth 4: Custody modifications are quick and easy
Changing a custody order takes time, especially if parents do not agree. The process can include filing a petition, attending mediation and appearing in court. Being prepared and working with an attorney can help the process go more smoothly and increase the chances of a positive outcome.Knowing the truth behind these myths allows parents to approach custody modifications with realistic expectations.
Making informed choices for your family
Custody changes can feel like a lot of work, but learning the facts is the first step toward a fair arrangement. Parents in Missouri who want to modify custody or parenting time should consult an experienced family law attorney. Professional guidance ensures the case is handled correctly and keeps the focus on what matters most, your child’s well-being.
]]>On Behalf of Kathryn L. Beeman, Attorney at Law<![CDATA[What if one spouse wastes or destroys shared assets?]]>https://www.kathrynbeeman.com/?p=494172025-08-12T16:32:51Z2025-08-12T16:32:51ZChoosing to end a relationship that spouses expected to last for life can be quite challenging. People often become emotional and act in ways that they usually would not. In certain scenarios, the misconduct of one spouse before or during divorce can affect the outcome of the process.
Some people act out in the early stages of divorce or toward the end of the marriage while the relationship declines. Their conduct can have negative implications for the marital estate. For example, one spouse might accrue thousands of dollars in credit card debt on unnecessary spending in the weeks before they file for divorce. They may have wasted hundreds of dollars a month attempting to hide an extramarital affair. People reviewing financial records as they prepare for divorce are often angry when they discover that the spouse has wasted or destroyed marital resources. What options do spouses have when significant financial misconduct occurs shortly before or during a divorce?
Dissipation can influence property division
Typically, judges dividing marital property do not consider marital misconduct when deciding how to allocate property and responsibility for marital debts. However, intentional dissipation of assets is an exception to that rule. If financial documentation supports claims of dissipation, a judge may factor the intentional waste into the final distribution of marital resources. For example, a spouse conducting an affair may have purchased a second mobile phone. They may have paid for hotel rooms and romantic dinners, possibly even vacations that they claimed were business trips. The other spouse can quantify the amount wasted on an extramarital affair and then ask the courts to hold the other spouse accountable for those debts or to consider the amount of wasted income when dividing other marital property. If one spouse destroyed, threw away, gave away or sold marital assets for unreasonable prices, proof of that dissipation could also influence property distribution decisions. The more that one spouse wasted or destroyed, the bigger the impact their misconduct could have on the final outcome of the property division process. Carefully reviewing financial records can help people pursue appropriate property division outcomes when they divorce. The dissipation of marital assets can alter the final distribution of property in a litigated divorce.]]>On Behalf of Kathryn L. Beeman, Attorney at Law<![CDATA[How does a parent’s new relationship impact custody arrangements?]]>https://www.kathrynbeeman.com/?p=494152025-05-09T20:12:32Z2025-05-09T20:12:32ZWhen a parent enters a new relationship, it can raise questions about how this change will affect child custody. The court’s primary concern is the child’s best interest. However, a new relationship can influence custody arrangements, especially if there are concerns about the impact on the child’s well-being. If you're in this situation, it’s important to understand what factors the court will consider.
Understanding Missouri's perspective on custody arrangements
Missouri courts prioritize the child’s best interest when making custody decisions. They look at factors like the emotional bonds between the child and both parents, the ability of each parent to provide for the child, and the child’s adjustment to their home, school, and community. A parent’s new relationship may impact these factors if the new partner could harm the child’s well-being.
The role of the new partner’s involvement in the child’s life
A significant concern is whether the new partner will play a role in the child’s life. For example, if the new partner lives in the same home and takes on a parental role, the court may review how this dynamic affects the child’s emotional stability. If the new partner has a criminal history, substance abuse issues, or other problems, this could influence custody decisions. If the new partner supports the child’s needs, it may help the parent’s case.
What to expect during a custody modification request
If requesting a modification due to a new relationship, you must show how the change affects the child’s best interest. If the new partner disrupts the child’s routine or well-being, the court may adjust the custody arrangement. The court will need evidence that the new relationship negatively impacts the child.In Missouri, the court is focused on protecting the child’s emotional and physical well-being. If your new relationship benefits the child, the court may not change the arrangement. However, if concerns arise, it’s important to address them.]]>On Behalf of Kathryn L. Beeman, Attorney at Law<![CDATA[How is a business valued in a contested divorce?]]>https://www.kathrynbeeman.com/?p=494072025-02-05T18:42:50Z2025-02-05T18:42:50ZA business owned by one or both spouses often becomes a major point of dispute in a contested divorce. Determining its value is crucial for fair asset division. Courts require an accurate assessment to ensure each spouse receives an equitable share based on the business’s worth.
Methods of business valuation
There are three primary ways to evaluate a business in divorce cases. The asset approach calculates the total value of business assets minus liabilities. The income approach estimates future earnings and determines value based on expected profits. The market approach compares the business to similar ones recently sold. The chosen method depends on the nature of the business and the circumstances of the divorce.
Challenges in valuing a business
Determining an accurate value can be complicated. Business owners may try to underreport income or overstate expenses to reduce the reported value. Disputes also arise over intangible assets like brand reputation and customer goodwill. Forensic accountants often step in to conduct a detailed review of financial records and ensure transparency.
Impact on asset division
Once the business value is determined, courts decide how to divide it. Some spouses buy out the other’s interest, while others agree to offset the value with other assets like real estate or retirement accounts. In some cases, courts order the sale of the business to split proceeds. Each approach depends on the financial stability and goals of both spouses.Business valuation often affects alimony and child support calculations. A higher valuation may lead to increased financial obligations for the business-owning spouse. Tax implications also play a role, as selling or transferring ownership can result in capital gains taxes or other financial consequences.]]>On Behalf of Kathryn L. Beeman, Attorney at Law<![CDATA[How can a stepparent adoption impact family dynamics?]]>https://www.kathrynbeeman.com/?p=494042024-11-01T21:21:48Z2024-11-01T21:21:48ZStepparent adoption can have a significant effect on the dynamics within a family. This process legally solidifies the role of a stepparent, creating new relationships and redefining existing ones. Understanding how this adoption can impact family interactions can help everyone adjust to the changes.
Strengthening family bonds
Stepparent adoption often strengthens family bonds. It provides a sense of stability and belonging for the child, making them feel secure as part of a cohesive family unit. The stepparent becomes a legal guardian, which can lead to deeper trust and stronger emotional connections. The adoption also helps eliminate ambiguity regarding roles and responsibilities within the family.
Emotional adjustments for children
The adoption process can bring about various emotional responses for the children involved. While some children may welcome the idea of having their stepparent legally recognized, others may struggle with conflicting feelings. They may feel loyalty to their biological parent, which can lead to confusion or hesitation about the adoption. Open communication and patience from all family members are crucial to help children navigate these emotions.
Impact on the relationship with the biological parent
The adoption can also affect the relationship with the child’s other biological parent. If the adoption means terminating the rights of a biological parent, the child might experience a sense of loss or even shame. It’s important to consider these potential emotional impacts and provide support to help the child process these changes in a healthy way.
Creating a unified family identity
One of the positive outcomes of stepparent adoption is the creation of a unified family identity. The process often brings a sense of completeness, where the child, stepparent, and biological parent all feel like a cohesive unit. This unity can help reduce the feeling of separation between "original" and "new" family members, fostering a stable and loving environment for everyone involved.Stepparent adoption marks the beginning of a new chapter for families. Embracing the changes with openness and empathy can help everyone build a strong foundation for the future.
]]>On Behalf of Kathryn L. Beeman, Attorney at Law<![CDATA[Missouri paternity laws and unmarried fathers’ custody rights]]>https://www.kathrynbeeman.com/?p=494022024-07-29T20:50:14Z2024-08-01T20:49:53ZPaternity laws in Missouri can significantly influence the rights of unmarried fathers when it comes to custody and visitation. Understanding these laws is crucial for fathers seeking to maintain a relationship with their children.
Establishing paternity
Establishing paternity legally identifies a man as a child's father. In Missouri, you can do this voluntarily by signing an Affidavit Acknowledging Paternity or through a court order based on genetic testing. Once you establish paternity, fathers gain the right to request custody and visitation.
Custody and visitation rights
Missouri law ensures that both parents have the opportunity to be in their child's life. Once the father establishes paternity, fathers can seek custody or visitation. The court considers the child's best interests, focusing on the child's needs and the parents' ability to provide care. Factors like the parents' relationships with the child and their ability to meet the child's needs are crucial.
The best interests of the child
The court's primary concern is always the child's well-being. Factors include the child's age, emotional ties with each parent, and the parent's ability to provide a stable environment. Missouri courts aim to encourage ongoing relationships with both parents unless it's not in the child's best interest.
Support and involvement
Unmarried fathers should stay actively involved in their child's life. This involvement can positively impact custody and visitation decisions. Demonstrating a commitment to the child's well-being, including emotional and financial support, strengthens the case for custody or visitation rights.
Building strong foundations
Understanding paternity laws and their impact on custody and visitation is essential for unmarried fathers. By focusing on the child's best interests, fathers can foster strong, healthy relationships with their children.]]>On Behalf of Kathryn L. Beeman, Attorney at Law<![CDATA[Should you modify child custody as kids grow into teenagers?]]>https://www.kathrynbeeman.com/?p=493912025-04-21T19:54:17Z2024-05-06T19:26:30ZWhy change might be necessary
When kids are small, custody plans focus on giving them a stable and secure home. But as they turn into teens, they start to have their own schedules, friends and school commitments. They also want more independence. These changes might mean it is time to think about which parent can better support their new activities and school life. Recognizing these changes is key for parents thinking about updating their custody plans.
Listening to the teen's choices
As teens age, they often have strong opinions about where and with whom they want to live. Courts usually consider the preferences of teenagers more seriously than those of younger children when making custody decisions. Parents should listen to their teens and consider their wishes when they talk about custody.
Adjusting for new responsibilities
Teens face big decisions like picking a high school, joining clubs or sports, or even starting part-time jobs. These new responsibilities might make it easier for them to live with one parent instead of the other. For example, one parent might live closer to the high school or the place where the teen works.
Supporting emotional and personal growth
The teenage years are full of emotional and personal growth. Teenagers might benefit from spending time with the parent who best understands their emotional needs and can provide the right support as they navigate high school challenges, peer relationships and personal development.
Legal considerations
When parents decide to modify custody arrangements for a teen, they must file a formal request with the courts. This process often involves showing that circumstances have changed significantly since the last custody agreement and that a new plan would be better for the teen’s well-being.
As kids turn into teenagers, their custody arrangements might need an update to match their changing lives. Parents should work together and ensure any changes in custody are in the best interest of their teenager, providing both stability and the flexibility they need during these key years.]]>On Behalf of Kathryn L. Beeman, Attorney at Law<![CDATA[5 common reasons divorce mediation fails in Missouri]]>https://www.kathrynbeeman.com/?p=493892024-01-30T02:46:44Z2024-02-06T02:45:17Z1. Inadequate communication
One primary reason divorce mediation often falters in Missouri is a communication breakdown. Misunderstandings and misinterpretations can lead to frustration and impede progress. Without clear and open lines of communication, couples may struggle to express their needs, concerns and expectations, hindering the mediation's success.
2. Unresolved emotional conflicts
Emotional conflicts that remain unaddressed can pose significant challenges to successful mediation. Missouri couples navigating divorce often bring emotional baggage into the mediation room. Unresolved feelings of anger, resentment or sadness can interfere with the ability to make rational decisions. Emotional turmoil may cloud judgment, making it difficult for both parties to compromise and reach mutually agreeable solutions.
3. Power imbalances
If one party feels overpowered or marginalized, there may be an uneven distribution of decision-making authority. Achieving a fair and equitable resolution becomes challenging when one party feels they have no influence.
4. Financial disputes
Financial matters often contribute to the breakdown of divorce mediation in Missouri. Disagreements over asset valuation or division, alimony or child support can escalate tension and impede progress. Without a clear understanding and agreement on financial matters, couples may find it difficult to move forward.
5. Unwillingness to listen or compromise
Effective mediation demands a willingness to hear the other's perspective and engage in a process of give-and-take. Unfortunately, when individuals are adamant about their desires without considering the concerns of their spouse, it stymies the mediation process.
A refusal to compromise or approach mediation fairly can escalate tensions. Overcoming this hurdle requires a commitment from both parties to actively listen, understand and make concessions.]]>