Same-sex couples used to formalize their relationships through Vermont’s civil union law. By 2009, the state stopped recognizing civil unions and began legalizing same-sex marriages. Then, for both existing same-sex civil unions and new marriages, splitting up works...
Montpelier Law Blog
Who will get the house in my divorce?
A house is a repository of your married life’s precious memories and milestones. However, it also holds painful reminders of how your relationship disintegrated into a divorce. Aside from its sentimental value, a house may be one of the significant assets that you and...
How can I move on if I’m getting divorced?
Divorce throws your life off course. It turns the individual you consider your primary anchor into someone destabilizing your life. It also causes sudden and simultaneous turbulence in other areas – your personalities, routines, beliefs and goals. However, moving past...
Can my lawyer help me if my spouse demands mediation?
When your soon-to-be ex or your child’s other parent wants to seek mediation to resolve divorce issues, your lawyer can put your mind at ease and help you through the process. While mediation rules may seem easy to understand, there may still be specific legal...
Can I get spousal maintenance (alimony) in Vermont?
The breakdown of your marriage upsets the balance of your finances. If you rely on your ex for your monetary needs, a divorce can create a significant financial burden. Vermont’s spousal maintenance, also referred to as alimony, may provide relief by ordering one...
What is child custody called in Vermont?
When divorce or split disrupts your family, you hope your child still turns out well. But for that to happen, you and your soon-to-be ex have to stay committed to your parental obligations. In Vermont, the court encourages both parents to maintain a frequent and...
What can I do if my ex refuses to pay child support?
When you and your spouse or partner had children, you both committed to providing them with the love and care they deserve. Now that you're no longer together, your ex may be refusing to pay child support. This is frustrating when they won't contribute to childcare...
Vermont is among the top 10 states for long-lasting marriages
It's often said that half of all U.S. marriages end in divorce, but this is simply not true. In fact, the divorce rate nationwide has been declining for many years. And, since Americans are generally living longer lives, this means that marriages are generally lasting...
How can you emotionally prepare and get through your divorce?
The range of emotions associated with divorce can arguably be a league of its own. It often runs the whole gamut of intense feelings. But even before you take on the emotional rollercoaster, fear strikes first. You fear all uncertainties – how you’ll handle the...
Filing an answer to a divorce petition in Vermont
Your spouse has already gotten the ball rolling by filing a divorce complaint with the court, along with the requisite forms and filing fee. They will be considered the plaintiff in the case, while you will be considered the defendant. Copies of the completed forms...