Apfelbaum Martinez Law

Author: Apfelbaum Martinez Law

  • 3 Reasons to Hire a Criminal Attorney If You Are Arrested

    3 Reasons to Hire a Criminal Attorney If You Are Arrested

    If you have been arrested, contacting an experienced criminal attorney should be one of the first things you do.

    There are a variety of emotions you may be feeling and thoughts that will likely race through your mind if you ever have a negative run-in with law enforcement.

    An experienced criminal attorney can provide you with objective advice and legal counsel. Plus, it is your constitutional right to remain silent and have an attorney present if you are being questioned.

    3 Reasons to Hire a Criminal Attorney Upon Arrest

    Whether it is a first-time or minor offense or a serious felony, there are several reasons to hire a criminal attorney.

    #1: Properly preserve evidence

    Upon your arrest, there are several thoughts and emotions you will likely be sorting through and preserving evidentiary support for your case probably is not one of them. Fortunately, it is one of the top items on your criminal attorney’s mind.

    Properly preserving evidence is often important for helping to build your defense strategy. Hiring a criminal attorney as soon as possible is best so that important details that may be key to your defense are not forgotten.

    #2: Tenacious representation on your behalf

    After an arrest, individuals are often emotionally confused or distraught, and do not know the law, which can lead to mistakes of fact, missed deadlines or potential helpful facts or issues which results in them poorly defending themselves. A criminal attorney has extensive knowledge of the law to help you receive a fair trial or other disposition, if that is what is most appropriate

    They can formulate and articulate the best arguments for important things such as bond or other pretrial release, requiring the state to fulfill their duty to provide you all relevant information they have about your case, and negotiating the best resolution to your situation.

    #3: Sound advice and guidance

    A reputable criminal attorney can provide you with legally sound advice and guidance per your unique situation. They will also be able to evaluate and explain whether a plea deal or a trial is in your best interest.

    Finding The Best Criminal Attorney for Your Case

    If you or a loved one has recently been arrested, one of the first steps you should take is hiring a criminal attorney. They will be able to guide you through each step of the process and provide you with the appropriate defense to best protect your rights and fight the charges against you.

    Even if you have not yet been charged with a crime, if you’ve been contacted by the police and feel they might consider you a suspect in their investigation, it’s critical to consult with a criminal defense lawyer before speaking with them.

    At Apfelbaum Law, we can help you with your criminal matter. If you need assistance with your criminal charges, or have questions about any potential legal matter, please contact us today for a consultation.

  • Is Your First DUI Offense a Misdemeanor in Florida?

    Is Your First DUI Offense a Misdemeanor in Florida?

    There is a wide range of emotions you are bound to have if you have been arrested for a DUI charge—especially if it is your first offense. You are likely frightened and confused about what your future looks like or any repercussions that you may be subject to after your arrest.

    Feelings of anger and frustration may even arise if you were not driving under the influence or feel that you were unfairly targeted. While Florida DUI laws are not as strict as other states, several DUI laws have been passed to toughen the penalties for a conviction.

    How Does Florida Law View a First Time DUI Offense?

    According to Florida Statute 316.193(1) and (2)(a), a DUI offense is when an individual is driving or in physical control of an automobile and meets any of the conditions:

    • Under the influence of alcohol or a chemical or controlled substance that affects or impairs that individual’s normal faculties.
    • Breath alcohol is a level 0.08 or greater
    • Blood alcohol is a level of 0.08 or greater

    Common Penalties for a First DUI Offense

    In Florida, your first DUI offense is classified as a first degree misdemeanor. However, there are additional, more serious DUI penalties that offenders may be subject to. For example, if the individual had a blood or breath-alcohol level of 0.15 or greater or if a minor was present at the time of the offense, the offender may be subject to stricter DUI penalties for such an offense.

    If convicted, some of the more common penalties for a first time DUI offense may include:

    • $1,000 fine
    • Up to 6 months in jail
    • DUI school
    • Loss of driver’s license for up to 6 months (you can usually obtain a work-related driving permit after completing the DUI school)
    • 55 hours of community service
    • Up to twelve months of reporting probation
    • Fines and court costs
    • Drug/alcohol evaluation, and follow any recommended treatment
    • Fines and court costs
    • Random urinalysis

    Several of your personal freedoms may also be at stake with a first-time DUI conviction, such as not being able to obtain a passport or professional license, rent a home, work with children, or purchase a firearm. Your car insurance rate may also increase. Make sure to explain all your circumstances to your DUI attorney.

    Hiring an Attorney to Fight Your DUI Offense

    Being charged with a DUI offense can be a frightening and uncertain time. Hiring an experienced DUI attorney who will fight for your rights and freedom is important.

    At Apfelbaum Law, we have extensive experience in criminal law. Our attorneys will answer your questions, explain your options, and provide you with the tools and resources you need to make informed decisions. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you with your legal matter.

  • 3 Reasons You Should Get a Postnuptial Agreement

    3 Reasons You Should Get a Postnuptial Agreement

    You may have missed your opportunity to draft and sign a prenuptial agreement, but you may still be able to create a postnuptial agreement.

    Unlike prenuptial agreements which are drafted before you are married, a postnuptial agreement is a legally binding contract drafted and signed after you and your spouse have legally wed.

    These agreements can be created for a variety of reasons, with their main purpose being to outline how each spouse’s assets will be divided in the event of a divorce or death. Like prenuptial agreements, postnuptial agreements often include numerous provisions for each spouse’s financial circumstances.

    3 Reasons to Sign a Postnuptial Agreement

    Oftentimes, spouses choose to enter into a postnuptial agreement to ensure their financial security in the event of divorce or death. But there are several additional reasons why couples choose to sign postnuptial agreements.

    #1: One or both spouses has a substantial amount of assets

    Like a prenuptial agreement, a postnuptial agreement can foster open and honest communication regarding each spouse’s finances and protect both parties. One of the reasons spouses sign a postnuptial agreement is if one or both spouses has a substantial amount of pre-marital assets or expects to inherit assets in the future.

    This type of agreement helps to ensure that even if the couple divorces, each spouse will exit the union with specific property they wish to protect.

    #2: You own a business

    These agreements are also a good idea for couples where one or both spouses own a business and wish to make provisions for income and assets earned throughout the lifespan of their marriage. For example, if you own a business and don’t have a pre- or post-nuptial agreement, the other spouse may be able to claim a share of the business or its assets or profits.

    #3: Never signed a prenuptial agreement

    Unfortunately, many people consider prenuptial agreements to be taboo or a precursor to divorce and proceed down the aisle without one. Later, they wish that they had a conversation about their financial situations prior to the wedding and had signed a prenuptial agreement. Fortunately, they can still sign a postnuptial agreement to achieve many of the same goals.

    Should You Draft a Postnuptial Agreement?

    Every marriage and financial situation is different. For spouses who did not sign a prenuptial agreement, it can be beneficial to sign a postnuptial agreement. These agreements help clarify and outline the division of finances and assets, should the marriage end through either divorce or death of one spouse.

    At Apfelbaum Law, we can help you and your spouse work together to create a postnuptial agreement that outlines and details your unique financial situation and needs. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you.

  • 3 Ways Prenuptial Agreements Can Benefit You

    3 Ways Prenuptial Agreements Can Benefit You

    You have probably heard of prenuptial agreements, and like many, you may feel uneasy about creating one with your soon-to-be spouse. But there are many benefits to creating one before saying your “I do’s”.

    Simply put, a prenuptial agreement is a legally binding document that is often referred to as a “prenup.” It details how both party’s financials and assets are dealt with and managed throughout the marriage and if the marriage comes to an end.

    3 Benefits of Prenuptial Agreements

    There are several misconceptions around this type of agreement, which is why you may have considered abandoning the idea of creating one. One of the most common misconceptions is that they only exist to protect the wealthier spouse from losing their assets and money after a divorce.

    However, that is not true at all. They exist to clarify both party’s finances and protect both spouses equally, which helps build trust and foster open and objective lines of communication prior to getting married.

    The following are a few ways prenuptial agreements can benefit you and your spouse.

    1) Builds Trust & Intimacy

    You may have heard that prenuptial agreements imply a lack of trust or confidence in the success of a marriage. This misconception leads many couples to avoid having an intimate conversation about their finances when they’re dating or engaged. It often does more harm than good and can lead to turmoil in the couple’s communication and relationship.

    In contrast, creating a prenuptial agreement can help build trust and intimacy. This is because it prompts both parties to have important discussions to ensure that finances are properly and respectfully handled during or after marriage.

    These agreements are a valuable tool for creating transparency and setting expectations for a successful marriage. Finances will change over time and are often the cause of many marital conflicts.

    Contrary to popular belief and mainstream ideology, prenuptial agreements indicate that you are invested in the long-term success of your marriage.

    2) Incorporates Your Unique Needs

    Prenuptial agreements can address a variety of financial aspects for both spouses, such as premarital property inheritance or spousal support.

    These agreements are flexible in their design to accommodate and take into account your unique and specific financial situation.

    You can be as detailed as you both see fit and can even incorporate instructions for what will happen to your finances if the other spouse passes.

    3) Freedom to Make Your Own Estate Plans

    Prenuptial agreements help minimize, if not eliminate, financial uncertainty and turmoil associated with the spouses’ estate(s) that can arise in the event of divorce or death. Prenuptial agreements provide each spouse the freedom to make their own estate plans as they see fit.

    For example, Florida estate laws provide for a surviving spouse to receive a minimum statutory share of assets, but a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement can waive this provision and specify what each spouse receives.

    Helping You Create the Right Prenuptial Agreement

    While it may feel awkward for some, there are several benefits that these legally binding documents create for both spouses. It encourages couples to have open communication about some of the most intimate details of their lives—their finances.

    To create the most beneficial prenuptial agreement for you and your partner, you should seek the help of a seasoned attorney who can ensure you include all the financial aspects you may have not thought about.

    At Apfelbaum Law, we have experience in family law, divorce, estate planning, and more. Contact us today to learn how we can help draft the best prenuptial agreement for your unique needs.

  • What Your Postnuptial Agreement Should Include

    What Your Postnuptial Agreement Should Include

    Most individuals are familiar with prenuptial agreements and may think that if they didn’t create and sign a prenuptial agreement before marriage, there is no way to legally outline their finances. But a postnuptial agreement is a similar, legally binding document that is drafted after saying “I do.”

    Discussing money and its role in your marriage, or planning for if the marriage ends, can make you uncomfortable, but it often pays off tenfold. By creating and signing a postnuptial agreement, both spouses can better financially protect themselves.

    You and your spouse can enter into a postnuptial agreement after you are legally married and have fiduciary duties to one each other.

    2 Items Commonly Included in Postnuptial Agreements

    Most postnuptial agreements include the same types of provisions that a prenuptial agreement would include, as governed by Florida law. The only difference is that postnuptial agreements are entered into after marriage.

    Below are the two most common items spouses incorporate into their postnuptial agreements.

    Division of Property, Assets, and Debts

    Your agreement should include documentation of all assets, income, inheritances, gifts, debts, and other liabilities. One of the most common provisions included in postnuptial agreements is how each of these items will be divided if the marriage ends or if a spouse passes.

    As a marriage progresses, the spouses are likely to incur a variety of debts, from mortgage loans to credit cards. In a postnuptial agreement, the spouses have the opportunity to outline how best to deal with them in the event of a divorce.

    Spousal Support Payments

    Each marriage functions differently, and in many cases, one spouse may stop working to manage the household duties and children while the other spouse works to financially support the family.

    In the event the marriage ends in divorce, many postnuptial agreements include an outline for spousal support payments. This is commonly referred to as alimony and provides financial support for the spouse who was not earning income, or was earning less income, during the marriage.

    Helping You Draft a Postnuptial Agreement

    Just because you and your spouse may be contemplating a postnuptial agreement does not mean that you are also contemplating divorce. These agreements are designed to help spouses clearly define their wishes for property, assets, and other financial matters.

    At Apfelbaum Law, we provide legal services, including drafting postnuptial agreements, throughout the Treasure Coast. Our attorneys will answer your questions, explain your options, and provide you with the tools and resources you need to make informed decisions. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help with your postnuptial agreement and more.

  • What Happens if Your Spouse is Hiding Assets During a Divorce?

    What Happens if Your Spouse is Hiding Assets During a Divorce?

    Aside from the emotional challenges, there are many uncertainties surrounding a divorce. One of the most worrisome is how assets will be divided. Not knowing what your financial future holds can unintentionally bring out the worst in people and may even cause them to attempt to hide assets.

    There are several reasons why divorcing spouses may try to keep certain assets hidden. Primarily, this behavior stems from trying to ensure that they will not lose particular assets that they don’t want to risk losing. Other times. they may inadvertently or deliberately be less forthcoming about their entire financial portfolio.

    Although hiding assets during a divorce is not a criminal offense, there can be several serious legal consequences that can come along with doing so.

    3 Legal Penalties of Hiding Assets During a Divorce

    In Florida, equitable division of assets is the law in divorce cases, though that does not always equate to a 50/50 split. Hiding assets or not disclosing an accurate portrayal of each asset and its value during a divorce is a violation of the law’s requirement

    If it is discovered that you or your spouse has not been honest about one’s assets, here are a few penalties that you may face.

    #1: Potential Asset Reallocation

    In the State of Florida, either spouse can provide evidence to the court supporting why they should receive additional assets. Depending on the ruling, or if additional assets are discovered, there is a greater potential for asset reallocation. This may mean that you could be rewarded with a larger amount of your marital assets as compensation.

    If a spouse is hiding assets, they could be asked to cover the cost of your legal fees and even any associated costs, such as an accountant, if you hired one.

    #2: Found in Contempt of Court

    The spouse who is hiding assets during the divorce could be found in contempt of court, which is the act of intentionally obstructing or defying the court’s administration of justice and violating the law. The judge will determine whether they are in criminal or civil contempt depending on their actions and the court’s findings. However, a civil contempt of court judgment is more common but can still potentially result in fines or even jail time if the Court were to so decide.

    #3: Incur Perjury Charges

    Perjury is when you are found to have lied under oath, usually Court testimony. Therefore, if a spouse materially lies about the amount or nature of their assets, they could potentially face a criminal charge of perjury, which could subject them to criminal prosecution.

    Protecting Your Assets During a Divorce

    Though emotions may be heightened when you are going through a divorce, it is never a good idea to try to hide assets, as it can result in a variety of legal challenges. A good offensive approach is to keep a running record of all assets, liabilities, and money from the start of your marriage.

    However, not many individuals go into a marriage imagining they will be dividing their assets in a divorce down the road. In most cases, it is best to hire an experienced Florida family law attorney who specializes in divorce who can help you through each step of the process.

  • The Benefits of Mediation in a Divorce

    The Benefits of Mediation in a Divorce

    Navigating the facets of a divorce can be emotionally and mentally challenging. The process can be anywhere from cooperative and efficient to tumultuous and drawn out, depending on the circumstances of the case and the attitudes and decisions of the parties.

    Most people assume that a divorce will inevitably be acrimonious; it can be, depending on how you and/or your spouse choose to manage it.

    If you are getting a divorce or have been contemplating getting a divorce, you have options that can make it a more efficient and less tumultuous process, such as mediation, if both parties agree to it, or the court orders it, which is quite common.

    Understanding Mediation

    A mediator is a qualified individual (usually an attorney) who is a neutral third party whose job it is to assist the parties to a potential settlement of some or all of their issues. Often, they function as a sort of diplomat, shuttling offers and information between the parties. If an agreement is reached, the terms are put in writing, everyone signs it, and the judge will sign an order requiring the parties to abide by the terms. This way, the judge can enforce the agreement, if necessary.

    Divorce mediation can help divorcing couples settle contested issues, encourage communication, and much more.

    3 Benefits of Mediation in a Divorce

    If you are going through or contemplating a divorce, you will want to consider mediation as your first choice because of its many potential benefits. The following are three substantial benefits as to why you should consider mediation before trying to battle your divorce in court.

    #1: Your Children Are Prioritized

    If you have children together, mediation is exponentially more effective and beneficial for your children. Unlike in court, where the judge will decide a child’s living situation, a mediator will take your children’s needs into account and work with all parties to evaluate what would be in the child’s best interest.

    #2: Mediation Does Not Affect Any Later Court Hearings on Issues You Don’t Agree To

    Other than in very exceptional circumstances, what is said in mediation is private. A party is prohibited from saying things such as, “they offered X at mediation, so make them give it now.” For any issue that goes to court, you are free to argue for whatever outcome you want, and what was said in mediation is not allowed to be discussed.

    #3: Enhanced Communication

    Mediation works to foster open and effective communication between the divorcing spouses. This, in turn, means that you and your soon-to-be ex-spouse get to make the decisions rather than the  judge, who will never know your case as well as you do.

    Communication is facilitated by the mediator, who works with both parties to help them come to a fair agreement that makes sense for all parties involved. Ultimately, mediation can allow for successful communication and negotiation of your unique issues.

    Successfully Mediate Your Divorce

    Having an objective, unbiased third party to mediate your divorce provides many benefits and can result in an outcome that both sides can better live with and will likely be far less expensive than going to court. The right attorney can help you through the mediation process and provide you with the confidence you need to gain the best and fairest outcome possible.

    At Apfelbaum Law, we provide you with objective support and legal counsel to ensure your rights are upheld as you navigate this next chapter of your life. Contact us today to learn how we can help you through your divorce and the mediation process.

  • 3 Tips to Help Your Divorce Go as Smoothly as Possible

    3 Tips to Help Your Divorce Go as Smoothly as Possible

    No one intends on getting a divorce when they say their I do’s, but life happens and things change—rapidly or over time. Bringing a marriage to an end can bring a variety of emotions to the surface, and you may begin to feel like you are navigating uncharted waters alone.

    But there are a few things you can do to help make it a smooth process.

    3 Tips for a Smoother Divorce

    Going through a divorce is often an emotionally challenging process for the spouses and children. Equipping yourself with the best tips and tools available can make a huge difference in how smoothly your divorce can go.

    Each action you take throughout the divorce process is often evaluated and scrutinized, which can quickly create an even more tumultuous environment. To help make your divorce process feel less like a roller coaster and run more smoothly, consider the following three tips.

    1. Evaluate Your Financials

    You have likely been working together when it comes to financial situations, but a divorce likely will change that. Navigating a new financial terrain often causes stress for one or both spouses.

    Take a moment to evaluate your finances (income sources, properties, investments, assets, debts etc.) that were acquired and incurred  during your marriage. This can help with the division of assets and assets and more.

    2. Keep Your Social Media Posts About your Spouse to a Minimum

    Going through a divorce can be challenging enough without the added commentary or court of public opinion on social media. While it may feel good to vent your immediate feelings on your social media channels, it is likely going to be in your best interest to write them down on paper and journal them, or employ professional help, if that is appropriate. This will help shield you from outside commentary and prevent posts and photos made in the heat of emotion from coming back to bite you.

    3. Hire an Experienced Divorce Attorney

    Whether your spouse has hired an attorney or not, it is in your best interest to hire one for yourself. An experienced divorce attorney can help keep things in perspective and remain an objective third party throughout the process concerning your case. They will be able to provide you with valuable advice and ensure that you understand your rights and obligations and make informed choices about what is in your best interest.

    Finding the Right Divorce Attorney for You

    Navigating every detail of divorce can be challenging given the heightened emotions of both parties. Having a strategy in place is beneficial and can make your divorce more amicable, or at least go more smoothly.

    While two individuals could create an agreement together, clearly communicating and dividing assets and debts in a divorce can get sticky. To help make the process move as efficiently as possible, you should hire an experienced divorce attorney.

    At Apfelbaum Law, we have extensive experience in family law, divorce, and much more. Our attorneys will answer your questions, explain your options, and provide you with the tools and resources you need to make informed decisions. Contact us today for a consultation. We want you to begin this new chapter of your life in the most efficient and least traumatic way possible for you and your loved ones.

  • 3 Estate Planning Recommendations to Avoid Probate

    3 Estate Planning Recommendations to Avoid Probate

    While the loss of a loved one is an inevitable part of life, it is not often at the forefront of most people’s minds. In many cases, individuals don’t consider or plan for the loss of a loved one, which can result in many challenges when a loved one passes away.

    Probate is one of the most common complexities that can arise from a lack of planning for the loss of a loved one. While the probate process can be challenging and cumbersome, it can be avoided with proper estate planning.

    If you want to avoid having loved ones or your estate enter into probate, it is important to understand what probate is, how it works, and what recommendations you may be able to follow.

    Understanding the Basics of Probate

    If you are unfamiliar with what probate is, you are not alone. In short, probate is a legal process that distributes the assets and property of an individual who passes away.

    Generally, an estate executor or an attorney will generally initiate the process, and a probate court will validate the will of the deceased individual (if a will exists) and authorize the executor to distribute the assets accordingly and to the appropriate beneficiaries.  There are, however, many considerations that need to be taken when initiating probate, as well as specific scenarios that may vary the type of probate you may be able to file.  A Florida probate lawyer would ask you the necessary questions to get a better understanding of your situation and advice you on the various processes.

    3 Estate Planning Recommendations

    While the probate process may seem cut and dry, without the proper planning it can become quite complex. The following are three estate planning recommendations that may help you avoid probate.

    #1: Establish a Living Trust

    Assets or property held in a trust are controlled by a trustee and are not a part of your estate upon death. The trustee, who controls the trust, will be obligated to distribute it according to the terms of the trust agreement.

    For this reason, creating a revocable living trust may be a good option for you to avoid an estate being subject to probate. This type of trust is also beneficial because you can create provisions that allow you to modify or cancel the terms at any given time. The idea is to place valuable assets in the trust and assign them a beneficiary upon your demise.

    #2: Consider Joint Ownership

    This may seem a little overwhelming at first if you aren’t sure who you can trust, but by considering joint ownership with right of survivorship for valuable assets and property, you can avoid going into probate. Whether it is a spouse, significant other, relative, or trusted friend, having someone else as a joint owner helps ensure that the property will automatically be transferred to the other person’s ownership in the event that one of the owners passes away. The key part of joint ownership is properly setting up the property title to include both owners and with right of survivorship.  It is, however, extremely important to consider the potential liability exposure on your asset and yourself when adding a joint owner.

    #3: Creating Transfer-Upon-Death Accounts

    You have likely heard of trusts and joint ownership, but creating a transfer-upon-death account is a less commonly known option that can help you avoid probate. These types of accounts work by appointing a beneficiary who will be the designated recipient of the funds in the account upon the account owner’s death. These accounts are often used to protect financial accounts from entering into probate. Generally, bank accounts, investment accounts, retirement accounts, and life insurances, allow you to designate beneficiaries who would receive this asset upon the owner’s death.

    Helping You Avoid the Complexities of Probate

    While the probate process may seem fairly straightforward, it can be highly complex, slow, costly, and public. By properly planning how yours or a loved one’s estate and assets should be distributed upon death, you can avoid the hassle of probate altogether. Notwithstanding the above recommendations, it is imperative that you consult with an attorney to evaluate the potential benefits and risks that each option may have on you and your assets.

    At Apfelbaum Law, we understand that preserving and memorializing yours or your loved one’s wishes is important. We strive to ensure that your wishes are ultimately carried out by counseling you and drafting wills, trusts, powers of attorney, health directives, and more. Contact us today to properly plan, assist, and guide you through the administration of an estate after a person passes away.

  • How to Reduce the Stress of Co-Parenting During the Holidays

    How to Reduce the Stress of Co-Parenting During the Holidays

    With the many festivities underway from shopping to holiday parties to family gatherings, the holiday season is often a stressful time of the year. If you are separated or divorced, managing your child custody or co-parenting schedule during this time of year can make it even more difficult.

    There are several things you will have to navigate when you are in separate households, such as:

    • Scheduling
    • Meeting the expectations of extended family
    • Lingering tensions
    • Trying to spend as much time as possible with your children

    Just because you are separated or divorced does not automatically mean the holidays have to be a tumultuous time. With proper planning and by setting clear expectations early on, this time of the year can be managed.

    3 Co-Parenting Tips for a Stress-Free Holiday

    Below are a few healthy holiday co-parenting tips to help reduce stress for you and your children and best navigate co-parenting during the holiday season.

    #1: Create a Holiday Co-Parenting Plan

    Florida parenting plans many times  contain specfic provisions for holiday time sharing. However, you may have created that plan when the kids were younger, and they may have aged out of it, as their needs have changed. Also, circumstances in a particular holiday season (visiting relatives, travel plans, etc.) may cause two parents to agree to a temporary modification.

    You may need to make a few adjustments to your co-parenting holiday schedule to best accommodate all parties involved. You can revise your holiday parenting plan with the help of a qualified attorney who can help modify the schedule or help you create one if you don’t have a plan already in place.

    #2: Communicate About Gift Giving

    It can be easy to slip into a habit of giving your children excessive amounts of gifts, trying to make up for what you feel they have lost. However, you should try not to go overboard with the gift-giving because it may seem like you are trying to compete with your co-parent for your child’s affection.

    Both co-parents should make an effort to clearly communicate about gift-giving and relay these boundaries to both sets of in-laws, too. Boundaries may include:

    • The number of gifts to give
    • Any money limits
    • Items that are off-limits (phones, gaming systems, etc.)

    #3: Be Flexible

    Holiday celebrations are meant for spending time with your family, which can trigger unexpected feelings after a separation or divorce that haven’t surfaced in a while. You and/or your children may have an urge to act out or begin feeling lost—especially if it is the first holiday after separating.

    Acknowledging that things are different and remaining flexible with your co-parent can be exponentially beneficial for all parties involved.

    Your kids are likely not getting to do exactly what they want and neither are you or your co-parent. But it is important to be flexible and make compromises to make it a more pleasant holiday for everyone now and in the long run.

    Stress-Free Holiday Co-Parenting

    Co-parenting during the holidays is often challenging, and navigating this time can be difficult. However, with the proper advance planning, you and your children can still enjoy the holidays stress-free.

    At Apfelbaum Law, we provide a variety of legal services throughout the Treasure Coast of Florida, including divorce and family law legal services. Contact us today to learn how we can help create a holiday co-parenting plan for yours and your family’s unique needs.