Minneapolis Business & Real Estate Law Blog

Adjusting to single parenting doesn't have to be too stressful

On behalf of Patrick Burns of Burns & Hansen, P.A. on Monday, May 6, 2019.

One of the biggest changes that parents have to go through when they divorce is becoming accustomed to being a single parent. This can be difficult because they will have to do everything on their own when they have the children. Fortunately, adjusting to single parenthood in Minnesota doesn't have to be a stressful experience.

Remember that as you are trying to adjust, your children are doing the same thing. Helping your children must be a priority as everyone learns how to move forward with the new way of life.

What men must know when heading toward divorce

On behalf of Patrick Burns of Burns & Hansen, P.A. on Wednesday, May 1, 2019.

Your wife files for divorce. You know some of the stereotypes about divorce all too well. For instance, you have heard that women are more likely to get custody of the kids, while men -- like yourself -- are more likely to pay child support. Due to differences in the workplace, you also think you're more likely to pay alimony, although you may still have a better transition to life after divorce since you can support yourself with your career.

First things first: Don't put too much weight in stereotypes. Much of what is noted above is somewhat outdated. Men and women are more equal than ever before in the workplace. Both can often support themselves. At the same time, men and women are more equal in child custody cases, as well, with courts now attempting to give out joint custody to keep them both involved with the kids.

Make a plan for pets when you divorce

On behalf of Patrick Burns of Burns & Hansen, P.A. on Wednesday, April 3, 2019.

People often call pets their "fur babies," which makes it easy to understand that these animals are members of the family. Many people don't automatically think about what is going to happen with pets when a marriage dissolves. This can actually be a contentious area of the divorce.

Many factors go into where a pet will live during the split and after a divorce. Unfortunately, pets are considered personal property in Minnesota. This makes it even more difficult to determine who is going to get to keep them. For many, working out something prior to going to court can be beneficial.

Help keep your children protected when your marriage ends

On behalf of Patrick Burns of Burns & Hansen, P.A. on Monday, March 25, 2019.

The major life upheaval that comes with a divorce impacts everyone in the family, including the children. The impacts that a divorce can have on the kids are considerable. They might suffer from stress or behavioral issues.

Throughout the process and long after, parents have to do what they can to protect the kids from the negative fall out. There are many ways that this can happen.

Can your neighbor sue you if your tree blocks their view?

On behalf of Patrick Burns of Burns & Hansen, P.A. on Monday, March 4, 2019.

Trees on a property can substantially contribute to the property's overall value. Depending on the placement, species and age of a tree, mature hardwoods can potentially increase your property value by several thousand dollars. That is due to a combination of the aesthetic value of trees, the way that shade increases your enjoyment of the property or decreases cooling bills in the summer, and the theoretical value of the timber.

Sometimes, people purchase property specifically because of the trees on the land. Other times, people invest in their properties by planting trees that will eventually grow into something large and majestic. It is common for new trees to go in along property lines. Unfortunately, property owners don't always account for the eventual expansion of the canopy of leaves the tree produces or the root system.

Mediation can help protect your business in a divorce

On behalf of Patrick Burns of Burns & Hansen, P.A. on Thursday, February 7, 2019.

You poured your heart and soul into your company. You have every reason to want to protect it. Most people who start their own businesses invest significant amounts of their own time and money into making something financially successful. All of that investment can pay off with enough hard work, allowing you to support yourself and your family with the business you created.

Unfortunately, your business is an asset that could be subject to division in the event of a divorce. Depending on the circumstances of the creation of your company, your spouse may receive some portion of the business in the divorce.

5 reasons why you shouldn’t be afraid to divorce

On behalf of Patrick Burns of Burns & Hansen, P.A. on Friday, February 1, 2019.

If the thought of divorce is inspiring fear, you are not alone. In general, society places a stigma on divorce and a higher value on people who remain married. This creates a lot of pressure to stay in an unhealthy marriage. However, divorce is stressful enough without these societal pressures. It can change your life in completely unknown and unexpected ways.

Even though divorce seems very scary, there are many benefits to ending a bad marriage. Here are a few reasons why you shouldn't be scared of divorce.

Why might divorce over 60 have increased complications?

On behalf of Patrick Burns of Burns & Hansen, P.A. on Thursday, January 3, 2019.

It is becoming increasingly common for spouses over the age of 60 to decide to file for divorce. There are many reasons for this, but a big factor is the way in which a person's lifestyle changes after retirement. Retirement can vastly alter the dynamic of a marriage, and, as a result, a couple may come to the conclusion that they are no longer compatible.

If you are considering filing for a divorce as a person over 60 in the state of Minnesota, it is important to note that divorce over 60 can potentially bring complications. By taking the time to understand the reasons for these complications now, you will be able to manage your expectations of the divorce and plan for any potential hurdles. The following are some of the most common reasons why a divorce over 60 can become more complex than a typical divorce.

Tips for social media use and child custody

On behalf of Patrick Burns of Burns & Hansen, P.A. on Monday, December 31, 2018.

Parents make decisions on a daily basis that can impact their children. One series of daily yet momentous decisions involves what they share on social media. While websites like Facebook and Instagram can be great ways to keep up with friends and loved ones, you have to think carefully about what you are sharing.

There are several ways that social media can impact a co-parenting relationship. Considering these before you log into these websites is crucial.

Many changes to new tax laws affect divorcing couples

On behalf of Patrick Burns of Burns & Hansen, P.A. on Wednesday, December 5, 2018.

Are you awaiting a final judgment of divorce? Or maybe you are only beginning to consider ending your marriage. Regardless, the implications of the new tax laws take effect in January 2019. Some projections have the government taking in nearly $7 billion in the next decade due to the implementation of these laws.

What does that mean to divorcing Minneapolis couples? Like others around the nation, the implications are considerable and could potentially lengthen your divorce negotiations. Below is information of which all divorcing couples need be aware.