Co-Parenting Tips for Divorced Parents
November 15, 2023

Divorce is a significant life transition that affects not only the spouses involved but also their children. One of the most critical aspects of maintaining stability and well-being for children after a divorce is successful co-parenting. Co-parenting involves both parents working together to raise their children, despite the end of their romantic relationship. At Deppman Law, PLC, we understand the importance of effective co-parenting and offer the following tips to help divorced parents navigate this challenge with grace.

 

Prioritize Open and Clear Communication

 

Effective communication is key to successful co-parenting. While it may be difficult, it's essential to maintain open and respectful communication with the other parent. This includes discussing important decisions about your children and keeping each other informed about their well-being, school, and extracurricular activities. By ensuring that both parents are on the same page, children can feel more secure and supported as they navigate the changes brought about by divorce.

 

Focus on Consistency and Predictability

 

Consistency between households provides stability for children after a divorce. Establishing consistent routines, rules, and expectations between both parents' homes can help children feel more secure and reduce the stress of transitioning between two households. Additionally, maintaining a predictable schedule for visitation and other co-parenting arrangements can help children adjust to their new living situation more easily.

 

Keep Children's Best Interests at the Forefront

 

Remembering that your primary focus should be the well-being and best interests of your children is critical. When making co-parenting decisions, consider how they will impact your children, both in the short and long term. Emphasizing a child-centered approach can help you and your co-parent make decisions that prioritize the emotional, physical, and psychological needs of your children.

 

Seek Professional Support When Needed

 

There is no doubt that co-parenting after divorce can be challenging, and it's okay to seek professional support when necessary. Family therapists, mediators, or counselors specializing in co-parenting issues can provide guidance and support for both parents as they adjust to their new roles. At Deppman Law, PLC, we understand the emotional and logistical challenges of co-parenting, and we are committed to helping our clients find the resources and support they need to navigate this process successfully.

 

Contact Deppman Law, PLC for Guidance and Support

 

If you're facing challenges related to co-parenting after divorce, Deppman Law, PLC is here to help. Our experienced family law attorneys understand the complexities of co-parenting arrangements and are dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized legal guidance to our clients. Whether you need assistance with custody agreements, parenting plans, or navigating other issues, we are here to support you throughout the entire process. Contact Deppman Law, PLC today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward building a positive co-parenting environment for your children.


June 20, 2025
Estate planning may sound like something only the wealthy or elderly need to worry about, but in truth, it’s an essential part of life planning for every adult—regardless of age, wealth, or family structure. Whether you're a small business owner in Montpelier, a retiree in Middlebury, or a young parent in Burlington, having a clear and legally sound estate plan can protect your loved ones, preserve your assets, and provide peace of mind. In Vermont, as in most states, there are five core documents that form the foundation of a comprehensive estate plan. Each plays a specific role in ensuring your wishes are respected and your affairs are handled according to your preferences—both during your lifetime and after your death. Here’s a closer look at the five essential estate planning documents every Vermonter should have: 1. Last Will and Testament A will is the cornerstone of any estate plan. It outlines how you want your assets to be distributed after your death and names an executor to manage your estate. If you have minor children, your will is also the document where you nominate a guardian for them. Without a will, your estate will be distributed according to Vermont’s intestacy laws—which may not reflect your wishes. This process can be time-consuming, emotionally draining for your family, and lead to unintended outcomes. Even if your estate is modest, a will ensures clarity and can help your loved ones avoid unnecessary legal complications during an already difficult time. 2. Durable Power of Attorney A durable power of attorney (POA) allows you to name someone to handle your financial and legal affairs if you become incapacitated. This could include paying your bills, managing investments, filing taxes, or making other important decisions on your behalf. In Vermont, a POA remains in effect even if you become mentally or physically unable to manage your own affairs—hence the term durable. Without a POA, your loved ones may have to go through a costly and time-consuming court process to gain the authority to act on your behalf. Choosing a trusted agent now can spare your family considerable stress later. 3. Advance Directive for Health Care Also known as a health care proxy or medical power of attorney, an advance directive allows you to appoint someone to make medical decisions for you if you are unable to do so yourself. This includes decisions about life-sustaining treatments, organ donation, and end-of-life care. Vermont has a specific form for advance directives, and completing one ensures your health care wishes are known and legally binding. Without this document, important medical decisions may fall to someone who doesn’t know your preferences—or disagreements among family members could create unnecessary tension. 4. HIPAA Authorization The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) protects the privacy of your medical records, but it can also make it difficult for loved ones to access information in an emergency. A HIPAA authorization allows you to name individuals who can access your medical records and communicate with your doctors. This is especially important if you have multiple family members who may need to coordinate your care or advocate on your behalf. Without this document, your loved ones may be left in the dark at a time when fast, informed decisions are critical. 5. Revocable Living Trust (Optional, But Strongly Recommended) While not every Vermonter needs a revocable living trust, it can be a powerful tool—especially if you own real estate, have a blended family, or want to avoid probate. A revocable living trust allows you to transfer ownership of your assets into a trust during your lifetime, with instructions for how they should be managed and distributed. You retain control of the assets while you're alive, and after your death, they can be distributed without going through the Vermont probate process. A trust also provides greater privacy, flexibility, and control, and can be particularly helpful for managing out-of-state property or planning for incapacity. Take Control of Your Legacy Estate planning isn’t just about preparing for the unexpected—it’s about making intentional decisions that protect your family, safeguard your assets, and reflect your values. At Deppman Law PLC, we help individuals and families throughout Vermont create customized estate plans that meet their specific needs—no matter how simple or complex. Whether you’re starting from scratch or need to update existing documents, we’re here to guide you through every step with care and clarity. Contact Benj or Lesley today to schedule a consultation and begin building your estate plan with confidence.
May 18, 2025
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