Military service is demanding work. Service members have to put their lives on the line. They sacrifice their personal freedoms to preserve the freedoms of others. Service members often have to move frequently during their service. Their families generally travel with...
Practical And Peaceful Divorce Solutions For Hawaiʻi Residents
Mediation
Negotiating a divorce settlement with a difficult spouse
Negotiating a divorce settlement is rarely easy, but the process can become especially frustrating when one’s spouse is difficult, combative or simply annoying. Whether the behavior is passive-aggressive, controlling or simply immature, staying focused and strategic...
3 tips for coparenting after divorce
Getting a divorce is the end of a marriage, not a parenting relationship. Parents who are going through divorce will need to continue to work with the other parent while raising their children. This is not a novel concept. Families have been working through the impact...
Are child wishes considered in Hawaii custody cases?
Child custody cases can be complex and emotional. In Hawaii, courts aim to make decisions that prioritize the child's best interest. One important factor in these decisions is the child's own wishes. Understanding Hawaii’s custody laws Hawaii follows the Uniform Child...
Can I file for divorce while deployed?
Filing for divorce while deployed may sound impossible, but it can be done. Military service doesn't stop you from taking legal steps, even from overseas. You just need to understand how the process works and what tools are available to help. Deployment doesn’t...
Can a child refuse visitation in Hawai‘i?
When custody and visitation are at play, children often express strong preferences. But in Hawai‘i, does a child have the legal right to refuse visits with a parent? The answer hinges on multiple considerations, including the child's age, emotional maturity, and the...
Is Hawaii a community property state?
No, Hawaii is not a community property state. This means that when a couple decides to divorce, the laws regarding property division are different from those in community property states. Equitable distribution explained In Hawaii, asset and debt division follows the...
How are Thrift Savings Plans divided?
When divorce happens in Hawaii, dividing a Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) requires an understanding of both state and federal laws. Military and federal employees contribute to these retirement accounts, making them an important asset in divorce proceedings. Understanding...
What expenses does child support include?
Child support in Hawai'i ensures that parents provide financial assistance for their children's basic needs and well-being. The state uses the Income Shares Model to determine the amount, factoring in both parents' income to maintain the child's standard of living....
How stepparent adoption affects a child’s legal status and rights
Stepparent adoption creates a strong legal connection between the child and their stepparent. This bond brings stability and security to the family. In Hawaii, the adoption process also changes the child’s legal rights and family relationships in important ways. What...