Genetic research intended to reveal markers about hereditary illnesses has apparently had an unexpected — and profound — impact on some families. According to data from the National Health Service (NHS) in England and Scotland, 10% of genetic tests reveal that the individual tested and their father are not a genetic biological match. After 220,000 screenings meant to identify the potential for Alzheimer’s and cancer in families, NHS officials find themselves in an increasingly awkward position. The genetic testing is…

When you choose to have children with your spouse, you probably don’t think about what will happen if you eventually end your marriage. Most couples conceive their children when they still foresee spending the rest of their life with their spouse. Unfortunately, circumstances and people can change, leaving you worried about how divorce is going to affect your relationship with your children. The good news for people in Colorado considering divorce is that the state typically wants to protect the…

For too many people, co-parenting tends to be fraught with frustration and communication breakdowns. For those who are annoyed the other parent isn’t responding to your texts or calls, that lack of cooperation probably highlights the reason you are not together. Stuff like that can also be a huge emotional trigger. But at the end of the day, both of you want to be excellent parents who follow through. Whether that means knowing a child’s activity schedule or being on…

It’s best if you and your spouse can agree on parental responsibilities as you negotiate your divorce, but sometimes that doesn’t happen. What happens then? The first step in Colorado is to file a petition for allocation of parental responsibilities as well as a parenting plan. These plans explain which spouse should be the primary care parent and how you plan to divvy up the decision-making responsibilities. Parenting plans Again, it’s best if you and your spouse can agree on…

Divorce can mean clearing one hurdle after another, and the first holiday season after a split can be a major hurdle for separated parents. New schedule adjustments and holiday stress can make the season feel overwhelming. A thought-out parenting plan can take some of the pressure off both parents during the holidays, and help everyone adjust to the new normal. Some things to include: Coordinating schedules Determine where kids are going to be, and for how long. Discuss any potential trips…