The landscape of family law is constantly shifting. From the rise of remote hearings to the way co-parenting is structured, how we handle divorce today looks very different than it did twenty years ago. In this episode of the Drama-Free Divorce Podcast, host Cary Jacobson sits down with Kirk Stange, Founder and President of Stange Law Firm, PC.
With over two decades of experience and a firm spanning nine states, Kirk provides a unique, “big picture” perspective on what families are struggling with most and how the legal profession can better serve them.
The Current Trends in Family Law
One of the most significant shifts Kirk has observed is the move toward more streamlined, less litigious processes. However, despite these changes, many clients still enter the process with misconceptions. Whether it’s how assets are divided or how custody is determined, Kirk emphasizes that early legal education is the best defense against a high-conflict divorce.
Strategies for Reducing Conflict in Divorce
At Jacobson Family Law, our mission is to promote a drama-free process. Kirk shares that the key to reducing conflict in divorce is setting realistic expectations from day one. When clients understand the likely legal outcomes early on, they are less likely to engage in expensive, emotionally draining battles over unattainable goals.
Advice for Those Starting the Process
If you are just beginning to consider separation, Kirk’s advice is simple: avoid the “early mistakes” that create long-term complications. This includes:
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Moving out of the family home without a legal strategy.
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Making major financial changes before filing.
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Allowing emotions to dictate legal decisions.
Sustainability for the Legal Professional
This episode also dives into a topic often ignored: attorney burnout. Managing a multi-state firm has taught Kirk that for a lawyer to be a compassionate advocate, they must also prioritize their own mental health and sustainability.