Tapp Law FirmTapp Law Firm2026-10-02T13:00:26Zhttps://www.tapplaw.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1404702/2025/05/cropped-TLF-site-icon-32x32.pngOn Behalf of Tapp Law Firm<![CDATA[Can a nonbiological LGBTQ parent get custody rights in Arkansas?]]>https://www.tapplaw.com/?p=509192026-09-24T15:26:40Z2026-10-02T13:00:26ZWhat legal steps can help protect parental rights?
If the law does not recognize a parent who did not give birth to the child, it may be harder to keep custody or visitation rights. Depending on the family's situation, helpful legal steps may include:
Second-parent adoption
A court order recognizing parental rights
Estate planning documents that support childcare decisions
These steps do not all create the same rights. Still, they may help protect the parent-child relationship and reduce future disputes.
What happens if legal parentage is missing?
Helping raise a child does create legal custody rights under Arkansas law. If the other parent never adopted the child, and the law does not otherwise recognize that parent. The parent may face serious limits during a breakup, divorce, or emergency.
This problem may become worse if the biological parent dies or another relative challenges that parent's role. Broader family protections for LGBTQ parents also reflect why formal legal steps often matter before conflict begins.
The legal gap often becomes clear during a crisis
A non-biological parent can feel secure in daily life and still face serious limits when a medical emergency, breakup or death suddenly puts legal authority in question. That is when the absence of an adoption or court order matters most. A family lawyer helps non biological parents identify those gaps and strengthen their parental rights in LGBTQ family disputes before a crisis turns them into a custody fight.]]>On Behalf of Tapp Law Firm<![CDATA[How can a covenant marriage affect an Arkansas divorce?]]>https://www.tapplaw.com/?p=509662026-09-24T15:22:58Z2026-09-27T17:00:59ZHow is covenant marriage different?
You cannot enter a covenant marriage by accident or default. Before entering a covenant marriage, couples have to go through counseling together and sign a declaration stating they see marriage as a lifelong commitment. They must agree to take reasonable steps, including counseling, to preserve their marriage if difficulties arise.
This ultimately means that while someone in a regular marriage can seek divorce under the general provisions in Arkansas law, someone in a covenant marriage can only divorce for the narrower reasons established by the Covenant Marriage Act. After obtaining the counseling required by law, a spouse can only end the marriage due to:
The other spouse’s adultery
The other spouse is guilty of a felony or “infamous” crime
Physical or sexual abuse of the filing spouse or their child
Living separately, informally, for a continuous period of two years
Judicial separations generally impose a two-year waiting period for couples without minor children and two and a half years for couples with them. The advantage of seeking a Temporary Order on a pending divorce is that the court can address many of the same practical issues that would need to be addressed in a divorce, including possession of the marital home, custody of the children, parenting time and financial support.
In other words, even if both spouses agree to end their marriage, a covenant marriage cannot be ended unless one of the legally permitted grounds is established. It will likely take additional time and require more documentation than a standard divorce, as a result. Legal guidance can help you determine your options and take the necessary steps to protect your family and your future while the process is in motion.]]>On Behalf of Tapp Law Firm<![CDATA[Addressing extended family dynamics in parenting plans]]>https://www.tapplaw.com/?p=509222026-09-24T15:19:03Z2026-09-24T15:19:03ZMany children have close bonds with extended family on both sides. Grandparents may provide regular childcare, cousins may feel like siblings and holiday traditions often involve multiple generations. After a separation or divorce, preserving these meaningful relationships can provide children with continuity during a time of significant change.
A parenting plan provides an opportunity for co-parents to address the important role that grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and other extended family members play in a child's life. By discussing these relationships during the parenting plan creation or modification process, parents can work to minimize a risk of tension, misunderstandings and/or concerns unique to their family dynamic.
All the things that have to be kept in mind
To start, parents should potentially consider how family gatherings, birthdays and major holidays will be handled. If one parent has a longstanding annual reunion or holiday celebration, their parenting plan may account for those traditions while ensuring that their child also has meaningful opportunities to spend time with the other side of the family. Additionally, if grandparents or other relatives regularly assist with school pickups, childcare or extracurricular activities, parents may wish to identify who is authorized to transport the child and under what circumstances. Clear expectations can prevent confusion and promote a child's safety.Parenting plans can also outline expectations concerning communication. Children often benefit from maintaining regular contact with extended family members, even when they are staying with the other parent. Reasonable opportunities for phone calls, video chats or family visits may help preserve those important relationships.Finally, if there are legitimate concerns involving a relative's behavior, substance abuse, domestic violence or other safety issues, those concerns can be addressed directly when developing a parenting plan. Every family has unique traditions and relationships. Taking the time to address extended family dynamics in a parenting plan can reduce conflict, strengthen support systems and provide children with a greater sense of stability.]]>On Behalf of Tapp Law Firm<![CDATA[Factors the court considers when making custody arrangements]]>https://www.tapplaw.com/?p=509152026-07-24T14:59:48Z2026-07-26T14:59:16ZFocusing on the child's best interests
When the court does this, the goal is usually to determine what would be best for the child. The court will consider many different factors, such as:
The child's age
The parental roles during the marriage
The parents' mental and physical health
The parents' ability to care for the child
Each parent's living situation
Whether there is any evidence of abuse
Whether there is evidence of drug or substance use
The child's preference, depending on their age
The child's mental and physical health
The child's connections to the local community, such as their school
The roles of extended family members
These are just a few examples, and every case will be unique. But the court will gather as much information as possible about the child's life and then create a custody order that focuses on their stability and a secure living situation. Each parent can make a case for the custody agreement they believe is best for their child.
Navigating this type of child custody case can certainly be complex. Having the guidance of an experienced family law attorney is essential to advocating for your rights and for your child’s best interests.]]>On Behalf of Tapp Law Firm<![CDATA[3 tips for easing child custody handovers]]>https://www.tapplaw.com/?p=509132026-07-24T14:57:46Z2026-07-24T14:57:46ZThinking ahead can be difficult when determining how child custody will work. The emotional and mental stress of the divorce can easily get overwhelming. Yet, the greater clarity you can achieve, the more effective your child custody agreement is likely to be.One of the things to consider is how you will manage handovers. These may be one of the only times divorced parents have face-to-face contact, so they can easily turn into points of friction if not handled carefully.
1. Choose your timing carefully
Getting three schedules -- yours, your ex’s and your child’s – to sync can be challenging. If possible, find a time when slight delays are not an issue. Knowing that one of you has to be somewhere else can add stress when someone gets delayed, which can easily happen. Many parents opt for evenings and weekends for this reason.
2. Pick a neutral location
Many parents arrange to collect or drop off the child at the other’s house. While this can work well, some people find the presence of their ex outside their house uncomfortable or even threatening – especially if they have a new partner.If you opt for a neutral venue, pick a place where delays are not an issue, not somewhere where you are only allowed to stop for five minutes before risking a ticket. Some parents choose a cafe or local park to make waiting more enjoyable. Also, think about the distance each party must travel. It may soon feel unfair if one party always has to drive further.Violent or aggressive exes are often best met in safe public places, perhaps with a friend or relation for company. Some parents even have someone else conduct the handover for them.
3. Agree to restrict the conversation
You may have things to discuss with your co-parent, but many topics are better handled without the children present. There are things your child does not need to overhear – and they certainly do not need to see you both agitated or arguing. Let your co-parent know that you need to limit conversation during handovers to “need-to-know” information about the children, like who needs cold medicine and whose homework is in their backpack.Experienced legal guidance can be of great help in navigating this and other matters in your divorce.]]>On Behalf of Tapp Law Firm<![CDATA[Why seeking alimony can still be a challenge for men]]>https://www.tapplaw.com/?p=508962026-06-12T15:51:53Z2026-06-12T15:51:53ZThe determination of whether a spouse is ordered to pay spousal support (commonly known as alimony), how much and for how long should have nothing to do with either spouse’s gender. The Arkansas state statute on alimony refers to “spouse” and “person,” but does not use gendered terms like husband and wife. Alimony isn’t as common as it was half a century ago, when most men outearned their wives and women’s opportunities in the workplace were more limited. While spouses now often have similar incomes, many women outearn their husbands. That means more men are opting to put their careers on hold or step back from full-time work to care for their children.
It is “still the exception rather than the rule”
That as society has change, that change has meant that more men are seeking alimony from their spouses (regardless of that spouse’s gender) in divorce. Under the law, the same factors are to be considered by the court when determining alimony regardless of the gender of either spouse. Nonetheless, as one legal professional points out, it’s “still the exception rather than the rule” for men to ask for alimony. It can be even more of an exception for a man to receive the alimony he seeks.Some men still feel that there’s a stigma attached to men receiving alimony – particularly from women. That attitude is shared by some judges who are making these decisions. It’s been found that the average award is lower for men than for women. Further, judges tend to require more evidence from men that they are looking for work or taking steps to raise their earning capacity while they’re receiving “rehabilitative” alimony that’s meant to help the lower-earning spouse support themselves until they can adequately do so without this financial help.Arkansas judges generally have considerable latitude when determining alimony. Overall, though, they consider things like the length of the marriage, each spouse’s earning potential (taking into consideration any childcare responsibilities) and their physical and emotional health. While men can and should seek the alimony they need if their soon-to-be ex can afford to pay it, it’s important to know that they may encounter some added challenges that a woman might not. That’s one reason it’s essential to have experienced legal guidance when presenting the case for alimony.
]]>On Behalf of Tapp Law Firm<![CDATA[5 mistakes to avoid as a parent after divorce]]>https://www.tapplaw.com/?p=509022026-06-08T12:07:43Z2026-06-08T12:07:43ZDivorce can create major challenges for every member of the family. As a parent, the decisions you make after your divorce can affect both your relationship with your children and the outcome of future legal matters.
Many post-divorce disputes arise because parents make avoidable mistakes during an emotional time. Understanding common pitfalls can help you protect your children and reduce unnecessary conflict with your co-parent.
1. Bringing personal disputes to social media
It may be tempting to vent your frustrations online, but social media posts can become evidence in later legal proceedings. Negative comments about your former spouse or details about family disagreements may increase conflict and affect future family law matters. Taking a cautious approach to online activity can prevent avoidable problems.
2. Making major parenting decisions alone
Depending on the custody arrangement, important decisions about education, health care and other significant issues may require input from both parents. Acting without proper communication can create disputes and undermine cooperation. When possible, working together often creates greater stability for children.
3. Ignoring child custody orders
Child custody arrangements are court orders that should be followed. Missing parenting time, failing to make your child a priory in your life, or changing plans without approval can lead to legal consequences and strain family relationships. If circumstances change, requesting a formal modification is often a better option.
4. Overlooking financial and legal responsibilities
Parents should remain current on child support obligations and comply with other court-ordered requirements. Missed payments or failure to follow agreements can create additional legal issues and unnecessary stress. Maintaining good records and staying organized may help avoid future disputes. Never rely on the other parent or the government to keep accurate records.
5. Involving children in adult conflicts
Children should never feel responsible for their parents' disagreements. Asking them to deliver messages, discuss legal issues, or choose sides can cause emotional harm and put them in an unfair position. Allowing children to maintain healthy relationships with both parents often supports their long-term well-being.Having a relationship with both parents, presuming that both parents act in a manner of selflessness where the child is concerned, is best for a child. The period after a divorce can be challenging, but thoughtful decisions can help protect your family and reduce future conflict. Family law issues often continue after the final order, and child custody arrangements may need to adapt as children and circumstances change. Seeking legal guidance can help you navigate these transitions while protecting your parental rights and your children's best interests.]]>On Behalf of Tapp Law Firm<![CDATA[5 items a child should have at both co-parents’ homes]]>https://www.tapplaw.com/?p=508822026-05-01T16:05:05Z2026-05-08T13:59:44ZIt can be challenging for a child to pack and unpack every time when moving between their two homes. Not only can this make them feel like they are living out of a suitcase, but they may also not have a sense of belonging in either home.
Co-parents should keep items their child needs at both homes to provide stability, comfort, and a sense of belonging. Here are five such items:
Clothing
You should have a sufficient wardrobe for your child in the two homes. It should include daily clothing, underwear, socks, pajamas, school clothes//uniforms, swimwear, seasonal clothes and footwear.
Toiletries
Ensure your child has a toothbrush, toothpaste, hair care items, skincare products and personal care products. They don’t need to pack a toothbrush, shampoo or lotion every time they move.
Toys and games
Some toys can move between the two homes without difficulties, such as a doll or a small card game. However, it helps to duplicate certain toys, such as trucks, trains, board games and art supplies.
School supplies
Of course, your child needs to move with certain school supplies, such as their homework, school-issued electronics, projects and specialized items like music instruments. However, some items can be available in both homes, including stationery, notebooks, athletic gear, calculators and basic art supplies.
Electronics
Your child should have access to electronics in both homes. For instance, a smartphone for communication and a laptop/tablet for schoolwork. Make sure chargers are present at the two homes and screen time rules apply consistently. Your child can move around with their favorite items or things that can’t be duplicated. Otherwise, they should have anything they need at both homes. Get more information about other ways you and your co-parent can reduce struggles, increasing the chances of successful co-parenting. ]]>On Behalf of Tapp Law Firm<![CDATA[One thing that can really help summer co-parenting]]>https://www.tapplaw.com/?p=508922026-05-01T16:03:53Z2026-05-01T16:03:53ZStay flexible
You might have had to fight hard to get a share of parenting time that you are content with when going through the divorce. So being flexible with the other parent may be the last thing on your mind. However, flexibility can make for simpler co-parenting.
If this is going to be your first summer after divorce, you may find that the plan you so carefully made doesn’t work. The kids’ summer routine may require a change to the schedules you worked out. You may find that having the children from Monday to Friday as planned simply does not allow you to get enough work done when they are hanging around the house and you are working from home.
Another reason you might need to be flexible is to avoid shutting out opportunities. For example, your ex-mother-in-law wants to take all the grandchildren to the coast for a week. However, the only week she can do this is the week the kids are due to be with you. If you refuse because it’s your turn to have the kids, they may feel they are missing out. If you grant permission and perhaps make up the time on another date, it is likely better for them and can lead to future flexibility being directed your way by your co-parent when you need it.
Experienced legal guidance on matters of custody and parenting time can help you come up with the sort of arrangement that is more likely to lead to cooperation moving forward.]]>On Behalf of Tapp Law Firm<![CDATA[Modifying custody orders: When and how to take action]]>https://www.tapplaw.com/?p=508792026-04-08T14:41:54Z2026-04-10T14:40:08ZFollow the process
It’s not enough to simply ask your co-parent to agree to changes. Such informal agreements may seem convenient, but they are not legally recognized or enforceable if disputes arise later. As such, it’s important to go through the proper legal channels.
Modifying a custody order involves filing a petition in the same court that issued the original order. Think of it as a formal request to the court to adjust your child’s living arrangements or your parenting responsibilities. Your petition should clearly explain what you want to change and why these changes are necessary.
Once you do this, a hearing will be scheduled where both parents can present their cases unless an agreement is reached prior to Court. The judge may ask questions to clarify how the proposed changes will impact your child, and each parent will have the opportunity to provide evidence supporting their position. The court will then issue a ruling on the matter.
Maximizing your chances for a favorable outcome
Preparation is key to improving your chances of a successful custody modification. Start by gathering clear evidence of the changes in circumstances that necessitate the modification. Remember, courts focus on the best interests of the child, so any information that highlights how the proposed changes benefit your child will strengthen your case.
Next, approach the process professionally. Keep communication with your co-parent focused on the child’s needs and avoid letting personal conflicts overshadow the discussion. Present your proposed changes thoughtfully and calmly during the hearing.
Lastly, by seeking professional legal guidance, you can avoid common pitfalls as you navigate the legal process and help ensure your petition is as effective as possible. This can make a meaningful difference in achieving a custody arrangement that serves your child’s best interests while avoiding unnecessary stress for both you and your family.]]>