Are you confused about fixed-fee versus hourly billing for your Wisconsin divorce? In this episode, we break down the critical differences between billing models to help you make informed representation decisions. 

We discuss:

• Fixed fee provides cost certainty versus hourly uncertainty
• The usual misconceptions and the benefits of communication
• Rare cases inappropriate for fixed fee due to complexity
• Important questions to ask attorneys about billing practices

Listen in for practical guidance on Wisconsin divorce billing models, understanding true costs versus retainer deposits, and choosing representation that aligns with your budget and communication needs. These insights will help you make informed decisions about legal representation during divorce proceedings.

Your child says they want to live with you and can explain why, but does that actually change custody outcomes? In this episode, Sterling Lawyers lead attorney Jeff Hughes clears up the biggest misconception in Wisconsin custody law and explains what courts actually consider. 

We tackle:

• No magic age in Wisconsin custody law
• Child wishes are one factor among many
• Mature reasoning about stability beats superficial preferences
• Guardian ad Litem communicates preferences without courtroom trauma
• Courts prioritize long-term well-being over short-term comfort

Listen in for practical guidance on understanding how child preferences actually influence Wisconsin custody decisions, avoiding common misconceptions that lead to poor strategies, and helping children express legitimate concerns through appropriate channels. These insights will help you develop realistic expectations and effective approaches to custody cases involving child preferences.

Are you going through a Wisconsin divorce and worried about how retirement accounts will be divided? In this episode, Sterling Lawyers managing partner Holly Mullin and attorney Mike Kyrios break down everything you need to know about retirement account division to protect your financial future.

• The critical difference between easy-to-value accounts (401(k)s, IRAs) and complex pensions requiring professional valuation
• Tax implications that could cost you thousands if not properly considered in division
• QDRO process for actually dividing accounts after divorce finalization
• Why pension valuations range from $20,000 to $500,000 - impossible to estimate without professional analysis
• How to avoid early withdrawal penalties while still paying taxes when money is withdrawn
• Strategic approaches to minimize QDRO costs and paperwork through account consolidation

Listen in for practical guidance on protecting retirement assets during a Wisconsin divorce, understanding the true value of pension benefits, and ensuring a fair division that considers tax implications. These insights will help you make informed decisions about retirement account division and avoid costly mistakes that could impact your financial security for decades.

Are you panicking because a Guardian ad Litem has been assigned to your custody case? In this episode, Sterling Lawyers lead attorney Jeff Hughes explains why GALs aren't obstacles but actually your best opportunity to win custody when you understand their process and prepare properly. 

They discuss:

• How Guardian ad Litems interview everyone in your child's life, not just parents
• Why GALs review all records and documentation to verify claims and catch lies
• How child behavior observations matter more than what children say
• The 4-12 week investigation timeline and why preparation beats panic

Listen in for practical guidance on working with Guardian ad Litems, understanding their investigation process, and maximizing your opportunities to demonstrate your parenting strengths. These insights will help you turn potential obstacles into advantages for winning custody and protecting your relationship with your children.

Are you confused about how to properly value real estate in your Wisconsin divorce? In this episode, Sterling Law Offices Managing Partner Holly Mullin and Senior Associate Mike Kyrios explain the three methods for valuing Wisconsin divorce real estate and when each approach is most appropriate for accurate property division. 

They talk about:

• Three valuation methods: online estimates, comparative market analysis, and professional appraisals
• When to sell vs. keep real estate and how that impacts valuation needs
• Cost-benefit analysis of $400-500 appraisals vs. free comparative market analysis
• How to handle valuation disputes and choose between joint vs. separate appraisals

Listen in for practical guidance on Wisconsin divorce real estate valuation, understanding your options for accurate property assessment, and making informed decisions about costs and methods. These insights will help you protect your property interests and achieve a fair division in your Wisconsin divorce proceedings.

Are you wondering how much your child's wishes matter in Wisconsin custody cases? In this episode, Sterling Lawyers lead attorney Jeff Hughes explains the 7 key factors that determine how children's preferences impact custody decisions in Wisconsin, including legal requirements and practical considerations. 

We discussed: 

• Why child's wishes matter but don't decide Wisconsin custody cases
• How there's no magic age where children get to choose custody arrangements
• How Guardian ad Litems communicate child preferences to Wisconsin custody courts
• What judges look for in child reasoning beyond simple preferences

Listen in for practical guidance on understanding how children's wishes factor into Wisconsin custody proceedings, working with Guardian ad Litems, and building effective custody cases that serve your child's best interests. These insights will help you navigate custody cases with realistic expectations while protecting your parental rights.

Are you considering divorce but unsure where to start or whether it's the right decision? In this episode, Sterling Law Offices managing partner Holly Mullin discusses the critical pre-filing considerations that are rarely talked about but incredibly important for anyone contemplating divorce. 

We explore:

• Why to consider marriage counseling before consulting divorce attorneys
• How to research reliable Wisconsin-specific family law information
• What to look for when choosing family law attorneys for consultations
• Understanding your process options beyond traditional divorce litigation

Listen in for practical guidance on preparing for divorce consultations, setting realistic expectations, and taking control of your decision-making timeline. These insights will help you make informed, confident decisions about your marriage while understanding all available options for your family's future.

Are you considering divorce mediation but unsure about how it works and whether it's right for your situation? In this episode, Sterling Law Offices managing partner Holly Mullin explains the three types of divorce mediation and helps you understand when mediation might be a better alternative to traditional divorce litigation.

• How divorce mediation differs from arbitration and why parties control outcomes 
• Three types of mediation: court-ordered custody, pro se, and attorney-assisted 
• Benefits including privacy, efficiency, cost savings, and reduced conflict 
• When mediation isn't appropriate due to power imbalances or trust issues

Listen in for practical guidance on evaluating divorce mediation options, understanding the different processes available, and determining whether collaborative approaches might serve your family better than adversarial court battles. These insights will help you make informed decisions about the best path forward for your divorce.

Is your marriage struggling, but divorce seems too final? In this episode, Sterling Lawyers lead attorney Jeff Hughes explains the five key differences between Wisconsin legal separation and divorce, helping you understand when separation might be the better choice for your situation. 

We explore:

• How easy reconciliation from legal separation compares to remarrying after divorce
• Debt protection benefits that legal separation provides but divorce doesn't
• Health insurance and tax advantages available through legal separation
• Estate planning considerations that favor staying legally married but separated

Listen in for practical guidance on evaluating legal separation versus divorce, understanding the conversion process between the two, and protecting your financial interests while preserving future options. These insights will help you make informed decisions about your marriage without closing doors permanently.

Are you nervous about appearing in family court and unsure about proper courtroom etiquette? In this episode, Sterling Law Offices attorneys Holly Mullin and Robert Keenan share essential tips for presenting yourself professionally during family law proceedings and avoiding behaviors that damage your credibility. 

We explore:

• Why staying silent and letting your attorney speak protects your case
• How nonverbal reactions like eye rolling can backfire and help your opponent
• Essential Zoom court etiquette for virtual family law hearings
• Why being "unremarkable" is your goal for positive judge impressions

Listen in for practical guidance on dress codes, professional behavior, and courtroom psychology that can impact your family law case outcomes. These insights will help you approach family court with confidence while making positive impressions that benefit your case throughout the entire legal process.