Episode Summary:

In this episode of Advocating for Dads, host Sophia Morales and family law attorney Jana K. Jones discuss the differences between flat fee and hourly billing in family law cases. Jana shares insights on why she exclusively uses flat fee and subscription-based models, helping fathers understand their legal cost options when seeking representation.

Key Timestamps:

00:00 - Show Introduction

00:45 - Basic differences between flat fee and hourly billing

02:25 - Why some attorneys prefer hourly billing

03:29 - Services covered under flat fee structure

04:25 - Jana's perspective on hourly billing vs. flat fee

05:58 - How to avoid unexpected legal costs

06:46 - Benefits of flat fee model for financial planning

07:45 - Advice for comparing legal fee structures

About the Show:

Advocating for Dads is a podcast focused on helping fathers navigate family law issues, including custody, divorce, and separation. The show features practical advice from experienced family law attorney Jana K. Jones, who has been serving fathers in North Carolina since 2009.

Episode Summary:

In this episode, family law attorney Jana Jones dives into the complex issue of relocation in custody cases. What happens when one parent wants to move with the children, potentially impacting the custody arrangement? Jana and host Kevin Rosenquist explore how North Carolina courts typically approach these cases, the importance of the child's best interest, and what factors play into court decisions, including the distance of the move, reasons for relocation, and the child's perspective. They also offer practical advice for both custodial and non-custodial parents facing this situation.

Time Stamps:

• [00:00] Introduction to the show and episode topic: Relocation and custody.
• [00:42] How North Carolina courts handle relocation cases.
• [01:16] Key factors considered: Distance, custody arrangements, and the child's best interests.
• [02:43] Acceptable and unacceptable reasons for relocation.
• [05:16] What options non-custodial parents have if they oppose the move.
• [06:16] Balancing the custodial parent's needs with the non-custodial parent's visitation rights.
• [07:25] Creative solutions for maintaining parental relationships after relocation.
• [09:15] Situations where courts allow relocation despite objections.
• [11:28] When a child's wishes impact court decisions.
• [13:41] Steps for both custodial and non-custodial parents when a relocation is proposed.

About the Show:

Advocating for Dads with Jana Jones is a podcast dedicated to helping fathers navigate the complexities of family law. Hosted by experienced family law attorney Jana Jones, each episode covers topics like custody, visitation, and legal rights, with a focus on achieving fair and balanced outcomes.

In this episode, host Kevin Rosenquist sits down with Jana Jones to discuss the profound impact fathers have on their children’s development, especially during and after divorce. Jana highlights the importance of joint custody, the evolving perspectives in family law, and strategies fathers can use to demonstrate their involvement in their children's lives. They also address common misconceptions about fatherhood, how courts view parental roles in North Carolina, and practical advice for fathers navigating contentious custody disputes.

• [00:00] Welcome to Advocating for Dads Introduction to the podcast and today’s topic: fathers’ involvement in child development.
• [00:37] Meet Jana Jones Jana’s experience as a family law attorney and her approach to custody cases.
• [01:05] The Impact of Fathers on Child Development Why children thrive with both parents involved during and after divorce.
• [02:04] Misconceptions About Fathers’ Roles Addressing outdated beliefs about custody schedules and fathers' rights.
• [03:39] Shifting Mindsets in Family Law The evolution of legal perspectives on joint custody and parental involvement.
• [04:40] How Courts View Fathers in North Carolina The legal system focuses on the child’s best interest and father’s rights.
• [07:44] Strategies for Fathers in Court How dads can demonstrate involvement and commitment in custody cases.
• [09:26] Making the Most of Limited Custody Time Tips for fathers to maximize quality time with their children.
• [10:25] Importance of Hiring Legal Counsel Early Why acting quickly is critical to protecting your rights as a father.
• [12:10] Do Children’s Wishes Matter in Custody Decisions? How judges weigh children’s preferences and the challenges involved.
• [13:37] Closing Thoughts Advice for fathers feeling undermined during custody battles and how to connect with Jana Jones.

Advocating for Dads is a podcast dedicated to empowering fathers with the legal knowledge and insights they need to navigate family law, custody battles, and co-parenting challenges. Hosted by Kevin Rosenquist and featuring experienced family law attorney Jana Jones, the show aims to break down misconceptions, provide actionable advice, and advocate for fathers' rights in family court.