Stevens Firm - September 2019

Stevens Firm - September 2019

Falling Back Into Routines What Matters Most THE 349 E. Main Street, Suite 200, Spartanburg, SC 29302 • www.SCFamilyLaw.com • (864) 598-9172 September 2019

StevensFirm, P.A. Family Law Center

I love the fall. It’s probably my favorite season out of the whole year, and it’s finally in the air. School is back is session, and all of our little cherubs are falling back into their routines of attending classes, working their part-time jobs, doing homework, and studying for tests and exams. We have three children working on their college degrees (Tory in Charleston, Jay at Wofford, and Libby at Converse), and they are all making their ways toward officially declaring their majors and choosing a more focused path for their lives. Tristan and Elizabeth are both seniors in high school this year! Along with getting to know their way around the brand new (and huge ) Spartanburg High School campus, they are working hard on college applications, scholarship applications, and taking AP courses to hopefully reduce the number of first year college classes they will have to take. Elizabeth and I have even added a morning workout to our schedules to help jump-start our days (and improve our minds and bodies). High school football season is also in full swing, and both Tristan and Elizabeth are part of the SHS marching band, which means most Friday nights, when there’s a home game, you’ll find us at the stadium enjoying the game but also waiting for the band’s half- time performance.

Our youngest, Dexter, just started his fourth grade year and was excited to learn over the summer that he qualified for the Gifted and Talented program at his school. It’s such a joy to see him so excited about the opportunity to learn “extra” stuff during the school day. We pray he never loses that excitement for gaining new knowledge. But mostly, I just enjoy how after a busy, busy summer, with kids working (and playing) in what seemed like every direction, we finally can have a bit more structure to our weekly schedules. Even though everyone is busy with school, somehow for me, the weekends take on a more honored position during the week, and everyone seems drawn together to enjoy at least one family dinner together on the weekends possible. We’d love to hear from you about some of your favorite fall and/or back-to-school routines and traditions. Share them with us online via our Facebook page, or comment on our blog post with this newsletter edition. Happy fall! –Jenny Stevens

Reminder About Our Firm’s Communication Policy Our promise to you is that while we are working on your case, we don’t take inbound phone calls, faxes, or emails. Our Senior Partner, Ben Stevens, takes no unscheduled inbound phone calls, as we have found this makes him much more productive and enables him to focus on getting your case resolved faster. You can always call our office at (864) 598-9172 and schedule an in-person or phone appointment with any of our attorneys, usually within 24–48 hours. We believe this approach is much better than the endless game of phone tag played by most businesses today. Email is also an efficient way to communicate with us, but please

be advised that emails are not typically checked more than twice per day. If you need something quickly, don’t email — call our office and speak with one of our assistants, who will be happy to help you. Disclaimer: This publication is intended to educate the general public about family law issues. It is not intended to be legal advice. Every case is different. The information in this newsletter may be freely copied and distributed so long as the newsletter is copied in its entirety and proper credit is attributed to “The Stevens Firm, P.A. — Family Law Center (SCFamilyLaw.com).”

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Stop the Spread

Prevent Colds and the Flu With Kid-Friendly Teaching Tools

School is back in session, but your child may be bringing home more than just random facts. Germs and bacteria that spread the common cold and flu are most prevalent in schools, but while these illnesses are strong, prevention is simple. Teach your kids how to prevent the spread of bacteria this season with these helpful tips. But Mommy Doesn’t Cover Her Nose! Kids learn more by watching what you do rather than listening to what you tell them to do. Get in the habit of covering your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze, and then wash your hands. Make hand sanitizer and facial tissues readily available in your home and be sure to wash your hands before every meal. In addition, stick to healthy habits when you do feel sick. Drink fluids, get plenty of rest, and seek medical attention when it’s warranted. If your children see you taking care of yourself, they will be more likely to do the same for themselves in the future. Ahh ... Ahh ... ACHOO! Hand washing and nose blowing are about as fun as … well, just that. It’s no wonder children don’t want to take time out of their busy play schedules to combat nasty germs. Instead of making these important steps a chore, make basic hygiene fun. Use fun songs to teach the proper way to How to Decide if the Time Is Right Choosing to file for divorce is never easy. For many spouses, it’s one of the most difficult choices they’ll ever make, not least because the emotional impacts are compounded by financial ones. If you’re contemplating making the leap, here are a few important steps to take first: 1. Contact an Attorney No matter how many divorce-filled legal shows you’ve watched or divorce advice books you’ve read, when you’re dealing with the real thing, it’s best to bring in an expert. Seek out an experienced family attorney who can help you understand the process, its impact on your children, and how much it will cost. 2. Check on Marital Assets If you notice that large amounts of money are being transferred out of your joint account, it’s time to contact an attorney. In case of divorce, they’ll be able to hire an expert forensic accountant to help trace where the funds went for the division of asset purposes. Debt piling up is another warning sign. In that case, it’s best to file for divorce as soon as possible, as the filing date will determine which debts are considered marital and which are individual. 3. Evaluate Retirement Accounts If you have any significant pension or 401(k) plans with your employer, you may want to file for divorce sooner rather than later. Retirement accounts are generally considered part of the marital estate, even if

cover a sneeze, or do a science experiment to teach your children about the germs that are spread through just one sneeze. (According to research, sneezes can travel anywhere from 19–26 feet at 100 miles per hour!) For crafty kids, let them decorate tissue boxes or hand sanitizer containers to give hygiene some flair. Soon enough, you’ll find them being smarter about their health. As kids pack into classrooms this fall, germs will fly faster than this past summer did. Prevent the spread of the common cold and flu by learning more tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention online at CDC.gov.

Should I Wait to File for Divorce?

they were established before marriage, and can be subject to equitable distribution by the Family Court. 4. Consider Your Children That divorce will impact the children in a marriage goes without saying, but couples divorcing in South Carolina have another complication to think about. In the Palmetto State, divorces involving children require each party to complete a Proposed Parenting Plan before the first hearing. An experienced attorney can ensure that process goes as smoothly as possible for your family. All that said, there is rarely a “best” time to file for divorce. If you are contemplating a divorce but are unsure of your legal rights, don’t hesitate to contact our office.

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Classic Apple Crisp

What do you do when apples are in season but you don’t have time to make a pie? You opt for a crisp, of course.

Local Events What’s Happening in Spartanburg?

Ingredients

SpartOberfest When: Thursday–Sunday, Sept. 12–14; times vary Where: Jesus Our Risen Savior Catholic Church Cost: $2

Filling: • 5 lbs Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and chopped • 1/4 cup pecans, finely chopped • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour

Topping: • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour • 1/3 cup brown sugar • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon • 1/4 tsp salt • 6 tbsp chilled butter, cut into pieces • 1/4 cup pecans, coarsely chopped

Last year’s SpartOberfest was cut short by Hurricane Florence, but this year, we have our fingers crossed for better weather. This South Carolina version of Germany’s famous Oktoberfest brings families together for wholesome fun, including live music, a 5K–10K Pretzel Run, a Christmas market, food, drink, and fellowship. A portion of the proceeds benefits St. Luke’s Free Medical Clinic, the Spartanburg Interfaith Hospitality Network (SPIHN), and Safe Homes Rape Crisis Coalition. SYP ‘n Shuck Oyster season returns in September, and with it comes the annual SYP ‘n Shuck oyster roast, hosted by the Spartanburg Young Professionals (SYP). Attendees will enjoy live music, beer and wine, socializing, and, of course, plenty of freshly shucked oysters. The ambitious young adults in SYP are the future of Spartanburg, so come out to support their volunteer work and education. True to the Brew Trail Run/Hike Half Marathon Would you be willing to dash 13.1 miles for free beer? If your answer is yes, you’re not alone. For the second year in a row, the True to the Brew Trail Run/ Hike Half Marathon will unite 250 Spartanburg runners in pursuit of Palmetto Trail Pale Ale. The challenging route starts at Cedar Springs Baptist Church in Spartanburg and runs through the Croft Passage of the Palmetto Trail, finishing at Croft State Park with suds and vouchers to RJ Rockers Brewery. When: Friday, Sept. 27; 7 p.m. Where: Northside Harvest Park Cost: $20–$30 When: Saturday, Sept. 28; 7:30 a.m. Where: Cedar Springs Baptist Church Cost: $55

• 2 tbsp maple syrup • 1 tbsp lemon juice

Directions

1. Heat oven to 350 F. 2. In a mixing bowl, mix all filling ingredients together. Transfer to individual serving ramekins. 3. In a different mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, cinnamon, and salt for the topping. Mix in butter until it forms lumps roughly the size of a pea, then stir in pecans. Sprinkle topping over filling. 4. Bake for 35–40 minutes, let stand for 10 minutes, and serve.

take a break

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PAGE 1 Back Into Routines PAGE 2 Teach Your Kids Flu Prevention Should I Wait to File for Divorce? PAGE 3 Classic Apple Crisp A Local Events Roundup PAGE 4 Lessons From an Unlikely Businessman

Lessons From an Unlikely Businessman

‘Some Stories: Lessons From the Edge of Business and Sport’

You’re probably familiar with the story of outdoor apparel company Patagonia and its founder, Yvon Chouinard. Chouinard’s earlier book,

“I know of no better example than Chouinard of what entrepreneurial Americans do best,” wrote author and angler Thomas McGuane.

“Let My People Go Surfing: The Education of a Reluctant Businessman,” explored the early struggles and triumphs of Patagonia and gave us some insight into how the company became so successful. Now, Chouinard has given us another glimpse into his world with his new book, “Some Stories: Lessons From the Edge of Business and Sport.” As the title suggests, the book is a collection of stories and beautiful photographs that illustrate how a sense of adventure, a readiness to adapt, and, above all else, a dedication to what you believe in are all necessary parts of doing anything well (including running a multimillion- dollar business). While the book contains plenty of business advice, most of its wisdom is just as applicable to life as it is to business management.

Entrepreneurs have to take initiative and be ready to accept great risk, and Chouinard does both with the pioneering spirit of a true business owner, despite his reluctance to accept the title. He would never abandon his values or the company’s to sell a sweatshirt, and he’s constantly pulling inspiration and guidance from the natural environment. “Some Stories” explores Chouinard’s drive to learn and make mistakes along the way and paints a portrait of an icon of thoughtful action and business success. “Some Stories” is worth it just for the stunning pictures, but if you want to be pulled in by a book, and possibly forced to reconsider whether or not you’ve been coasting with your business and life, then this is a must read. As author and reporter Jon Krakauer warns, “this book might make you think twice about what you’re doing with your own life.”

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