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Your Family Law Litigation and Your Employment

Any time a family law dispute arises (be it divorce, custody or some post-decree modification), it leads to significant stress that impacts all facets of one's life with relation to wealth, asset management, debt acquisition, routine household tasks and productivity. This stress can be particularly acute in the area of employment; statistical studies of large-scale employers reflect 50-75% drops in productivity by the worker in such an action, as well as a "ripple effect" among the co-workers and line managers who struggle to adjust and cover for the productivity loss.

When the productivity loss gets to be too profound, an employer will be forced by necessity to evaluate whether the affected employee's retention is worth the sacrifice; this can lead to position stagnation, demotion, censure or firing.

It is important to keep in mind that a Kentucky employer can generally terminate an employee for any reason (subject to the requirements of a written contract of employment or a collective bargaining agreement). While most Louisville employers are fairly accomodating with regard to their employees needing time for court appearances, mediation sessions, mental health consultations and attorney consultations, there is a practical limit to what any particular workplace can absorb.

With this in mind, here are some hints and tips with regard to your workplace:

1. The one thing that you will need to remain intact after your action is concluded is a good relationship with your employer and a good employment record. Repeat that thought every time you are inclined to discuss specifics about your action with your co-workers, your boss and any stray fellow employee.

2. Be considerate about scheduling attorney consultations, therapy appointments and mediation sessions. Know your work flow, and try and choose dates and times which diminish the impact of your absences. Your attorney will work with you on that.

3. Make sure your employer is aware of your scheduling needs in advance of them, give your managers the opportunity to agree in advance.

4. Eat appropriately, get enough sleep and concentrate on working while you're at work.

5. Don't do your "suit prep" at work - concentrate on work.

Ultimately, by being considerate and attentive, you lessen the impact of your family law action on your co-workers and management.