DC and MD Matrimonial Lawyer Focusing on Custody, Divorce and Prenups
For over 20 years, Regina A. DeMeo has been helping families in MD and DC with custody and divorce issues either through mediation, litigation or advocacy. She is an alumna of Georgetown University and GW University Law School, who is nationally recognized as a top matrimonial attorney. She is frequently quoted in the media for her ideas to promote healthier relationships and featured in the Washington Post, ABA Journal and Bethesda Magazine for her care and commitment to her clients. As a legal commentator, she has appeared on Washington Post Express Facebook Live, ABC tv, Good Morning America, MMCTV, YouTube and Sirius XM, and has been quoted in various magazines, books and journals across the country.
Regina offers appointments in Maryland and DC. Her areas of practice include:
Latest Blog Posts by GenXSmartie
Meeting Your Own Needs
So often I hear clients talk about how their partners failed them or made them miserable-- but very rarely can people take some responsibility for their own actions that led to the demise of a relationship. As an outsider that has had to delve deep into divorces for over a decade, it is so easy to see how things can fall apart, but the burning question I've had for a while now is how do you make things last? This week, I was able to listen to two different experts-- one a dating coach, the other a life coach-- speak about fulfilling relationships. Both suggested that while we all have needs, it is not our partner's job to meet all of our needs. Some of us require high levels of intellectual stimulation, and as one expert quickly pointed out, that need can be met through books or seminars, not necessarily your partner, who just needs to be your emotional rock. Some of us need to run 4 miles a day just to calm down-- that does not mean we need our partners to run along side us, in fact at that moment all I want is my iphone as my best friend. Women in the 21st century are certainly proving that they can do almost everything on their own-- but [...]
Little Gestures Go A Long Way
Some guys are all about big gifts and grand gestures-- I guess they think it's all about making some magnificent impression. But smart girls know to look beyond the flashy presentation, and it is often the small acts of kindness that go a long way-- like making someone a perfect cup of coffee; making an effort to open the car door; sending a caring text during the day; or calling at the end of the day to check in. This skill in follow through is unfortunately waning these days, so when you find that rare gem that does not actually need to be trained, make sure you let him know how much you appreciate it.For those that are not naturally inclined to pay attention to little details, you may need to encourage this behavior with a lot of positive reinforcement. Modeling good behavior is always helpful, and making gentle requests (not demands) helps those that are clueless figure out what to do. If you value the person and being in a relationship, then you may need to be patient teaching this skill. Some may just be hopeless, and then you need to decide whether it is something you can live without. The only way to know is by testing it out. I thought I could learn to live without the [...]
Why Are There So Many Pre-Valentine’s Day Break Ups?
With almost a week left before the big day, some will find themselves dreading this artificially created holiday, unable to make any plans, and feeling quite unmotivated to buy any gifts or cards. Feelings can only be ignored for so long, and unfortunately it is often at milestone moments like anniversaries, holidays or V-Day that we have to come to terms with how we truly feel in any given relationship. If you are not looking forward to sharing this day of love with someone, it is hard to ignore the question: why not? Love is built on trust, respect and intimacy. It is something we all have to keep working at through open communications. Like a garden that needs tending, you have to keep putting an effort into those relationships that matter, and when issues about trust, respect or intimacy come up-- do not ignore them. Many dilude themselves into thinking some issues will blow over or they are not as big as they seem. Letting time to pass is doing nothing to rectify problems, which ultimately cannot be ignored, particularly when special events come up. So, if you find yourself of the verge of a break-up around this time, know that you are in good company. Then be honest with yourself in terms of deciphering whether the issues [...]
Valentine’s Tips for Women
V-Day is less than two weeks away, and while guys are busy making dinner reservations and arranging for flower deliveries that will cost them 3 times the normal rate, it is indeed a good girlfriend's duty to figure out what she can do for her significant other. Here are some suggestions: 1. tickets to a sporting event; 2. a framed picture of you together; 3. bake something special for him; 4. book an activity together; 5. get him an article of clothing or cufflinks; 6. make him a CD mix; 7. guys like toys-- electronic gadgets like an ipad, games, etc.; or 8. lingerie that you get to model and he gets to enjoy. Let's talk about option #8, because the rest are rather self-explanatory. Now some guys are very specific about what they like or don't like to see on women. If this is truly a gift for him, then it is not about what you like-- it is about fulfilling your partner's fantasy. Some may be a bit shy about telling you their preferences, and you may have to take them shopping with you or pull out a Victoria Secret's catalog, but making the effort is key. The importance of sex in a relationship cannot be overstated. It is about intimacy, connecting, and sharing something incredibly private. [...]