As people await the much anticipated white smoke to appear for the selection of the new Pope, another anticipated event comes around this time of year. Wedding season is upon us, and although most couples feel a conclave of...more
Divorce is challenging for any business owner, but for restaurant owners, it presents unique complexities—especially when determining the value of the business. A restaurant’s worth isn’t just about profits; it also includes...more
For restaurant owners, divorce can pose unique challenges—especially when it comes to dividing business assets and profits. Unlike other marital assets, a restaurant is often a personal passion and a critical source of...more
Dividing retirement accounts during a divorce is already complex, but the process becomes even more complicated when you factor in market volatility.. Stock market fluctuations can dramatically change the value of retirement...more
Dividing assets in a divorce is one of the most complex aspects of an already emotionally, physically, and financially challenging process. Without a prenuptial agreement or a postnuptial agreement, determining who gets what...more
Meeting with a divorce attorney for the first time can feel overwhelming, no matter the circumstances. ...more
You’ve done all the hard work in your divorce or dissolution action. You’ve exchanged any requisite documents and other discovery, made a full and complete disclosure of all your assets, liabilities and income, and completed...more
Under Virginia law, separation occurs when at least one spouse forms the intent to permanently separate. Consider these practical steps to protect your property interests. Originally published in the February 2025 issue of...more
Before we dive into ways to prepare for your post-separation support and alimony case, it's important to understand what these terms mean and your general eligibility for spousal support. There are two types of spousal...more
Before we dive into ways to prepare for your post-separation support and alimony case, it's important to understand what each of these terms mean and your general eligibility for spousal support. There are two types of...more
On December 30, 2024, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit reversed and remanded a ruling from the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Mississippi that concerned the denial of Appellant’s motion to...more
You're going through a divorce. Your spouse says something that cuts deep—maybe they call you an unfit parent or threaten that you'll walk away with nothing. These brief yet hurtful comments can trigger impulsive actions. But...more
On January 31, 2025, the Chief Administrative Judge of the State of New York announced an inventive pilot program designed to change how the court system processes divorces, introducing the concept of "uncontested joint...more
I recently talked with family law attorney Robert Salzer on the Pennsylvania Bar Association’s “Law in the Family” podcast about “gray divorce” and the considerations related to parties divorcing later in life. There’s no...more
Dividing assets in a divorce is often a complicated and emotional process, and when inheritance is involved, the stakes can be even higher. In South Carolina, inherited property is generally considered separate from marital...more
There have always been those couples who decide, for whatever reason, not to get married. They continue to live together and build a life together without the formality of marriage. So, what happens when a relationship like...more
In November of 2023, I did a post on this blog titled The Intersection of Family Law, Estate Law and Federal Law, regarding the reported Appellate Division case In the Matter of Michael D. Jones, Deceased. That case dealt...more
In early July 2024, Florida enacted a significant amendment to its equitable distribution statute, particularly concerning the treatment of personal goodwill in divorce proceedings. These changes, coupled with the pivotal...more
Introduction: For expatriates living in the UAE, divorce might be a complicated process and deal with emotions. Abu Dhabi has been taking steps to address the unique challenges that expatriates face with its Law No. 14/2021...more
One's ownership in a closely held business (often a family business) may be affected by a separation or divorce. In many situations, the business will be joined as a party in an equitable distribution lawsuit. " One's...more
Divorces are stressful and emotionally challenging. Amidst feelings of loss and uncertainty, there are practical matters that require careful attention, especially when it comes to financial assets. In addition to having a...more
I start this blog post with a confession. I am a collector. I collect all sorts of things, vintage wristwatches, fountain pens, 1940’s Hall refrigerator ware, vinyl records, and probably a few other things I can’t think of...more
“It didn’t happen if there isn’t a document to prove it.” This proposition is a little bit like “possession is nine tenths of the law.” It sounds good and frequently applies, but it isn’t as absolute as it sounds. In...more
The Rules of Court clearly allow a Family Part Judge to appoint their own expert on any issues, whether custody or economic issues, in order to aid the court in making a decision on an issue before the Court. The Court rule...more
As Spring came this year, the news was filled with reports that we would see an especially large crop of ciccadas this year as the 13 year brood is coming at the same time as their 17 year cousins. But it isn’t just insects...more