Divorce and family law have always been overshadowed by myths and half-truths. From exaggerated stories depicted in the media to divorced individuals who misrepresent their circumstances to elicit sympathy or pity from others, there are many sources of misinformation...
How is child support enforced in New York?
In last week’s post, we reviewed how child support gets determined in New York divorce cases. While most parents comply with such financial assistance orders, there are situations in which people cannot or choose not to pay. We have helped numerous parents understand...
Requesting retirement funds during a gray divorce
More couples over the age of 50 are filing for a divorce in New York as a way to start a new chapter in their lives. For many, requesting proceeds from a soon-to-be-ex-spouse's retirement fund may provide the financial means to reach their goals. Because the Empire...
Do you need a QDRO?
A QDRO, or qualified domestic relations order, is a legal decree issued by the court as part of divorce proceedings. When dividing marital assets, the court may decide that one spouse can claim a portion of the other spouse's retirement account. The QDRO provides...
Managing marital funds: What do you need to know?
Though you likely did not enter your New York marriage with the assumption that it will one day end, it would be wise for you and your spouse to operate in such a way that would ensure the best possible financial outcome should you one day decide to part ways. In...
Common financial mistakes made during divorce
Divorce involves many decisions that can have far-reaching consequences. While the priority is the well-being of the children, financial experts see critical fiscal errors often during or after a divorce. The frustrating part is that these missteps can often be...
Should I ask for a child support modification?
If you are the primary custodian of your child, it is likely that you receive financial assistance from the other parent in the form of child support. The amount of child support that you receive will largely depend on the income of the other parent. However, there...
How do the best interests of a child affect custody decisions?
When parents choose to divorce, the law requires that they reach a custody arrangement that outlines how they plan to care for their child, outlining their respective responsibilities and privileges as parents. In general, courts prefer for parents to work together to...
How vulnerable to challenges is your prenuptial agreement?
Many strong marriages begin with a well-crafted prenuptial agreement. This gives each spouse a sense of security in case of divorce, and protects the marriage from pressures that can arise out of shared debts or other liabilities. However, if a marriage dissolves, a...
Are you ready for big changes in alimony law?
Working through the complex process of divorce is rarely easy, but for those who deal with alimony, now is definitely time to pay attention to the details. On January 1, 2019, major changes in the federal tax code take effect, and the impact on future alimony payers...