Family Law
Modifying custody for summer: when a ‘temporary’ change becomes necessary
As the school year winds down, the predictable rhythm of early morning bus pickups gives way to summer. And if you are a divorced or separated parent, the extended school break demands a complete shift in daily logistics. While your primary child custody decree may...
How property is divided in a New York divorce
Divorce can reshape your financial life in ways you may not expect. Understanding how New York courts divide property can help you prepare for what lies ahead. Marital property vs. separate property The first step is classifying what you own. Under New York Domestic...
Do fathers automatically get 50/50 custody?
If you are a father going through a custody case in Kingston, New York, you might wonder if the court will automatically grant you 50/50 custody. The short answer is no. New York courts do not guarantee equal parenting time to either parent. Instead, judges focus on...
What happens to out-of-state property in a New York divorce?
In New York, divorce courts follow the principle of equitable distribution. Unlike community property states, New York does not automatically treat all property acquired during marriage as jointly owned. Instead, courts divide marital property in ways that are fair...
6 issues that can complicate custody disputes
Custody disputes often begin when everyday parenting questions suddenly create a long-term legal impact. In New York, many factors shape custody decisions, not just a single disagreement or moment. Understanding the issues that make custody disputes harder can help...
3 things to think about when planning to ask for a divorce
Deciding to ask for a divorce is rarely an easy choice. It often follows months, or even years, of reflection, emotional strain and uncertainty about what the future may hold. Whether the marriage has grown distant or conflict has become too difficult to manage,...
Are marital mistakes threatening the outcome of your divorce?
No one is perfect in their marriage. Although a lot of couples can work through their mistakes and their shortcomings while protecting the integrity of their marriage, sometimes that just isn’t possible. And some marriages fall apart simply due to changed priorities...
My spouse wants a divorce. Now what?
It can feel like you’ve been hit by a wrecking ball when your spouse informs you that they want a divorce. This is true even if you were suspecting that marriage dissolution was on the horizon. The shock of it can leave flat-footed, stunned and uncertain of your next...
What to do when falsely accused of parental alienation
Child custody disputes can become more contentious than many expect, resulting in serious allegations being lobbed by each parent. This can include accusations that one parent has engaged in parental alienation. If you’re on the receiving end of parental alienation...
Four ways to protect yourself from a lying spouse
In an ideal divorce, you and your spouse would effectively communicate, be honest with each other and work to find mutually beneficial resolution. Yet, the reality is that all too often divorces are riddled with conflict, and spouses struggle to be truthful. That’s...