In a New York matrimonial action the equitable distribution of property requires a four step analysis. This post will examine the first two of these steps in order. The final two steps will be discussed in two additional posts. The first task in an equitable distribution analysis is the identification of assets and liabilities. Each [Read More]
Every now and then a custody case comes along where a parent proposes to separate siblings. The reasons that I have heard put forth for such an idea invariably are lame and have more to do with the parents' problems rather than what is best for their children. Not surprisingly, as a general rule, courts [Read More]
Custody cases in general are among the more difficult domestic relations cases. Custody cases that involve children with special needs are even more challenging for parents and attorneys. Courts have recognized the "unique challenges" presented by children with special needs and the case law reflects that in custody cases involving special needs children those special [Read More]
New York adopted temporary maintenance guidelines in 2010. Since their introduction these guidelines have been the source of a significant amount of litigation. The statute contains a formula for the calculation of the presumptive amount of temporary maintenance. It also states that a court may deviate from the presumptive award under the temporary maintenance guidelines [Read More]
In New York marital property is subject to equitable distribution in a divorce action. So it is important to know exactly what marital property is. It also is important to understand this concept before one gets knee deep into a divorce action. Marital property is defined as any property acquired by either party during the [Read More]
An annulment is a legal action that determines that the marriage is not legally valid. A divorce terminates a valid marriage. You do not hear of many marriages being annulled in New York and that is because there are very few that are. Since the stigma of divorce long ago vanished, few people look to [Read More]
All too often kids are the victims in divorces and custody battles. Protecting kids from the conflict between their parents is among the most important things parents can do for their children. There are some resources available to help parents with this. One of these is the State of New York Parent Education and Awareness [Read More]
Today we have another installment of "How Not To React When You Are Served With Court Papers." Most people when they are served with court papers react appropriately. They do not attack the process server or verbally lash out at them. They do not show the papers to their children. They do not just throw [Read More]
We start the year by concluding the discussion of relocation of a custodial parent. Parts 1 and 2 dealt with general issues. Parts 3 and 4 will deal with some specific considerations. As discussed previously, in evaluating a custodial parent's request for permission to relocate with a minor a court must determine if such a [Read More]
Getting divorced or being separated at Christmas time is probably one of the worst experiences that a person can have. Being the child of parents who were getting divorced or who are separated at Christmas time can be even worse. This is especially so when parents put their own interests ahead of their child's. Here [Read More]
