Modification of Child Support – Part I
Because changes often occur either with the income of a parent, the expense of raising a child, or in the residence of child, many couples agree to modify the amount of child support that is [...]
It’s that Taxing Time of Year, Part II
“Are You the Head of Your Household?” If you were unmarried at the end of a tax year and maintained a household for your child, parent or other qualifying relative you can file as “head [...]
It’s that Taxing Time of Year, Part I
“Who should claim a child?” According to the IRS, the parent who can claim the dependency exemption for a child on his or her tax return is the one designated the custodial parent by court [...]
Life Insurance
It’s a Matter of “Trust” When considering a legal separation or divorce, many people change the beneficiary on their life insurance policies from their soon-to-be former spouse to their children. While this may seem like [...]
Getting Married Again: Why you NEED a Prenuptial
“It’s All About Your Children” Many people believe that wanting a prenuptial agreement means that they are betting against their new marriage. But the real reason to have a prenuptial agreement prepared when getting remarried [...]
The Impact of College Expenses on Child Support
“The Child Goes to College But the Bills Stay Home” The law in New York requires the “non-custodial” parent to pay child support to the “custodial” parent until the child is 21 years old. This [...]
Guilt and Consequences
"Think before you take that Guilt Trip." Joe and Mary had been having marital difficulties for some time when they were referred to me by their marriage counselor. Though Joe did not agree, Mary had [...]
Be Careful Before You Say “I Do” Again
Social Security Benefits and Remarriage Social Security benefits are based upon the amount you earned during your lifetime. In order to be eligible for a benefit, you must pay into the system for at least [...]
New York’s No Fault Divorce Law
The Financial Settlement Agreement One of the reasons it took New York so long to pass a No Fault Divorce Law had to do with concerns that if one spouse was not first required to [...]