Up until the court formally decides custody and visitation – or, alternatively, the parties enter into a signed custody agreement – there’s no formal child custody, visitation, or child support. For many couples, especially the ones that stay together (regardless of whether they’re married), that’s enough and it doesn’t go further than that. Even for...
After I had my babies, I remember being shocked at how quickly personnel from the hospital came by to make sure that I had arranged to pay my bill, that I knew it wasn’t wise to shake a baby, and to fill out the information needed to complete the birth certificate. I never saw a...
Coparenting is hard. It’s probably especially hard when it’s new and when everyone is still reeling from the shock of the break up, separation, or divorce. It’s hard, too, when holidays are coming up, when a new significant other is introduced, or when big changes (like a move or a new job) are on the...
It’s probably no secret to you that an attorney isn’t necessary in absolutely every case ever. In some cases, there’s really no need to hire an attorney – as I was reminded yesterday in a conversation that I had with a really sweet prospective client. The thing is, though, that it’s really hard to...
One of the most common questions we get is about living together after separation. Specifically, can one of you – usually, the one with the upper hand – force the other to move out? Whether you own or rent your home, whether you’re the higher earning spouse or the lower earning spouse, the answer is...
Kids get hurt sometimes, despite our best efforts to keep them safe. When I was a kid, my younger sister once knocked out her front teeth at school in a game of crab soccer. Another time, she fell while climbing over our fence to get a ball for the dog, and needed a ton of...
We’ve all – at one point or another – dated someone who was less than suitable. Hey, I’m a divorce lawyer; I kind of specialize in unsuitable partners! But, sometimes, it’s less about the person than the timing of the relationship. During a custody case is a tricky time to date. I’m not saying you...