Many people consider taking the DIY route with estate planning to save on legal fees or gain more control over the process. However, this approach often leads to mistakes that can cost you and your loved ones later. Let's dive into the most common pitfalls in DIY...
When planning an estate, understanding the "5 by 5 rule" can provide significant flexibility for your beneficiaries. This rule applies to certain types of trusts, allowing individuals to withdraw assets in specific circumstances without triggering certain tax...
Infidelity is a common reason why marriages end, but its impact on divorce proceedings can vary. In New York, the courts follow specific guidelines when deciding if infidelity affects the outcome of a divorce. Understanding how infidelity plays a role can help...
A prenuptial agreement helps protect assets and clarify financial expectations in marriage. However, as life evolves, so do the circumstances that may affect this agreement. It’s essential to update your prenup to reflect changes in finances, family dynamics, and...
Dividing retirement assets, such as a 401k, is a necessary part of most divorce settlements. As with many other types of marital assets, New York's equitable distribution laws call for certain retirement assets to divide fairly between divorcing spouses. Since these...
Divorce introduces several changes in a family’s life, and a child's education is often one of the major concerns. Parents may wonder whether the child will need to switch schools due to new living arrangements. In Staten Island, decisions about a child’s school...
There’s no doubt about it; child custody issues complicate New York divorce proceedings, making this already emotional time even more challenging for everyone involved. Whether a judge grants shared custody between the parents or primary custody to one parent, it’s...
Divorce can be a complicated and emotional process, especially when it involves valuable assets like a cabin or summer house. In New York, handling these properties during a divorce requires understanding the legal aspects and making informed decisions. Determining...
When it comes to child custody, two important terms often come up: physical custody and legal custody. While these terms relate to each other, they refer to distinct aspects of parental responsibilities and rights. It is important to understand the difference before...
When a divorced parent wants to move to a different state, it can complicate custody arrangements. In many cases, divorced New Yorkers must seek post-judgment modifications to alter existing plans. Understanding custody law and the process of modifying your agreement...
