No Gavel
There are several misconceptions about the Family Court. The one that is most bothersome is the belief that once the case is over the conflict is over. The (former) couple gets all dressed up, all worried, all stressed, and all…
The Best Interests of the Children
By Guest Blogger I am currently at the point in my Family Court case where I find almost everything about it funny. I’ve learned to not even pay attention to any motion or objection placed against me, because what does…
Should I Collect Against My Spouse’s Social Security Benefits in Our Divorce?
For couples that have been married for ten years or longer a divorce means an assessment of social security benefits. Under the current law, the spouse that has earned less income during the marriage has an option. He or she…
The Mirror Method Approach to Family Court Advocacy
I had wonderful mentors when I first started practicing law. I was taught early on that, when it came to contested legal matters and the zealous advocacy of clients, a lawyer should always try the "honey and sugar" approach before…
My Cousin Got the Lambo and the Iguana in Her Divorce…
If you ever really want to piss off a divorce attorney (boy, who doesn’t?!) compare your divorce to someone else’s. We love this. Really, we love this. Let’s say you and your hubby have been married for four years. You…
The Toxic Swamp of the Family Court (This is How it Works, People…)
You’ve just found yourself lucky enough to be a party in a case in Family Court. If you happen to be the defendant that was just served with a summons, you’re probably thinking, “Oh, what the $#&%@.” If you happen…
How to Get Arrested at Your Child Custody Hearing
Recently I found myself in a rather unusual, uncomfortable position. For a Family Court attorney that is not so surprising. This time was a bit different, however. In the midst of a child custody hearing to determine whether a Grandmother…
I Want All of the Custody!
Fairly often now I am told by a parent of a newborn or infant that they want sole custody. And often this request comes innocently enough by a parent who probably doesn’t know exactly what they are asking for and hasn't…
On Divorce and Misery
Humor me here. What if your everyday ennui - your daily dread - ISN'T your spouse’s fault. What if it’s not your spouse who is MAKING you miserable and is just along for the ride. Sure, sometimes they certainly don’t…
Don’t Make This Common Child Custody Mistake!
There are countless mistakes that are made by both parties in any typical, run-of-the-mill child custody proceeding. Maybe the father fails a drug screen. Or the mother violates a current Order by refusing father a scheduled visit. Both parents discuss…