Domestic violence is often unreported and under recognized
Violence among intimate partners is a common problem that often goes unrecognized and unreported across the country. A study revealed that in addition to routine screening procedures, radiologists could assist in identifying those who suffer from domestic violence. In California, hospital staff can play a significant role in uncovering abuse. Doctors assume an essential role looking […]
Spousal benefits from Social Security after a divorce
A substantial part of income for retirees comes from Social Security benefits. After years of paying into the program, there is no reason to settle for less than the highest amount one can get. Sometimes, one spouse may receive a higher benefit than the other. In California and other states, ex-wives or husbands may be […]
Advanced financial planning is essential before divorce
January has been deemed the most popular month for married couples to split up. Records show that divorce filings are one third higher in January than in other months because couples do not want to ruin holiday celebrations. In California and other states, the first week in January usually sees a substantial uptake in divorce inquiries. Most couples […]
New parenting bill may add a twist to child custody
When couples decide to end their relationship, it often involves children and a parenting agreement. For years, American culture dictated that mothers were naturally awarded primary custody and fathers were the every-other-weekend parents. In California and many other states, new shared-parenting bills could change child custody and visitation agreements. This new trend of co-parenting will encourage shared-parenting […]
Stepmom takes the best interest of the child to heart
A new bride vowed to love, honor and cherish her new husband and her new stepson. She also vowed to do the same regarding the child’s mother. During her marriage ceremony, the bride pledged her vows to her husband and included his former girlfriend and the son they have together in her new life and […]
Soldier fights for child custody while serving his country
There is no greater heartache for a parent than being thousands of miles away from his or her child. Even worse is a soldier fighting for his country overseas and struggling to maintain custody of his son here in the states. In California, there are laws in place that allow service members to designate temporary child […]
Spousal Support tax relief ends in 2019 with overhaul
A proposed tax overhaul was delivered to President Donald Trump who promptly signed it into law. The tax plan is set to touch every facet of life, including spousal support. The 75–year old tax deduction, sacred to those who pay alimony, will be scrapped effective January 1, 2019. In California and every other state, divorce negotiations […]
Smart decisions about marital assets during divorce
When a marriage ends, it can be both emotionally and financially crippling. It may be so painful that one cannot think clearly about making critical financial decisions. Dividing household contents, the marital home, bank accounts and vehicles, can take a toll on all parties involved. In California, proper planning can help safeguard assets during a divorce to […]
Potential pitfalls for divorce over 50
Studies show that one in four couples will end their marriage after the age of 50. Compare that to twenty years ago when one in 10 couples with a spouse over the age of 50 divorced. Some experts agree that with the surge in late-in-life break-ups, so-called gray divorces have become like an epidemic. In California, […]
Child support and the rising gig economy
Contract work is making it easy for parents to avoid paying the necessary and court-ordered support payment to their children. It is causing problems for the parents who are trying to get paid as well as for state officials who are trying to collect it. Approximately 70 percent of child support money is collected through paycheck withholdings, […]