Same-Sex Divorce

If you thought that the fight for same-sex marriage was difficult, now that same-sex marriage has been legalized in New York and several other states, until it is recognized by the federal government, there are going to be many complications—the most important one being divorce. New York State’s law, for example, allows same-sex marriage not […]

Deadbeat Husband

On February 9, 2011 Congressman Steve Cohen from Tennessee reintroduced Jane’s Law, a bipartisan measure that was crafted to close a legal loophole that enables people to avoid paying court-orderd property distributions by crossing state lines. The measure was named after Jane Maharam, who has been fighting since 1983 to force her ex-husband to return […]

Formula for Alimony

Family Court judges have needed a formula to avoid unfair settlements, because the amounts and payment schedules are usually decided by them. Judges are on their own in deciding how to prioritize the various factors and how to translate them into dollar amounts—resulting in wildly inconsistent alimony awards. The unpredictability of alimony rules imposes unnecessary costs.  […]

Checklist for Selecting a Divorce Attorney

Anyone who is faced with the challenge of going through a divorce is at a stressful time in their life and needs the best assistance that they can get. One of the most essential parts to a successful divorce case is locating and hiring the right divorce attorney for your case. This is critical because […]

Senior Marriage

Romance is wonderful, especially for a “senior”—but marriage has to be thought out carefully. The financial implications are the most important thing to consider.  Living together without getting married may make the most sense. But if marriage is what you want, you have to have serious financial discussions before you take the step. Proof of your income, […]

Digital Flirting

Technology has created new rules for romance—which may lead to the path of infidelity.  Digital flirting is easy to do and easier to get caught!  Online flirtations and provocative photos are becoming the norm among some adults. The social networks—Facebook, Twitter and Skype video chats make it easy to flirt with strangers and engage in sexual fantasy without (technically) breaking […]

Marriage and the IRS

After you get married, be sure to notify the IRS if you are changing your name (not everyone does).  Also advise them of a change in your address if you are moving.  You can miss getting your tax refund if they don’t have the correct address. Marriage can result in numerous tax changes.  If you are […]

Married Couples

The Census Bureau has reported that in 2010 only 48 percent of American households were represented by married couples.  This is the first time that figure has dropped below 50 percent.  This is down from 78 percent in 1950—the days of “Ozzie and Harriet” are gone.  Just a fifth of households were traditional families—married couples […]