The Heart of the Matter

Our blog presents noteworthy information and articles direct from our founding attorney.

Robyn in Front of Bookcase

Kickstart Guide to Property Division During a Divorce

Property Division during divorce

During this unprecedented time, the effects of Covid-19 and the home isolation most of us are weathering will put many marriages to the test. Research tells us that the kind of stressors involved in 24/7 togetherness amplify existing cracks or highlight the strengths of our intimate relationships. For those considering separation, becoming acquainted with the […]

Preparing for Child Custody Mediation

Preparing for Child Custody Mediation

Child custody mediation is a process by which you can work together with your co-parent and a neutral mental health professional to develop a parenting plan that is right for your children. Just like Alexander Graham Bell taught us, preparation is the key to success. And success in the context of child custody mediation means […]

Three Unique Facts About Divorce in California

3 Unique Facts When It Comes to a California Divorce

If you are planning to get divorced in California, but know nothing about it — there are a few key facts you will want to consider at the outset. To begin the proceedings, you must meet the mandatory minimum residency requirement. At least one spouse must reside in the state for six or more months […]

Grandparents Rights: Do You Have Rights to Visitation?

Grandparents Rights: Do You Have Rights to Visitation?

As a grandparent, do you have the legal right to visit with your grandchildren? With growing frequency, we are seeing heart-wrenching custody contests between grandparents and parents depicted in movies and television dramas. But what does the law provide? Do different states apply different legal standards? What if one or both parents oppose visitation? While […]

When a Child Refuses Visitation with a Non-Custodial Parent

When Can a Child Refuse Visitation with a Non-Custodial Parent

Whether by agreement or court order, a visitation schedule alternating the physical timeshare between parents will exist at some point in a divorce. This so-called timeshare calendar is presumed to be in the “best interests” of the children involved. But what happens if a child refuses to cooperate with the schedule the grown-ups have deemed […]

Your Guide to Pet Custody in Divorce

When a marriage ends, everything is divided. But what about the family pets that both spouses want? For most pet owners I know, pets are family. The thought of losing them on top of the other setbacks in a divorce is a heartbreaker. But what if your soon-to-be-ex-spouse feels the same way? Is pet custody […]

Distinguishing Between Legal Separation & Divorce

Benefits of Legal Separation Versus Divorce

Is divorce the only option when a marriage breaks down? Are you leaning toward divorce but want to know if there is a middle ground? Depending on your circumstances, a legal separation may be worth exploring. While offering nearly identical financial protections, a legal separation may provide a few benefits. Let’s take a look at […]

How to Negotiate College Payment between Divorcing Parents

negotiating college payment between divorced parents

College is expensive, and the costs will no doubt continue to rise. Even if your child is not of college age, you are smart to consider these anticipated expenses at the time of your divorce. Do not wait until acceptance letters start arriving to address college payments with your ex-spouse. Negotiate the cost of college […]

Getting Divorced: Commonly Asked Questions Answered

Divorce can be a challenging emotional, as well as financial, process, and the desire to complete the process in a discrete, affordable way is a priority for many. How long does it take to get a divorce? Can you settle your divorce outside of court? Will the divorce records be available to the public? Let’s […]