In North Carolina, our court system generally has an “open door” policy. In other words, the trial process in North Carolina is generally open to the public except in certain situations. This means that not only our trials open to the general public, but...
How do you thrive during this difficult time rather than just survive? With our Charlotte Shelter In Place order, so many are struggling to find a new “norm” day to day, week to week, until life returns to what we are used to. Ask those around you what their...
Once you have decided to divorce, there is an important first step. Stop. Second-guessing. Yourself. This is a journey through an admittedly unsettling adjustment. It doesn’t have to result in long lasting trauma. To help you to avoid unnecessary...
When considering the financial aspects of a divorce, every asset is worth a second look. In many cases, the parties have 529 plans for their children’s college education. In most mediated settlements, the parties put the 529 plan in the children’s column and there is...
The services of a collaborative divorce coach are often engaged to assist individuals, or couples, going through this difficult transition. A divorce coach can often help guide couples through the difficult negotiations of a settlement, while simultaneously addressing...
Divorcing collaboratively, instead of through litigation, has huge emotional benefits. When couples litigate there is typically more conflict involved and a lot more fear, & after effects, emotionally. One of the primary goals of the collaborative...
I recently attended a great continuing legal education seminar entitled “Managing High Conflict People: Advanced Skills for Family Law Professionals” presented by Bill Eddy. I learned a lot, especially regarding productive ways for folks who are going...
When court proceedings and the threat of court are removed from the settlement process, the creativity, range and durability of settlement options greatly expands. Most attorneys have had the experience of settling cases on the courtroom steps, or even after a trial...
Collaborative Law is a means of dispute resolution whereby the parties and their attorneys work together to resolve the issues without involving or threatening adversarial litigation. Clients may opt out of the Collaborative Law process at any time so long as the...
During the time that a couple is separated, and prior to the divorce decree, it can be quite confusing to determine how to file the income tax returns. There are many filing statuses that seem to be available, but how do you know which one is right for...
