If you give someone an unconditional gift, it unequivocally becomes their property. If they then take this property into a marriage, it is still a separate asset because they owned it before the marriage. If the couple then gets divorced, that person can keep their...
If you and your spouse are getting divorced and you own a home, then you’ll need to determine what to do with it if the state considers to be community property rather than separate property. A number of things make the family home a bit more complicated than most...
Dividing assets under community property laws can be intricate. Recognizing potential complexities in advance can help you take steps to resolve issues effectively. Here are some indicators that you may be in for a complicated property division process when divorcing...
We recently discussed how divorce rates tend to go up in January. This can linger a bit into the spring months. Many people tend to get divorced at the beginning of the year, perhaps because they have gotten through the winter holidays or just because it seems like...
Deciding to end a marriage is already a difficult decision, but what happens if your spouse refuses to comply and won't sign the divorce papers? Many fear an uncooperative partner can stop the process entirely, leaving them in legal limbo. While a signature might be...
Divorce is often complex, both legally and emotionally. However, the process can be made more difficult by hidden assets. Some divorcing spouses will attempt to decrease their soon-to-be ex’s share of assets by hiding them. It goes against the principles of community...
Some people are afraid to ask their partner if they can use a prenuptial agreement when getting married. They may know that this type of document could be very beneficial, especially if one of them is bringing substantial financial assets into the marriage. A prenup...
Military service puts pressure on marital relationships in unique ways. One spouse may have a very demanding schedule. Their career path can make family life unpredictable. Frequent relocations, isolation from extended family and even secrecy can negatively impact...
As a general rule, you can never deny visitation or custody rights. Once there is a court order stating that the other parent has a right to see their child, you must follow that court order. It doesn’t matter if you and your ex aren’t on good terms. It doesn’t even...
If infidelity is the reason behind the breakdown of your marriage, you may wonder if it will impact your divorce proceedings. Will the settlement be skewed against the spouse who stepped out of the marriage? Will any of it matter in divorce court? Here’s what you...