Divorce can be a challenging and emotional journey, especially during the holiday season. However, it's essential to approach this time with a positive mindset and a willingness to create new traditions that foster a sense of unity and cooperation. As a seasoned family law mediator and collaborative attorney, I have witnessed countless families not only surviving divorce but thriving by embracing the opportunity to redefine their holiday celebrations. In this article, we will explore the importance of celebrating holidays during divorce, share tips on creating new traditions, and offer guidan ..read more

Make it stand out In California, where wealth can fluctuate frequently, family law, particularly spousal support, becomes more contentious and complicated. There may be income from numerous sources such as business, assets, investments and rental income. High net worth families often find themselves entangled in a web of financial complexities during divorce proceedings. In this article, we'll explore the nuances of spousal support in California, shedding light on the strategies that families can employ to maintain privacy over their assets. Additionally, we'll delve into the merits of collab ..read more

When deciding whether to file for divorce or legal separation, there are a few factors to consider. This article breaks down the key differences between the two processes. In California, the divorce process is EXACTLY the same process as a Legal Separation, the forms are the same and the process is the same.  In a Legal Separation, the Judgment will contain orders for child custody, support and property division as if there was a Divorce case filed.  At the end of the process, the Couple will remain married and at the end of the Divorce, the couple will be restored to the status of ..read more

 Divorce is inherently challenging, but when one spouse has Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD), the complexities and emotional intensity can be significantly amplified. However, collaborative divorce offers a path to resolution that can yield numerous benefits when dealing with a spouse with NPD, commonly referred to as a “narc” or “narcissist”. In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of collaborative divorce and explore how it can be a preferred method for divorces involving individuals with NPD.  Understanding Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD)  Narcissi ..read more

Are you wondering why anyone would want to have a postmarital agreement? While it may not be the most romantic topic, postmarital agreements, also known as postnuptial agreements or a postnup, can provide a host of benefits and serve as a valuable tool in managing your marital and financial future. In this article, we'll explore five compelling reasons why you and your spouse might want to consider a postmarital agreement.  1. Clarifying Financial Expectations  One of the primary reasons couples opt for postmarital agreements is to clarify their financial expectations. In some insta ..read more

An Amicable divorce offers a variety of financial benefits that can significantly impact the financial well-being of the divorcing parties and their families. In this section, we will delve into three key financial advantages of choosing an amicable divorce over a contentious, litigated one: lower legal fees, preservation of assets, and simplified financial planning. Lower Legal Fees  One of the most immediate and noticeable financial advantages of an amicable divorce is the significant reduction in legal fees. Traditional litigated divorces often involve protracted court battles, extens ..read more

Were your children at the heart of your every decision when you and your coparent were together?  There should be no reason that this should change especially during the challenging times of divorce and the hustle and bustle of back-to-school season.   As parents, it's natural to put our children's well-being first, but amidst the complexities of divorce, it can be easy to lose sight of their needs and start to think of the “rights” of each parent. Children often become weaponized or put in the middle of the struggles between their parents. In this blog post, we'll explore how you c ..read more

Spousal support can be difficult to calculate and can become a challenging issue in a divorce. Spousal support issues become even more intricate when one spouse has multiple sources of income from several businesses or receives commissions and/or bonuses or has income from various assets. In such cases, it is essential to approach spousal support with a fair and equitable mindset as well as come up with an accurate understanding of what the income is as well as considering income with the division of assets. By exploring alternative avenues to resolve support issues outside of court, couples ..read more

Divorce can be a challenging and emotionally charged process, especially when it involves complex asset division and couples with businesses or high wage earners. In such cases, dividing assets and support calculations can become complex and contentious. However, there are alternative approaches to traditional court proceedings that can offer an amicable and private solution. Collaborative divorce, a process focused on cooperation and open communication, can help protect your assets while prioritizing the well-being of your children. In this article, we will explore strategies for dividing pr ..read more

Mediation: A Pathway to Peaceful Resolutions in Divorce Contrary to popular belief, Divorce doesn't have to be synonymous with conflict and animosity. Mediation offers a pathway to finding harmony and peaceful resolutions amid a difficult life transition. In this article, we will explore the power of mediation in divorce and how it can transform the divorce experience for individuals and families. 1. Effective Communication: Mediation places a strong emphasis on effective communication between divorcing spouses. With the guidance of a skilled mediator, couples can engage in constructive dialo ..read more