The ending of a marriage is one of the most challenging events a human being can go through. The split affects every area of your life—family, finances, friendships, and plans. Divorce is associated with stress levels comparable to the death of a spouse or loved one. The life-changing event profoundly impacts physical and mental…
Just before the 4th of July holiday, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed a new bill into law that set off some big fireworks among his divorced constituents—some celebratory and some outraged. After years of heated controversy and vetoing several similar bills (most recently in 2022), DeSantis has enacted a measure to overhaul alimony in…
The relationship between grandparent and grandchild can be among life’s most special, close, and rewarding bonds. Grandparents are often a tremendous source of fun and surprises, love and affection, support and comfort—and happy memories that will be treasured forever. Today, grandparents are often integral to a child’s upbringing in more than emotional ways. Although…
Over many decades, portrayals of divorce (real and fictional) in media and entertainment have reflected and affected our view of it. Those depictions may impact couples and families going through a divorce—in helpful or harmful ways. Everyone is familiar with the “War of the Roses”-style divorce: a flat-out, no-holds-barred burn-it-all-down battle. Then there’s the…
Divorce is a messy, painful, complex, contentious process that does not always bring out the best in people. In a community property state such as California, all assets accumulated between the date of marriage and the date of separation are divided equally in a divorce. Despite a few exceptions for certain types of gifts, inheritances, assets…
The lazy, hazy days of summer have arrived! You want your child to have a fun, relaxing break from school, with time to play and get outside, see friends, take some lessons, or go to sleep-away camp. Perhaps you’re looking forward to visiting extended family or friends, planning a trip to some exciting locale,…
Although it’s still out of the mainstream, the FIRE movement is becoming more popular, especially among millennials and the Silicon Valley tech industry. FIRE stands for Financial Independence, Retire Early. Adherents commit to a program of extreme savings and investment—often severe frugality—to gain the financial freedom to retire early and the flexibility to live…
Divorce is often complex and emotionally charged, especially when famous, high-net-worth individuals are involved. Prenuptial agreements, commonly referred to as “prenups,” are legal contracts that can help protect the assets and interests of both parties in the event of a divorce. These agreements are intended to clarify and avoid lengthy disputes over property division….
During the painful and complicated divorce process, it sometimes seems like everything is falling apart. It’s easy to feel lost in the many variables and uncertainties. Things are even thornier—logistically and emotionally—for couples with children. As hard as divorce is for adults, it’s important to remember that all this upheaval can make a child…
For many divorcing couples, dividing assets is a complex and contentious process. Besides financial value, belongings often have emotional significance—especially when trying to untangle what belongs to whom and who should get what at the end of a marriage. These are not small matters—your divorce settlement will seriously impact your life and financial outlook…
