Author Archives: Bridget Tartaglia
What Are Grandparents’ Rights?
Life-altering changes in the family, such as divorce, separation or the loss of a parent, can strain a relationship with grandparents. In other cases, the parents and grandparents may simply not appreciate a grandparent’s influence. In New York, grandparents have limited legal rights when it comes to seeking court-ordered visitation with their grandchildren—at least in… Read More »
What to Do When Your Divorce Involves Domestic Violence
Divorce is especially difficult if you are in a violent relationship. Your safety and the safety of your children should be your top priority. If you are experiencing domestic violence, take immediate steps to protect yourself and your kids: Seek safety: The most dangerous period for individuals in abusive relationships is when they decide to… Read More »
Parental Alienation During Divorce
Divorce is a difficult process, and when children are involved, emotions can run high. Unfortunately, some parents resort to destructive behaviors that can harm the parent-child relationship. This behavior, known as Parental Alienation Syndrome (PAS), occurs when one parent influences the child to reject the other parent. In severe cases, the child may completely reject… Read More »
What to Do When You Suspect Your Ex is Hiding Assets
Divorce is never an easy process, and it becomes even more challenging when one spouse tries to hide assets to avoid equitable distribution. However, there are legal tools available to help you uncover hidden income and assets during divorce proceedings. Here’s what to do: Gather financial records: Categorize assets as “marital” (acquired during the marriage),… Read More »
When Can Parental Rights Be Terminated?
Termination of parental rights is a legal process that permanently ends the rights of natural parents to their child, essentially freeing the child for adoption. This significant and often emotional decision is made to ensure the child’s safety, well-being and best interests. Filing a termination of parental rights petition A termination of parental rights petition… Read More »
Dividing Credit Card Points During Divorce
Dividing up assets during divorce can be challenging, and credit card points are often particularly difficult. While most people don’t think about credit card points as an asset, rewards can quickly add up. Unfortunately, many cards don’t allow owners to transfer points to someone else. What can you do? Separate or marital property? The first… Read More »
When to Consider Jewelry Appraisal During Divorce
Dividing marital assets can be a tough and often contentious process. However, it’s important for divorcing couples to understand the value of the assets they share. If you or your spouse own fine jewelry, it may be wise to have each piece appraised. Whether you choose to sell the jewelry and split the money or… Read More »
Why Women File for Divorce More Often Than Men
For decades, women have been more likely to file for divorce than men. What’s behind this trend? Here are some of the most common reasons women cite: Financial independence: Women started working outside the home and have had access to credit and bank accounts relatively recently. Without access to income, it’s much harder to leave… Read More »
Adoption and Other Considerations for Same-Sex Couples
Expanding your family is often an exciting time. When it’s not possible for one or both parents to be biologically related to a child, adoption or assisted reproduction allows couples to bring a child into their family. Although same-sex couples are allowed to adopt or birth children in the state of New York, the adoption… Read More »
Divorce, the Family Home and How Your Kids Could Be Affected
Deciding what to do with the family home is tough when it’s just you and your ex. When you have kids, it can be even more complicated. Should you sell, keep or share the family home, and how might it affect the children? It’s important to note that many couples have no choice but to… Read More »