Tag: Alimony

In New York the word “maintenance” means alimony.

Breadwinner: Know The Divorce Laws

gmpGentlemen, let me confirm what you have long suspected: if you are the primary income earner in your family, particularly where your wife has stayed at home, be prepared to pay in your divorce.

For the most part, laws have consistently leaned towards protecting women who do not work, who set aside careers (or never start one) and raise children. These laws favor the idea that there is an inherent value in raising children and tending to the family. Continue reading "Breadwinner: Know The Divorce Laws" →

Dear Men: Divorce Guilt Can Break Your Bank

gmp

Andy was desperate: he owed more than half a million dollars in back child support and alimony and his ex-wife was seeking enforcement, including a violation for failure to pay, which would land him in jail for up to six months. They had been divorced for about ten years and at the time, he agreed to pay through the nose.

“I felt bad,” he explained. “I was the one leaving the marriage and at the time I was doing really well at work.” His guilt and a rushed desire to settle landed him with high payments and no assets (he gave her the house too). His payments became untenable when the economy soured and his job was cut.

This isn’t the only case where I’ve encountered this type of divorce guilt that can plague the male primary income earner — particularly when he’s the one seeking the divorce. Continue reading “Dear Men: Divorce Guilt Can Break Your Bank” →

FAQ series: default divorce; temporary maintenance (alimony); and time requirements for divorce

8279028

My answers to commonly asked questions.  Keep in mind: this does not constitute legal advice about your specific case; and, I’m not your lawyer until you pay me.

1. I served my spouse with papers, it’s been over 4 months since this has happened, what do I do now? Continue reading “FAQ series: default divorce; temporary maintenance (alimony); and time requirements for divorce” →