Many of the women who come to my office seeking counsel appear broken, with little self-esteem and no avenue of independent financial support. They have become prisoners in their own marriages and don’t know how to change their circumstances, because they no longer have the financial means, let alone the emotional strength, to do so. Perhaps the saddest part of the situation is that many of these women may never have had to walk into…
advice
DEAR LESLIE, How comparable is a domestic union to a marriage? – Do We Add Up… Dear Do We Add Up…, A domestic union and a marriage, which is a legally recognized domestic union, have partners that are genuinely committed to each other both emotionally and usually financially. In some cases, a domestic union can’t be a legal marriage, but that does not alter the level of commitment between the partners. However, in a domestic…
DEAR LESLIE, How does the law navigate the divorce proceeding of an open marriage? – Ms. Open Minded Dear Ms. Open Minded…, When a couple decides to get married, they are making a legal commitment in the eyes of the law that is considered monogamous, unless you live in a state that permits polygamy. The marriage commitment is both emotional and financial. When a couple decides to divorce, it is the division of the couple’s…
DEAR LESLIE, I’m getting married. What can I do to keep present and future assets protected in the event of a divorce? – #staysafe Dear #staysafe, When contemplating marriage, it is crucial to consider the person you are at the time and how to protect your individuality. This does not mean that you love the person that you are marrying any less; it just means that you are mature enough to keep your own identity…
DEAR LESLIE, What are three tell-tale signs of a good divorce lawyer? – I’m Curious… Dear, I’m Curious…, This is a great question, Caryn. Choosing a good divorce lawyer as well as the right divorce lawyer to represent you is very important as your lawyer will be your voice throughout the process. Hiring a divorce lawyer that is good at accomplishing your goals will depend on the type of divorce lawyer you choose to represent…