Most of us don’t have the option of buying a home during the process of divorce due to financial constraints. But while a fortunate few may have the resources to afford the down payment, mortgage payments, property taxes and upkeep, careful thought should still be given to this idea. Going through a divorce is highly stressful. You are likely experiencing a wide variety of emotions right now, … [Read more...]
The many faces of divorce mediation in Houston
Few couples seeking divorce in the greater Houston area realize that their divorces will most likely never get to the courtroom. Instead, most will participate in one or more formal or informal mediation sessions during their divorce process. This is primarily due to the fact that Houston family courts are backed up with cases and now require divorcing couples to try mediation in order to settle … [Read more...]
New tax law may impact your divorce in 2018
The ink is barely dry on the "Tax Cuts and Jobs Act" which both houses of Congress passed on Dec. 20, 2017, yet, accountants are scrambling to figure out how the 500-page law will affect their clients this year. Most can't believe this complicated and confusing law is effective immediately. "We don't have a year to figure it out," said one notable tax expert. And some are warning the new law … [Read more...]
Facing divorce? Don’t dread the holidays — prepare instead
If you are considering divorce in 2018, you are probably dreading the approaching holidays. Let's face it, no one wants to acknowledge marital discord when the theme is "joy" and "good cheer." As the New Year approaches, consider focusing now on preparation and planning for what lies ahead. Here are some steps you can take during the holidays that will lay the ground work for a more productive … [Read more...]
Four ways to get divorced in Texas, part 4 — traditional litigation
As I understand it, less than five percent of divorces in Harris County, Texas, actually go to court where a judge makes the final decision. This is likely because in most family law courts in Texas, there is a rule that couples must attend mediation before a trial can be set to decide the case. Many couples soon realize as they go through the divorce process and mediation, that going to court … [Read more...]
Four ways to get divorced, Part 3 — Collaborative Divorce in Texas
Couples facing divorce may want to explore a relatively new option for legally ending marriage in Texas called Collaborative Divorce. This very distinct model emphasizes cooperation over confrontation, and problem-solving over grievance-airing. It was developed as a way to reduce conflict and the emotional anguish of a traditional divorce process, especially when children are involved. In the … [Read more...]