When someone comes in to meet with me because they want to modify or change their custody order or arrangement, I begin each FREE CONSULTATION with this question: What do you want the Court to do? This is the single most important question in a modification of custody matter. What do you want a new or …
The GOP tax bill signed by Trump late last year changed drastically how maintenance/alimony will be handled. One way the Republican tax bill writers tried to raise revenue to compensate for the cuts was through maintenance/alimony. Under the new bill, alimony paid by one spouse to the other will not be tax deductible, and the …
Considering Divorce? You Need a Divorce Plan! If you’re considering leaving your spouse, considering divorce, you need a solid divorce plan. So often people start consulting with their attorney only after the divorce process has begun and everyone is in the thick of things. I often say to clients that they should have come to …
Staying CHILD CENTERED is not as easy as one would think. For almost 30 years I have represented parents, grandparents, children and even myself in divorce and Family Law matters and putting our children first takes real work and constant attention. Why this is so important: First, because statements and facts that are not child …
Last month the New York State Appellate Division (Second Dept) rendered a decision in Repetti v. Repett which reminded us that the Court may direct a parent to contribute to a child’s college expenses, however, when college is several years away, and no evidence is presented as to the child’s academic interests, ability, possible choice …
“Unbundled” means you hire the attorney to handle only specific tasks, such as preparing the court documents or entering a limited appearance, and then you handle parts of the case on your own to save money. It claims that fewer billable hours means less cost. However, if your lawyer is only good for drafting documents …
I sat down to write a blog about why so many people are seeking a divorce after the first of the year. What I found was that this article by Patricia Barbarito stated my thoughts so perfectly that I wanted to share it with all of you. Key to her writing is her summary that… …
To all those who are surfing the internet regarding divorce, separation or custody at this time of year, please know that I understand how difficult a time this is for you and your family. It is a time of year when everything around you tells you how lucky and blessed you are and how happy …
Stacey O’Neill Balduf, Esq. a Syracuse Divorce Lawyer, wife and mother of a blended family herself, concentrates her practice specifically in divorce and family law.
