Helping people through the pain and process of divorce.
Welcome to the New York Divorce and Family Law blog. I am Faith G. Miller, an attorney and certified financial litigator (CFL) skilled in all aspects of New York divorce and family law. I serve clients in Westchester County, NY, New York City, and the surrounding areas, with 18 attorneys in offices in both White Plains and Manhattan.
I created this blog as a way to share helpful information and provide answers to commonly asked questions for people who may feel overwhelmed by the process and the issues involved.
Whether you are thinking about a divorce, in the process of one, already divorced and in need of counsel, or have custody, support, abuse, neglect, relocation or financial concerns, I can help.
Is it domestic violence if there is no physical abuse?
“Intimate partner violence” (IPV) can occur among current and formers spouses as well as dating partners. IPV affects millions of people in the U.S. every year and causes damage ranging from missed work days and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) to substance abuse and heart problems. According to the CDC’s definition, IPV is abuse or aggression that occurs in a romantic relationship; it can vary in severity and frequency. Even one episode of IPV counts. IPV can include the following:
· Physical violence. A person hurts or tries to hurt a partner by hitting, kicking, or using another type of physical force.
· Sexual violence. A person forces or attempts to force a partner to take part in a sex act, sexual touching, sexual humiliation, or a non-physical sexual event (like sexting) when the partner does not or cannot consent.
· Stalking. A person inflicts repeated, unwanted contact and/or attention on a partner; these intrusions harass and frighten the victim and can also raise safety concerns for someone close to them.
· Psychological aggression. A person uses verbal and non-verbal communication with the intent to harm a partner mentally or emotionally and/or to exert control over a partner. Emotional abuse can also be a precursor to physical violence.
What is a Forensic Psychologist?
A forensic psychologist’s expertise relies on data based on investigation and well-established research in the field. As they examine the weighty issues presented in the proceeding, they may use some of the following methods to gather their data to arrive at their assessment, according to the APA:
· psychological testing of parents
· clinical interviews
· behavioral observation
· documentation from other sources, such as schools, healthcare providers, and childcare providers
· interviews with collateral sources, including extended family members, friends, and acquaintances
Why a Deposition Can Make or Break a Divorce Case
A Deposition Can Make or Break a Divorce Case
What is Gaslighting?
Not surprisingly, a bad marriage or the threat of divorce can ratchet up gaslighting. If you’ve sensed your spouse is gaslighting you, you’re not alone. Here are some forms gaslighting can take.
What is Legal Separation?
Why choose a legal separation instead of a divorce? Some couples opt for legal separation to avoid the finality of divorce, but every couple is different. See if this option is right for you.
Separate Property: What You Need to Know
In New York divorces, there are three categories of property: marital, separate and those that contain components of both. Every divorce is different and the value of assets and property can be difficult to pinpoint, even in amicable divorces.
The Role of the Attorney for the Child
To avoid putting your children in the middle of your divorce and risking an unwanted outcome, it’s crucial to hire an attorney who can help you understand and advocate for what is in your child’s best interests.
Winners, Losers, and Divorce
Winning and losing looks a lot different in divorce law than it does in other types of legal challenges.
The New Normal: Divorce, the Holidays, and the COVID Pandemic
There has been a lot of talk about “the new normal” when discussing the COVID pandemic this year — especially for divorced or divorcing couples.
The Reality of Divorce for Men
Studies actually show men struggle more than women do during and after divorce. Here’s a look at why.
Is Trump Troubling Your Marriage?
More than one out of 10 Americans have ended relationships due to political clashes specifically tied to Trump. That includes marriage.
Living on Your Own Terms
Life After Divorce: It’s time to start living, not just on your own, but on your own terms.
Understanding Child Neglect
The legal term is Derivative Neglect of a Child. What does the Court consider to be child neglect? Let’s look at some examples.
What is Family Law?
Divorce Law involves a married couple divorcing. In New York State, the Supreme Court handles divorces and related matters. Family Law involves matters affecting non-married couples and individuals as well as married couples. The Family Court, not the Supreme Court, handles these matters.
New Child Custody Issues Arise During COVID-19
A COVID stipulation provides stronger protection for the child’s health and best interests, and applies to parents currently divorcing as well as those already divorced with an access schedule in place.
Rebuilding Your Life After Divorce
Divorce is an enormous transition in anyone’s life. At some point, you may experience feelings of sadness and loneliness, but you may also feel relieved. Minimizing negative feelings and boosting the positive ones are key to building your new life.
Divorce in the Time of Coronavirus
Lockdown stress has spurred a surge in the demand for divorce in New York City, Westchester County, and around the country.
Divorce Process at a Glance
Contemplating divorce, or inching toward it, is itself a huge step. Here’s a step-by-step preview of the early-going.
Handling Emotions During Divorce
Regardless of how you experience your divorce, it’s important to keep in mind that even when emotions run high, keeping them in check during divorce negotiations is key to success.
Contact us.
Fgm@mzw-law.com
(914) 455-1000
140 Grand Street, Suite 503
White Plains, NY 10601
150 E 52nd Street
New York, NY 10022