New York Women’s Rights Lawyer
Evaluate the Nature of Your Divorce Settlement
All women considering divorce should remember a number of key points. First, a settlement that appears equal but is not particularly liquid may make for hard times in the future. For example, if a wife receives the house when marital property is distributed—an illiquid asset—and her husband receives investments—which are generally more liquid—she may have a hard time keeping the house. Maintaining a house requires cash flow, which can present a significant challenge for many former wives.
Consider the Tax Consequences of Your Settlement
Secondly, it is important for women to remember that tax consequences can greatly affect the value of a settlement. For example, the rules on retirement accounts can be complicated. When a large portion of the settlement is in retirement assets, the recipient should have knowledge about the potential tax ramifications and penalties. A Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) can be used to transfer money to a former spouse without penalty, which is something you should discuss with your lawyer.
Remember that Your Debts Will Also Be Divided
Additionally, women should remember that, when they file for divorce, they will divide more than just their assets – they may also divide their debts. Creditors don’t care about the terms and conditions of a separation agreement. They want their money, and they will not hesitate to go after both spouses to get it. For this reason, it would be wise for spouses to negotiate these details in a divorce settlement between themselves.
Protect Your Financial Security with a Life Insurance Policy
Finally, a woman would be well-advised to include a provision in her divorce settlement detailing the need for her former spouse to carry life insurance. This can help safeguard her own financial security, as well as that of her children, in the event that her former spouse dies an untimely death. Life insurance can be used to insure the payment of child support, alimony, and property settlements.
Contact our team at Lois M. Brenner, Esq. (646) 663-4546 for more information.
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I met Lois Brenner at a networking group. She spoke on divorce and mediation. At the time I was not in need of a divorce attorney but was so impressed I kept her information. Two years later I hired Lois Brenner and I am finally separated from a man who nearly destroyed my life. Although we were able to do this with her in mediation, it was not easy for me. She really kept me strong, and on top of myself. She was helpful with both of us, and encouraged each of us when needed. It was much better than going through the court system. It took a lot less time and saved us money too. I can’t say enough about her. She is a special attorney. I tell everyone who will listen how special she is.- Pilar
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“First, you were so easy to talk to and second, you really know what you are doing!”- Sharon
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“Keep up the good work!”- Jonathan
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"Like at First Sight!" We consulted Lois on the best, most cost-effective way to get divorced. First, she extended a free in-office consultation to us. It was supposed to be one hour; it was an hour and a half. She was gracious, didn’t rush us, explained thoroughly all the ins and outs of going to court, and answered thoroughly lots of our questions. She also shared lots of great information on divorce mediation, which we really knew nothing about, and now we have decided mediation will be the best route for us. We knew in the first 10 minutes that we really liked and trusted her. We are starting our mediation process with her next week. We are really looking forward to working with her. We feel strongly she is the best person for us.- Jen
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“We saved thousands of dollars!”- Gloria
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I had a complicated situation wherein I had to get a divorce through publication as my husband and I had not been in contact for 5 years and I was out of the US for a few years. (it was an abusive marriage) I reside in Buffalo and I spoke with several attorneys locally but I did not feel that any of the local attorneys were able able to understand my situation. Some suggested that I locate my husband, and each one of them wanted to start by identifying and listing the assets. Unsatisfied, I started looking for attorneys in NY city, and I found Ms. Brenner through Avvo. During the consultation, she was extremely kind and understanding and agreed to take on my case. Ms. Brenner helped me get a divorce through publication and she/her team took care of everything. All I had to do was provide her with documentation. I am grateful to Ms. Brenner for helping me get out of a sticky stressful situation. I would definitely recommend her to anybody in a similar situation. Thank you, Ms. Brenner.
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Lois is unlike any attorney I've worked with. Her understanding of the mental health side of my custody case was what ultimately made the difference. Absolutely exceptional.- J.W.
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I had read about Lois’ unusual divorce method in one of her blog posts. It was refreshing to see someone was working with the psychological issues in divorce. My husband is bipolar and getting him to agree to a divorce and commit to the process was tough. When we met with Lois she really understood him. She immediately identified his mental health issues, and because she has a psych background, she was empathetic to his needs and was skillful at guiding him through her divorce mediation process. It took a while but she really got us to a point where we could actually discuss things without my husband blowing up. Her method is unique and it really helped in our situation. She actually recommended a great psychiatrist who changed my husband’s meds at her urging (she has a medical degree too), and my husband is coping much better. We can’t thank her enough for her compassion and advice! If you need a divorce attorney, especially if mental illness is a part of the fabric of your marriage, go see Lois! Thanks Lois - Lorna P.
