Family and Matrimonial

How family law mediation can help parties break cycles of powerlessness, escalation and conflict

Attorney Avery K. Druyon explores the unique processes and expectations when navigating family law cases within Tribal Court systems. This webinar provides essential guidance for understanding jurisdictional differences and procedural requirements in Tribal Court family law matters.

When should a Guardian ad Litem be appointed in a family law case, and what can parents expect during the investigation process? This guide explores the role of GALs in custody disputes, the circumstances that warrant their appointment, and practical steps for preparing for interviews and home visits.

How family law mediation can help parties break cycles of powerlessness, escalation and conflict

When should a Guardian ad Litem be appointed in a family law case, and what can parents expect during the investigation process? This guide explores the role of GALs in custody disputes, the circumstances that warrant their appointment, and practical steps for preparing for interviews and home visits.

A Washington Court of Appeals ruled that a former spouse was entitled to keep $373,000 from her ex-husband's retirement account because she remained the designated beneficiary after their divorce. The decision demonstrates how federal ERISA law can override state divorce statutes and highlights the critical importance of updating beneficiary designations following major life events.

Milbank LLP attorneys examine the implications of New York's pied-à-terre tax for common estate planning structures and situations, analyzing the basic mechanics of the surcharge and discussing key ambiguities in the statute. The article explores potential pitfalls that practitioners should consider when advising clients on property ownership and estate planning in New York.

When a child turns 18, parents lose automatic legal authority to make medical and financial decisions on their behalf, creating an unexpected gap in estate planning. Three essential documents—a durable power of attorney, health care proxy, and HIPAA authorization—can bridge this gap and ensure parents can assist their adult children when needed.

Washington State's Deadman's Statute bars interested parties from testifying about conversations or transactions with deceased individuals in estate litigation. Understanding when this evidentiary rule applies, what testimony it excludes, and how it can be waived is critical for anyone involved in probate or trust disputes where private agreements or oral promises are at issue.