Category Archives: Jean Mahserjian Blog

Filing for Divorce in January: Why So Many Do It and What to Expect

Filing for Divorce in January: Why So Many Do It and What to Expect

January marks the beginning of a fresh year and often a new chapter in people’s lives, which is why it’s such a popular time for filing for divorce. Whether prompted by the emotional strain of the holiday season or a desire to start anew, January consistently sees an uptick in divorce filings. Understanding the reasons […]

Can Winter Weather Impact Visitation Rights in Saratoga County?

Can Winter Weather Impact Visitation Rights in Saratoga County?

Winter weather can complicate visitation rights in Saratoga County, especially when road conditions become dangerous due to snowstorms or icy roads. It’s important for parents to understand how winter conditions may affect their visitation arrangements, how to handle these situations, and when to seek legal assistance. Though weather cannot change the terms of your visitation […]

What Happens to Holiday Debt During a Divorce in New York?

What Happens to Holiday Debt During a Divorce in New York?

 The accumulation of holiday debt is a common occurrence for many couples during the festive season, but when a marriage ends, the division of that debt becomes a significant concern. In New York, understanding how holiday debt is treated during divorce proceedings can help you navigate this complex issue. Navigating the Complexities of Holiday Debt […]

College Costs Mid-Year: Can a Saratoga Judge Order Parents to Split Fall Fees When Support Already Covers Room and Board?

College Costs Mid-Year: Can a Saratoga Judge Order Parents to Split Fall Fees When Support Already Covers Room and Board?

Child support is often a critical aspect of family law, particularly in divorce and separation cases. It is typically designed to cover the basic living expenses of children, such as housing, food, clothing, and education. However, as children transition to college, the question of who is responsible for additional educational costs can lead to confusion […]

Name Change After Divorce in New York: Steps to Finish Before Thanksgiving Travel

Name Change After Divorce in New York: Steps to Finish Before Thanksgiving Travel

If you’ve recently finalized your divorce in New York and wish to change your name before Thanksgiving travel, you’ll need to start the process early to ensure that everything is updated in time. Whether you’re looking to revert to your maiden name, or choose a different name, navigating the legal system for a name change […]

Updating Beneficiaries After Divorce in NY: November Checklist for Wills, POAs, Life Insurance, and 529s

Updating Beneficiaries After Divorce in NY: November Checklist for Wills, POAs, Life Insurance, and 529s

Divorce is an emotionally challenging process, and amidst the legal and personal hurdles, many people overlook the importance of updating their estate planning documents. This oversight can lead to unintended consequences, especially if beneficiaries are not updated properly across key documents like your will, powers of attorney (POAs), life insurance policies, and 529 college savings […]

QDRO Timing in November for Clifton Park Clients: Avoiding Delays When Dividing a 401(k) or Pension

QDRO Timing in November for Clifton Park ClientsAvoiding Delays When Dividing a 401(k) or Pension

 The division of retirement assets such as 401(k) plans and pensions during divorce proceedings is often a complex and meticulous process. One of the most critical elements in ensuring a smooth division is the Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO). This order is essential for transferring retirement assets from one spouse to another but needs to […]

Holiday Gift Disputes After Divorce: Who Decides Big Purchases on Black Friday and Cyber Monday?

Holiday Gift Disputes After Divorce: Who Decides Big Purchases on Black Friday and Cyber Monday?

For divorced parents, the holiday season can be a tricky time, particularly when it comes to gift-giving. Black Friday and Cyber Monday bring tempting deals, but the responsibility of purchasing large gifts—like electronics or high-ticket items—can create significant disagreements. Who should have the final say in purchasing these big-ticket items, especially when it comes to […]

Open Enrollment in November: Which Parent Must Carry Health Insurance Under New York Child Support Orders?

Learn who must provide health insurance under New York child support orders during November open enrollment.

In New York, health insurance coverage for children is often part of the child support agreement. Open enrollment in November can bring up questions about which parent is responsible for maintaining health insurance. This article will help clarify the process, outline who is obligated to carry the insurance, and explain how this intersects with child […]

Winter Break Travel Out of State: Consent Letters, Passports, and Notice Rules Under NY Custody Orders

Winter Break Travel Out of State: Consent Letters, Passports, and Notice Rules Under NY Custody Orders

Winter break is a cherished time for families, especially when separated or divorced parents seek quality time with their children during the holiday season. However, navigating the logistics of out-of-state travel during this time can present challenges, particularly when it comes to adhering to custody agreements. If you’re a parent living in New York and […]

Year-End Bonuses and Child Support in New York: Will November and December Pay Change Your Obligation?

Year-End Bonuses and Child Support in New York: Will November and December Pay Change Your Obligation?

As the year comes to a close, many employees in New York anticipate receiving their year-end bonuses. Whether it’s from a strong performance or as a part of a company’s annual incentives, a bonus can be a substantial financial windfall. However, if you are paying child support, you may be wondering how this additional income […]

Snow Day Custody Clauses in Upstate NY: How Saratoga Judges Expect You to Handle School Closures

Snow Day Custody Clauses in Upstate NY: How Saratoga Judges Expect You to Handle School Closures

Snow days are often a source of stress for parents, especially those who share custody of their children. In Saratoga, NY, as in many parts of Upstate New York, school closures due to winter weather present unique challenges for divorced or separated parents. The courts here expect parents to be proactive about how snow days […]

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