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Child Support Divorce Spousal Support

Tax Repercussions and Support Payments

If you’re paying or receiving spousal support or child support, there are some basic tax laws regarding support payments you need to remember. If you receive spousal support, you must declare it as taxable income . If you’re paying spousal support, you can deduct it. Child support is not taxable and not deductible.

Tax Strategy During Divorce Decisions

These rules are important to keep at the front of you’re mind when you and your spouse are working out alimony and child support agreements. The final ruling and decision should reflect your intentions for tax time. A decision that you and your spouse might make is to have the paying spouse agree to pay the recipient spouse’s tax liability.

A Helpful Tip

It might be helpful to try and work out the best tax deal for both spouses. While negotiations might be difficult, this negotiation might save you both around tax season.

To Keep in Mind

If you receive alimony, make sure you plan for the potential tax impact. Your former spouse will not be able to withhold taxes from the support check you receive, so you’ll need to be sure that you’re accounting for that fact when calculating how much you’ll be paying in taxes. You should consider paying quarterly taxes, just so you don’t get hit all at once in April. 

If you are paying alimony, always remember that you are able to deduct the support payments on your income tax return, but not child support or distribution of property. Often times the IRS scrutinizes the payments made during the first three years to ensure that the payments were not disguised as property distribution or other post divorce obligations.

Working with a Lawyer

The tax laws that are associated with alimony and child support payments can be very confusing. Working with a lawyer that understands the ins and outs of the tax repercussions of divorce can help mitigate the confusion.

Working with a skilled attorney can help ensure you get a fair case.  For advice on child support and spousal support, you need the expert law firm of Divorce Law LA. Schedule a consultation today.

Source: DivorceNet.com, Is Alimony Always Tax Deductible to the Paying Spouse?, 2014

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Divorce Law LA

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Pasadena, Ca. 91106

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Divorce High Net-Worth Divorce

Most Expensive High Net Worth Divorces

When a high net worth couple decides to divorce the divorce agreement can be a difficult one to settle.

When High-Net Worth Marriages Become High-Net Worth Divorces

Very common in high net worth marriages, a prenuptial agreement is decided ahead of the marriage. But when this isn’t the case, differences in international law and circumstances surrounding the breakup (often due to infidelity) can result in large sums being paid out as part of the divorce settlement. 

Most Expensive High-Net Divorces

Most high-net worth divorces make the news. Here’s a list of some of the highest ones:

  • Frank and Jamie McCourt. After 30 years of marriage the couple settled for $131 million and a lot of drama revolving around the ownership of the Los Angeles Dodgers. 
  • Neil Diamond and Marcia Murphey. The two were married for 25 years, but after rumors of infidelity, Marcia decided to call it quits. Diamond has been quoted as saying Marcia received $150 million in the divorce.
  • Boris Berezovsky and Galina Besharova. The Russian millionaire failed to sign a prenuptial agreement with his second wife, Galina. The divorce hit his net worth to the tine of $163 million even after it was alleged that the two spent only two years of their 18-year-long marriage together.
  • Arnold Schwarzenegger and Maria Shriver. After it was revealed that the former California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger fathered a child with a member of the couple’s house-staff, his wife of 25 years decided it was over. The settlement is though to be between $250 Million – $375 Million.

Working with a High Net-Worth Divorce Lawyer

There are a lot of aspects that need to be settled during a high net-worth divorce. Because of this, you need to work with a divorce lawyer that specializes in high net-worth divorces and can help guide you through marital property division, alimony, and child custody (if there are any kids involved). 

For advice on high net-worth divorce, you need the expert law firm of Divorce Law LA. Schedule a consultation today.

Source: CNBC.com, The world’s most expensive divorce settlements, December 29, 2014

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Divorce Law LA

33 S. Catalina Ave. Ste. 202

Pasadena, Ca. 91106

(626) 478-3550

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Child Custody Child Support Child Visitation Divorce Family Law Move Aways (Child Relocation) Paternity

Anxiety in Co-Parenting Situation

It’s not uncommon to feel uneasy in a co-parenting situation. This is especially true if the arrangement is a new one. Here are a few tips to how to get comfortable with your new way of life.

Dealing with Co-parenting

Co-parenting often means a radical change to the way you used to schedule your life and your kids’ lives.

Separation Anxiety

You might feel nervous being apart from your children, and knowing that you won’t be able to see them for a while (while they are spending time with the other parent). The best way to deal with this is to call it out for yourself and name it. This can be as simple as saying, “I am feel separation anxiety being away from my child.” Then identify what’s causing you to feel this way. Is it because it’s a new situation? Is it because you don’t trust the other parent? Or are you just not used to having a free night? Working with a therapist can help you work through these feelings if you’re not able to address them on your own. And if you’re nervous because you fear for your child’s safety, you might want to consult a lawyer.

Communication

Work out a plan for regular communication when your children are away. While it shouldn’t feel like you’re trying to dominate the other parent’s time, it’s completely fair to have a check in via phone or email. You should also have a plan for communicating with the other parent. Maintaining open and good lines of communication is key to addressing your anxiety. If you two are not able to be civil during in person or on phone conversations, take it to email, where you can state the facts of what needs to be addressed without getting emotional.

Custody Agreement

If at any time you feel there has been a violation of the custody agreement, take a step back and evaluate how big the violation is. If it’s an incident where the other parent is 15 minutes late to dropping of your child, maybe let it go. If this becomes a habit you might want to address it through altering your schedule or coming up with a new plan. If the parent refuses to drop off your child, that’s the time to seek a lawyer.

For advice on child support and child custody, you need the expert law firm of Divorce Law LA. Schedule a consultation today.

Source: AboutParenting.com, What if My Ex Refuses to Return My Kids? 2015

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Divorce Law LA

33 S. Catalina Ave. Ste. 202

Pasadena, Ca. 91106

(626) 478-3550

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Child Custody Child Support Divorce Family Law Spousal Support

Considerations for a Short-Marriage Divorce

Sometimes marriage doesn’t work out. And sometimes, you realize that fairly quickly. If you’ve only been married for a short amount of time and are now considering divorce, there are some factors you’ll want to consider.

Short-Term Marriage: Not Uncommon

Short-term marriages are not unusual. Some couples think that a marriage will help to heal a relationship. Factors such as not living together, or jealous thoughts can often feel “solvable” with a marriage. And that’s not often the case. According to the US Census Bureau, 11.5% of marriages that happened during 1995 to 1999 never lasted till the fifth anniversary. 

Divorce Considerations

Even after a short marriage it can be difficult to decide to divorce. Divorce hurts. While you might not have as many things that need to be ironed out, such as property division or child custody, they are all things to be considered and presented to a divorce attorney should you decide to work with one. You’ll want to provide the following information to your attorney: details of your marriage date, your income, your soon to be ex-spouse’s income, and employment status. You’ll also need to provide a lawyer with any property you owned prior to the marriage, and property acquired during the marriage (if any was acquired). You’ll also need to provide any information regarding children (if you have them or are pregnant at the time of the divorce). 

Working with a Divorce Lawyer

Seeking the advice of a divorce lawyer can be helpful. Just because your marriage is ending that doesn’t mean you should feel like you’ve failed. A divorce lawyer will be able to walk you through the divorce process, while also providing advice on how to get through this difficult time. 

For advice on divorce, you need the expert law firm of Divorce Law LA. Schedule a consultation today.

Source: Rosen Law Firm – North Carolina Divorce, The Short Marriage: Divorcing after a Year (or Two), 2015

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Divorce Law LA

33 S. Catalina Ave. Ste. 202

Pasadena, Ca. 91106

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Divorce Family Law

Ryan Adams and Mandy Moore Decide to Divorce

The self titled album that Ryan Adams released in 2014 had a more gloomy and downcast tone than previous releases. That tone was initially attributed to to singer’s battle with Ménière’s disease (an inner ear disorder that affects balance and hearing) and the death of his grandmother. But perhaps there’s another reason for the singer’s melancholy: his divorce from singer Mandy Moore.

Divorce

After 6 years of marriage the rocker and pop star are splitting up. In a joint statement released by the couple it was announce that “Mandy Moore and Ryan Adams have mutually decided to end their marriage of almost six years. It is a respectful, amicable parting of ways and both Mandy and Ryan are asking for media to respect their privacy at this time.”

Marriage

Just four weeks after announcing they were engaged, the singers were married in March 2009 in Savannah, Georgia. The two have collaborated on multiple songs through the years. Adams worked with Moore on her next studio album. Moore also sang back-up vocals on Adams’ 2011 album Ashes & Fire and Ryan Adams‘ “Trouble” and “Am I Safe.”

Private

The two are notorious for keeping their relationship and marriage out of the headlines. Last year, Adams commented, “I’m a private person and I’ll be a gentleman and say I’m not talking about my marriage ever. I’ll never talk about it. Ever.” Adams is set to tour with Jenny Lewis this spring.

For advice on divorce, you need the expert law firm of Divorce Law LA. Schedule a consultation today.

Source: Rolling Stone, Ryan Adams and Mandy Moore ‘Mutually Decided to End Their Marriage,’ January 24, 2015

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Divorce Law LA

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Pasadena, Ca. 91106

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Divorce

When Financial Problems Pave the Way for Divorce

Research has indicated that financial woes can be a main predictor of divorce. That being said, it might be hard to as a potential mate just what his or her credit score is, or what their last year’s tax return looks like. But, as we’ll see, those kind of discussions can lead to healthier relationships, and marriages.

Different Financial Habits

Many couples in the U.S. don’t see eye to eye when it comes to managing their finances. “Having different money personalities in a couple is not unusual,” says financial advisor Andy Tilp says. “The differences can manifest themselves in many ways—saver vs. spender, controller vs. passive, or interested and even passionate about the subject vs. honestly having no interest.” Unfortunately, these types of differences can lead to serious conflict.

Money Disagreements Lead to Divorce

A 2013 Kansas State University study determined that disagreements regarding money can be a predictor of divorce. Conflicts over money lasted longer, involved harsher language, and also required longer periods of time for recovery than arguments regarding other topics.The study also took a look at how arguments and divorce were impacted by income, debt, and net worth. It concluded that regardless of how much money a couple has, conflicts about that money can still result in divorce.

What to Do

So what should a couple, fraught with debates about money and how to spend it, do? According to experts, communication is key. Not talking about finances can mean disaster, so try to make sure that both sides are being heard. Once both sides have shared their feelings, it’s important to find a common ground. If this cannot be done within the couple, then outside help might be warranted. Money problems are rarely easy, but once both sides are voiced, and a shared vision has been created, a couple can move forward and potentially avoid divorce.

 

For advice on divorce, you need the expert law firm of Divorce Law LA. Schedule a consultation today.

Source: USA Today, NerdWallet: When couples disagree on money, October 26, 2014

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Divorce Law LA

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Pasadena, Ca. 91106

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Divorce Family Law

Your Brain During Divorce

Divorce is an emotional time. It can lead to anger, jealousy, guilt, and lots of tears. And just about anything can set it off. But how do you manage it?

Your Brain on Divorce

There’s significant scientific research to show that the emotions you are going through during your divorce are unavoidable. The mind processes threats – either physical or emotional – in the exact same way – via the fight or flight mechanism. So when you are in the middle of that type of stress it makes sense that you’re going to feel a little bit (or a lot a bit) addled and muddled. Your emotions kick in and run wild.

Controlling Your Brain

The amygdala handles your emotions. So during these times of extreme stress it might be best to try and engage your prefrontal cortex – the part of the brain that is rational and processes your ability to reason. Finding a way to “think through” the stress is a powerful tool you’ll need and want to develop. But how?

1. Know the Signs – knowing the telltale signs of when you’re getting stressed out will help you be able to manage the feelings. Is your temperature rising? Pulse racing? Seeing red? Are friends close to you saying it might be time to calm down?

2. Take a Walk – a quick walk or jog can help get out some of that intense energy you’re feeling. A trip to the gym can help you get out the aggression you might be feeling. If anything, try to take some deep breaths while finding that quieter spot in your brain.

3. Relax – if you can’t get out and walk around, try to relax. Focusing on gratefulness or positive memories can help you regain your sane mind.

Working with a Divorce Attorney

Working with a divorce lawyer can help to ease tensions surrounding the divorce process. A divorce lawyer will be able to talk you through the process, as well as provide helpful suggestions on how to build your case and reach an agreement.

 

For advice on divorce, you need the expert law firm of Divorce Law LA. Schedule a consultation today.

Source: The Huffington Post, Your Brain On Divorce, March 4, 2013

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Divorce Law LA

33 S. Catalina Ave. Ste. 202

Pasadena, Ca. 91106

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Child Custody Child Support Child Visitation Divorce Family Law High Net-Worth Divorce Marital Property Division Spousal Support

Cannon Filed for Divorce Dec. 12

It looks like Nick Cannon and Mariah Carey have officially divorced. The two have been on rocky terms since last year.

Cannon Files for Divorce

Allegedly, the 34-year-old “America’s Got Talent” host filed for divorce on December 12. Cannon spoke openly about the two’s separation last year. Telling The Insider last August that the two had been, “living in separate houses for a few months.” He continued, “(Right now) my main focus is my kids.” Cannon has not been tight-lipped about the two’s separation, often taking to Twitter to express his kind feelings towards his ex-spouse.

Carey in the Spotlight

Carey, 44, was back in the headlines just a week prior to Cannon’s alleged filing after having shown up late to the taping of the Rockerfeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting.

“Last night’s situation was beyond my control. I apologize to all that showed up, you know that I would never want to disappoint you,” Carey tweeted to her 15 million followers. “You’ve kept me here, in your hearts, and I keep you in mine always. We are #lambily! #ThereForMe. I will be opening tonight’s live show in Rockefeller center with “All I Want For Christmas Is You”!!!!” The singer received criticism for not being able to hit some of her famous high notes while performing the song.

Just recently the singer revealed she will be heading to Las Vegas for a residency at Caesars Palace.

Marriage and Divorce

The two were wed in the Bahamas in April 2008. They share 3-year-old twins, Moroccan and Monroe. The terms of the divorce are not yet known, so it’s unknown if child custody has already been determined.

 

For advice on divorce, you need the expert law firm of Divorce Law LA. Schedule a consultation today.

Source: Daily News, Nick Cannon files for divorce from Mariah Carey: report, January 16, 2014

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Divorce Law LA

33 S. Catalina Ave. Ste. 202

Pasadena, Ca. 91106

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Collaborative Law Divorce Family Law High Net-Worth Divorce Marital Property Division

A Cheap Wedding Might Save Your Marriage

A recent study done by two economics professors at Emory University, found a correlation between couples who went cheap on their wedding and the length of marriage. Turns out, cutting down on the big day splurges might actually indicate your marriage will last longer.

The professors also found similar link between less-expensive engagement rings and lower divorce rates.

The Study

The surveys were completed by 3,151 adults in the United States who are married, or have been married. The authors believe this is the first time the correlation between wedding expenses and the length of marriages has been examined.

The research also shows that women that spent more than $20,000 on their weddings were divorced at a rate roughly 1.6 times higher than women who spent between $5,000 and $10,000 on the big day. It also showed that couples who spent $1,000 or less on their nuptial ceremony had a lower than average rate of divorce.

Theories

Though the authors of the study, Professor Hugo M. Mialon and Andrew M. Francis, didn’t examine why this might be, they do have a few theories.

“It could be that the type of couples who have a … (cheap wedding) are the type that are a perfect match for each other,” said Mialon. “Or it could be that having an inexpensive wedding relieves young couples of financial burdens that may strain their marriage.”

Average Wedding Cost

According to a survey of 13,000 brides and grooms done performed by the wedding website, TheKnot.com, couples in the U.S. spent an average of $29,858 for their 2013 weddings.

“The wedding industry has long associated lavish weddings with longer-lasting marriages. Industry advertising has fueled norms that create the impression that spending large amounts on the wedding is a signal of commitment or is necessary for a marriage to be successful,” said Francis. “Overall, our findings provide little evidence to support the validity of the wedding industry’s general message that connects expensive weddings with positive marital outcomes,” he said.

The More the Merrier?

But maybe it’s not just cheaper = happier. It could also be that more people actually equals merrier. The study additionally found that the more people that attend the wedding, the lower the divorce rate.

“This could be evidence of a community effect, i.e., having more support from friends and family may help the couple to get through the challenges of marriage,” Francis said. “Or this could be that the type of couples who have a lot of friends and family are also the type that tend not to divorce as much.”

For advice on divorce, you need the expert law firm of Divorce Law LA. Schedule a consultation today.

Source: CNN.com, Want a happy marriage? Have a big, cheap wedding, October 13, 2014

Divorce Law LA, Esq.

Divorce Law LA

33 S. Catalina Ave. Ste. 202

Pasadena, Ca. 91106

(626) 478-3550

https://bestdivorcelawyer.co