Changes to the Minnesota Judicial Branch During Times of Social Distancing
In conjunction with Governor Tim Walz’s declaration of emergency and the Minnesota Department of Health’s urgent request to practice social distancing, Minnesota Supreme Court Chief Justice, Lori S. Gildea, issued a judicial order outlining changes for the Minnesota Judicial Branch.[1] As of March 16, 2020, cases pending before the Minnesota [...]
Finding Peace During Social Distancing
Within weeks the international landscape has turned our worlds upside down. Adjusting to any life change requires time and patience, but the COVID-19 crisis isn’t an experience anyone thought would occur, let alone require life changes. Trying to cope during a time where many people spend their time working, entertaining [...]
Post-Decree Issues – Modifying a Spousal Maintenance Award
Spousal maintenance, also known as “alimony,” is an award of financial support one party (“obligor”) temporarily or permanently provides to the other party (“obligee”) for a mutually agreed-upon or court-ordered amount. A Minnesota court may grant an award upon finding that the obligee is without enough property or financial resources [...]
Minnesota Divorce and Disproportionate Divisions of Property
Property division can be a tricky part of your divorce and sometimes can become a point of contention between the parties. This is why, generally, property divisions are supposed to be equitable so that each party receives a fair amount in the division. There are two categories of property in [...]
Valentine Proposal? Time to Consider an Antenuptial (Prenuptial) Agreement
The last thing anyone who is newly engaged wants to think about is divorce. You are feeling high from the joy of planning your life with the one you love – bringing legal papers and provisions into it can dampen the mood. While we don’t suggest handing prenuptial papers to [...]
Benefits of Counseling During and After Divorce
The effects of divorce are like those of other significant life-changing events, including natural disasters, illnesses, and serious accidents.[1] The stages of grief-denial, pain and uncertainty, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance-are normal and typical experiences during the divorce process.[2] Whether or not divorce is amicable or includes children or property, [...]
Mediation and Other ADR Processes During Divorce
Mediation, and other forms of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), can be a less stressful and more cost-effective way to resolve divorce disputes. Mediation is a chance for the parties to take control of their divorce and make decisions for their separation that they think will be the most effective for [...]
Minnesota Divorce Topic – Equitably Dividing Assets and Debts
Financial issues are often a sticking point during divorce. Not only can valuing and dividing assets become a point of contention, but allocating debt can also be a major concern. In Minnesota Divorce cases, the division of Assets and Debts does not need to be mathematically equal, and you are [...]
Divorce and Your Child’s Education
The emotional difficulties of divorce affect children no matter what their age. When your children are school-aged, it is quite common to see some temporary changes in their academics. With love, understanding and patience, you can help your child deal with the issues presented during a divorce. The Impact on [...]
An Overview of Antenuptial (Prenuptial) Agreements in Minnesota
Minn. Stat. 519.11 covers the basics of antenuptial contracts. Antenuptial contracts are more commonly referred to as “prenups”. While many people know what prenups are, most don’t know what they can and cannot include, and the logistics and enforceability of them. Simply put, these agreements are a contract made between [...]