McKinley Irvin Blogs from January 2021

• Pet Custody Battles in Divorce

  Jan 29, 2021
  In addition to child custody and spousal support, some couples have to also figure out how they will handle pet custody when they divorce. Courts generally place pets in the same category as other personal property, especially if the animal was expensive. In pet custody cases, judges usually want to know which party put up the money to purchase the pet, as well as whose income was primarily used to cover vet bills and other essentials for the animal. However, according to the Animal Legal and Historical Center at Michigan ...
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• Whether or Not to File for Divorce During the Current Health Crisis

  Jan 19, 2021
  By Theresa Lorella , McKinley Irvin Senior Attorney People thinking about divorce or separation as COVID guidelines went into place have fallen under two broad categories now that the stay-at-home orders are upon us: Those who told their spouse (or physically separated, or filed a case, etc.) before the pandemic hit; and those who didn’t have the chance to break the news before all the COVID regulations went into place. For those who did have the opportunity to have a meaningful conversation with their spouse prior to COVID ...
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• What Should I Ask for in a Divorce Settlement?

  Jan 15, 2021
  The division of property is a difficult aspect of the divorce process. It includes the family home, any other shared real estate, vehicles, funds in bank accounts or trusts, investments, stock options, retirement benefits, pensions, and business interests. With so much at stake, it is important to know what to ask for when in the process of negotiating a divorce settlement. In addition to the immediate outcome and changes to your life, this agreement will have lasting effects on your future. Know Your Case Being familiar ...
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• Is There a Link Between Divorce and Depression?

  Jan 5, 2021
  A divorce is a highly challenging process, and it can bring about very strong emotional responses. In several individuals, divorce can even prompt issues with depression. Medical depression is very serious, and it’s important to understand that it can sometimes be caused by extremely traumatizing or difficult situations, such as divorce. Some people may be completely blindsided by their spouse’s request for a divorce, and dealing with that news can be heartbreaking and tough to accept. Even the spouse who acted as the ...
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• 10 Tips for a Low Cost Divorce

  Jan 1, 2021
  A divorce can be costly, both financially and emotionally. While it is impossible to predict the total cost of your divorce, there are strategies you can use to actively manage your legal fees. Here are some guidelines to minimize both the financial and emotional consequences of ending your marriage. While it is impossible to forecast how much your legal matter will cost you, we can actively manage your legal costs every day. Here are some strategies to minimize both the emotional and financial costs of divorce. 1. Figure ...
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