If you are experiencing domestic violence in your home, you still have access to the courts for help even in a time when the coronavirus pandemic is shutting down businesses and other institutions. Even if there has been no physical violence yet, you may still fear for your safety. In this time of mandatory “stay at home” orders, things may get challenging

At The Colwell Law Group our attorneys understand that the outbreak of COVID-19 has created a challenging time for all families. Each day disruptions both large and small occur as a result of this Coronavirus pandemic.  These sudden disruptions can have a negative affect on your family, especially your children and your custody situation. Your family may be facing new

Albany family law attorneys will tell you that most divorce cases settle and that only five percent proceed to trial.  They will also tell you if asked, that the main question in your divorce is how difficult and expensive it will be before you and your spouse will be able to settle and finalize your divorce. There are common mistakes

  Albany courts use the “best interests of the child” standard in making decisions about child visitation and custody.  Under this standard, the interests of the children come before the wishes of the parents or any other consideration. Judges, in applying this standard, evaluate the following factors: 1. Ability to Deliver Care and Essentials.  Providing love, guidance, education, food, clothing,

Equitable Division of Property in a Divorce How to Divide Property Equitably—What the Court Considers Deciding what to do about the marital home is just one aspect of the bigger question of how to divide your marital property in the divorce. If you and your ex are negotiating a no-fault divorce, you can work with your respective attorneys to iron

Is a Prenup the Right Thing for You? Unfortunately, there are a lot of misconceptions and misunderstandings about prenuptial agreements. For many couples, prenups can be useful. They provide real benefits, important clarity, and help to facilitate open and healthy communication. At the same time, prenups also carry a certain stigma, which makes many people inherently resistant to signing one.

Financially Preparing for a Divorce A divorce is one of the most emotional events a person will go through. It’s also one of the most costly.  The average cost of a divorce ranges from $15,000 to $30,000. Given that this such a huge number, it’s a good idea to prepare for a divorce ahead of time. If you think you

Figuring Out Spousal Support in a Divorce —How It Works and How to Secure the Support You Need   Once you’ve ironed out equitable distribution of your marital assets and debts in your divorce, you still have to figure out the matter of income and ongoing support—both for you and any children you may have. Unfortunately, determining these amounts can

At the Colwell Law Group, we regularly hear from grandparents who are being denied visitation with their grandchildren. They are very upset, and they want to know what rights they have. The truth is that the law is very convoluted when it comes to grandparents’ rights. Although you might have the ability to obtain visitation, you will need an experienced

What are My Rights as a Father? New York law regarding fathers’ rights has changed dramatically. Not too long ago, judges automatically gave mothers custody and ordered fathers to pay child support and alimony. Today, courts treat mothers and fathers equally—in theory. However, we see far too many fathers not protect their rights during a divorce. Fathers Have a Right