LJN Newsletters

  • Using Trusts in a Divorce

    In a divorce case where a trust exists, it is possible to terminate the trust, with the agreement of all the parties, to utilize the proceeds to meet the needs of the parties in effectuating equitable distribution. Bear in mind that the termination of a trust can only be achieved by agreement and therefore such a goal cannot be achieved in a litigated matter. As part of a divorce settlement, certain types of trusts can be created for funding education expenses or covering medical expenses. These trusts would provide a mechanism for meeting support obligations.

    March 18, 2004Lynne Strober

  • Gays and Adoption: the Latest in Florida

    [Editor's Note: For up-to-date information on the fast-changing issue of same-sex marriage and adoption, please visit http://www.ljnonline.com/alm?map…

    March 04, 2004ALM Staff | Law Journal Newsletters |

  • Litigation

    Recent cases of importance to your practice.

    March 04, 2004ALM Staff | Law Journal Newsletters |

  • Should Forensic Psychologists Make Custody Recommendations?

    As discussed in the first part of this article, forensic evaluations can have a dramatic effect on the trajectory of a contested custody dispute and, ultimately, on the path a particular child's life will take post disposition. There are many arguments against giving specific custody recommendations, eg, it has not been established that following specific custody recommendations will result in a better family situation. In addition, the recommendations are frequently deeply subjective and value-laden and the profession itself is divided on many important issues. The conclusion of this article explores the ethical concerns, professional role and positive contributions of forensic psychologists.

    March 04, 2004Jeffrey P. Wittmann, PhD

  • Can a Custodial Parent Be Forbidden to Relocate?

    Parents in Georgia may need to reconsider moving out of state, or they could risk losing custody of their children. The Nov. 10, 2003 decision by the Supreme Court of Georgia in Bodne v. Bodne, 588 S.E.2d 728 (2003) (Benham, J., dissenting) has overruled or otherwise affected nearly 100 years of child custody law, and it has rescinded the well-established presumption that custodial parents have a prima facie right to retain custody.

    March 04, 2004Kimberli J. Reagin

  • Debts, Divorce, and Student Loans

    Increasingly, family lawyers are encountering property division cases involving the equitable distribution of student loans or claims seeking equitable reimbursement for funds spent on higher education during the marriage. The statistics regarding tuition increases are staggering. According to the College Board's most recent annual survey on trends in college pricing (www.collegeboard.com), for private colleges, the average cost of a 4-year program, including room and board, is $78, 840. The average figure for in-state public universities is $18,776.

    March 04, 2004Mark Momjian

  • News from the FDA

    The latest news of interest to you and your practice.

    March 03, 2004ALM Staff | Law Journal Newsletters |