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Can I Modify My Spousal Support Agreement in New York?

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Life can change quickly. What worked for you a year ago might not work for you today. That includes your spousal support agreement . In New York, spousal support, sometimes called alimony or maintenance, is not always set in stone. You may be wondering if you can change the amount you pay or receive. The good news is yes, in some situations, it is possible. But the court must agree that a change is fair. When Spousal Support Starts and Why it Matters Spousal support often begins after a divorce. It helps one person adjust to life without their spouse's income. The person paying may have been the main earner during the marriage. The court looks at things like how long you were married, your income, your health, and whether you need job training or education. Sometimes, the court sets the support for a certain number of years. Other times, it may last longer, especially in long marriages. Once the support agreement is in place, it is a legal obligation. That means you must follow it ...

Can Child Support Be Modified in New York? A Guide to Changes in Circumstances

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When parents go through a separation or divorce in New York, one of the most important decisions they make is how to support their children financially. Child support is the money one parent pays to help with things like food, housing, clothes, school, and medical care. But life can change. People lose jobs, get raises, move to new cities, or have new families. These changes can affect how much a parent can pay or how much a child needs. That’s why New York law allows child support orders to be changed in some situations. This guide explains when and how child support can be changed in New York, in simple terms, so that any parent going through this can better understand their rights and choices. What is Child Support in New York Child support in New York is money that one parent pays to the other to help take care of their children. It is usually set by a judge or a court, and it is based on things like how much money each parent makes and how many children they have. The state uses ...

How to Prepare for Divorce in New York Step-by-Step Guide

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If you are reading this, you may be facing a time that feels uncertain and overwhelming. You may have questions, concerns, and fears about what will happen next. That is completely normal. Divorce can bring up a lot of emotions, and it can feel like your whole world is shifting. If you need a lawyer for your divorce in New York , we are here for you. We understand that every person and every situation is different. You are not alone in this. We are ready to help guide you toward a strong outcome and a clear path forward. Starting the Divorce Process in New York The first thing to know is that you do not have to figure this out all by yourself. In New York, divorce starts when one spouse files a document called a Summons with Notice or a Summons and Complaint with the court. This lets the court know that a divorce case is beginning. The person who files is called the plaintiff. The other person is the defendant. This step is just the start. It doesn’t mean everything is already decided....

How to Prepare for a Child Custody Hearing in New York

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Facing a child custody hearing can be a stressful and emotional experience for any parent. If you’re feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to expect, it’s important to know that you are not alone. At Mahserjian & Mahserjian-Ortiz, PLLC, we understand the anxiety that comes with preparing for such a significant legal event. Whether you are seeking custody of your child or defending against a custody claim, it’s crucial to be prepared in order to increase your chances of a successful outcome. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps involved in preparing for a child custody hearing in New York, helping you feel confident and ready for the process ahead. Understanding the Custody Process in New York Before diving into the specifics of preparation, it’s important to understand the basic framework of how child custody hearings work in New York. Child custody cases in New York are typically governed by the best interests of the child standard. This means that the court will alwa...

Top Benefits of Choosing an Uncontested Divorce in New York

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If you're currently facing the challenging decision of going through a divorce, you may be feeling overwhelmed and unsure of your next steps. The emotions that come with the end of a marriage are complicated, and the legal process can feel just as daunting. If you're reading this, you are likely in need of a trusted attorney to guide you through this journey and help ensure a smooth and fair resolution to your case. Rest assured that you do not have to navigate this alone. We understand the confusion and worry that can come with a divorce, especially in a state like New York where the process can seem complex and overwhelming. Choosing the right path for your divorce is essential, and one of the options you may want to consider is an uncontested divorce. This approach can help simplify the process and reduce some of the emotional strain that often accompanies divorce proceedings. In this blog, we will walk you through the key benefits of choosing an uncontested divorce in New ...

The Step-by-Step Guide to Filing for an Uncontested Divorce in New York

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If you're reading this, it's likely that you're considering filing for an uncontested divorce in New York. The decision to divorce can be overwhelming, especially if you're unsure where to begin or what the process entails. You're not alone in this, and we're here to help guide you through every step. Our team understands the emotional challenges that come with this situation and is here to help you navigate the process with as little stress as possible. At Mahserjian & Mahserjian-Ortiz, PLLC , we believe in providing you with the support and legal guidance you need to move forward in your life. Understanding Uncontested Divorce An uncontested divorce is when both spouses agree on all aspects of the divorce, including property division, spousal support, and, if applicable, child custody. This type of divorce can be much faster and less expensive than a contested divorce, as it does not require lengthy court battles. However, even though both parties may be i...