Author Archives: Jay Butchko
How a Forensic Accountant Can Help in Your Divorce
At Barbara Flum Stein & Associates, we strive to get our clients the best divorce settlement possible. This means fully understanding their current financial position and planning effectively for the future. As part of our representation, we might employ the services of a forensic accountant. Many clients want to understand just what this person… Read More »
A Child’s Cancer Diagnosis Does Not Increase Risk of Divorce
Many people assume that having a sick child increases the risk of parents going through divorce. The theory seems to be that the added stress of the illness eventually breaks down the marital bond, possibly at least for those couples who were struggling in their relationship before their child’s diagnosis. An interesting study out… Read More »
Key Considerations when One Spouse Already Has Children
Increasingly, people are forming blended families, where at least one partner already has children. If this describes your situation, then there are several considerations you must keep in mind before heading down the aisle to say “I do.” At our law firm, we do more than represent men and women in divorce and separation… Read More »
Challenges with Open Adoption
One of the more exciting developments in adoption over the past 30 years has been the rise of so-called “open” adoptions. Historically, mothers who gave up their children for adoption never saw them again. The adoptive family also did not disclose to their children that they were adopted until the child reached adulthood, if… Read More »
Will Your Stimulus Check Be Garnished for Child Support Arrearages?
As part of the CARES Act, most Americans will receive a “stimulus check” for $1,200. This money is designed to encourage spending and increase aggregate demand in the economy. Individuals making less than $75,000 as shown on their most recent tax return should receive the full amount, and those with higher incomes could receive… Read More »
Will More Couples Divorce Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic?
Being cooped up with your spouse has driven some marriages to the breaking point. The current Pennsylvania lockdown has brought to light deep fissures in many couple’s relationships. For marriages already on the rocks, this pandemic could cause more of them to finally cut the cord and initiate divorce proceedings. Interestingly, many cities in… Read More »
What Happens to Your Health Insurance after a Divorce?
Health insurance provides peace of mind, especially during turbulent times such as these. However, the United States still does not have universal, single-payer insurance like Canada and a host of other countries. Our patchwork insurance scheme creates a lot of uncertainty, especially for divorcing couples. At our firm, our Media divorce attorneys field many… Read More »
Announcing a Divorce on Social Media
One of the worst parts of getting divorced is having to tell family and friends. Although well meaning, many friends will want to engage in a detailed discussion of how you are feeling, why the marriage failed, who is getting the house, etc. These discussions can quickly overwhelm your life. Today, many couples are… Read More »
Child Custody Exchanges & the Coronavirus Pandemic
Pennsylvania continues to be in the throes of the COVID-19 pandemic, with most nonessential businesses closed and all residents under a stay-at-home order. This situation is certainly very challenging for those who are coparenting after divorce. Our Media child custody attorneys are aware of several problems this has created. Problem #1: Your Handoff Location… Read More »
Take These 5 Steps to Protect Your Credit During Divorce
Just as there is an emotional side to every divorce, there is also a financial side. Countless men and women have found themselves in financial trouble after going through divorce court. Of course, living on one person’s income takes a financial toll, but many people also end up with shredded credit along with their… Read More »