Divorce Donna Cates Divorce Donna Cates

Discovery during divorce

One of the biggest issues I consistently see in divorce cases is the discovery process. Particularly written discovery. Written discovery consists of interrogatories, requests for production, and admissions.

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Divorce Donna Cates Divorce Donna Cates

WHAT IS EQUITABLE DIVISION ANYWAY?

One of the first question I get from potential client going through a possible divorce is “What am I entitled to?” Sometimes this question comes from a true lack of knowledge, but other times it comes from a concern over statements or threats made by a spouse that one spouse will come out of a divorce with everything and one with nothing. This is a very real concern for so many people going through divorce.

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Divorce Donna Cates Divorce Donna Cates

7 Divorce Settlement Mistakes You Can Avoid

While it's uncomfortable to think about, hidden assets are a reality in some divorces. Trust is essential, but being aware of potential red flags is equally important. Financial professionals can assist in uncovering any hidden assets, protecting your rightful share of the settlement.

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Divorce Donna Cates Divorce Donna Cates

Starting Fresh: Your Post-Divorce New Year

The New Year always brings with it a sense of renewal and fresh beginnings. But when you're entering this phase after a divorce, the change can feel both daunting and exhilarating. As a Certified Divorce Coach, I've guided many through this transition. Here’s how you can embrace this new chapter with positivity and empowerment, sans the cliché resolutions.

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Divorce Donna Cates Divorce Donna Cates

Navigating the January Divorce Rush: Financial Insights Every Woman Should Know

The January Divorce Phenomenon: January often witnesses a spike in divorce filings, and experts attribute this surge to a variety of factors. The holiday season, with its focus on family and togetherness, may prompt couples to delay their decision until after the festivities. Additionally, the start of a new year can inspire resolutions for change, leading some individuals to take the difficult step of ending their marriages.

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Divorce Donna Cates Divorce Donna Cates

4 Changes that Affect Family Law/Divorce Cases

CHANGE 1: Life Insurance Policy Court-Ordered to Secure Alimony Obligation

There is a recent case law development from the Alabama Court of Civil Appeals regarding the trial court’s authority to order a party to maintain life insurance to secure his/her periodic alimony to the other party. The Turney case clarifies that the trial court does not have the authority to require a party to maintain life insurance on his life to secure periodic alimony for the opposing party. Turney v. Turney, 2022 WL 17368821 (Ala. Civ. App., Dec. 2, 2022) “Thus, although a trial court has discretion to award life insurance as a separate award for the benefit of the wife, see Lackey, supra; Sellers v. Sellers, 893 So. 2d 456 (Ala. Civ. App. 2004); Bush v. Bush, 784 So. 2d 299, 300 (Ala. Civ. App. 2000); and Strong v. Strong, 709 So. 2d 1259 (Ala. Civ. App. 1998), it cannot order the payor spouse to maintain a life-insurance policy to secure a periodic-alimony obligation, which is an obligation that is terminable at the payor spouse's death. Lacey, supra. Therefore, in the Turney case, the trial court erred by ordering the husband to maintain a life-insurance policy for the benefit of the wife to secure his periodic-alimony obligation, and its judgment is reversed in this regard.”

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Divorce Donna Cates Divorce Donna Cates

Using Soft Startups as a Communication Skill During Difficult Conversation

Often, women may find themselves living in a house, and often co-parenting with, a partner who they may be in the process of divorcing. Many may experience difficulty in communicating effectively before, during , and after a divorce.

When you are in this type of situation, and bringing up a concern to your partner, the first three minutes are crucial. A Soft Startup sets a positive tone and can help to minimize or resolve conflict. By beginning a conversation calmly and respectfully, you and your partner are more likely to focus on the problem, rather than what’s the problem.

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Navigating Divorce and Embracing Life: The Power of Working with a Divorce Coach

While friends and family can offer support during this tumultuous time, working with a divorce coach can provide invaluable guidance and expertise to navigate the divorce process while simultaneously preparing you for a fulfilling life after divorce. In this blog post, we will explore the transformative role of a divorce coach, highlighting how their support can empower you to reclaim your life, find inner strength, and embrace a brighter future.

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