Divorce Law 101

Divorce is a complicated area of practice that can take a serious personal and financial toll on all involved in the process. This course was created as an introduction to divorce law, allowing you to learn some of the important strategies involved in successfully representing your client and providing one with the best outcome possible. It will guide you through the divorce process from the initial client interview to the final divorce decree or settlement. Sherri Donovan, an experienced family law attorney, will help prepare you with a comprehensive overview that will give you the knowledge and confidence to tackle your next case. Phillip Touitou, an expert in ethics, will discuss ethical pitfalls that the domestic relations law practitioner should avoid and provide guidance on disciplinary procedures.

Live Program/Webcast:
Member: $199
Nonmember: $299
Small Law Firm: $119 Member

6:00 pm – 6:25 pm                 Initiating a Divorce Action

• Client Interview
• Necessary Documents
• Types of Divorce Proceedings
• Grounds for Divorce
• Drafting and Serving Pleadings
• Automatic Orders
• Brief Update on Same Sex Marriage & Divorce

6:25 pm – 7:10pm                  Financial Issues

• Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements
• Marital and Separate Assets
• Retirement Plans and Insurance
• Discovery Process
• Equitable Distribution vs. Community Property
• Maintenance/Alimony/Spousal Support

7:10 pm – 7:20 pm                 Break

7:20 pm – 8:20 pm                 Ethical Considerations

• Retainer Agreement and Statement of Client Rights and Responsibilities
• Conflicts of Interest
• Communication with Clients
• Deadlines
• Billing

8:20 pm – 8:45 pm                 Parenting Issues

• Types of Custody and Access Arrangements/Parenting Plans
• Child Custody Jurisdiction
• Relocation
• Child Support
• Medical, Educational, and Childcare Provisions

8:45 pm – 9:00 pm                 Final Divorce Proceedings

• Settlement Agreements
• Trials and Court Orders
• Violations and Enforcement
• The Appeals Process

NY: 3.0 total: 2.0 skills & 1.0 ethics

NJ: 3.4 total: 2.2 general & 1.2 professional responsibility

CA: 3.0 total: 2.0 general & 1.0 professional responsibility

PA: 2.5 total: 1.5 general & 1.0 professional responsibility

Sponsorship Opportunities are Available! Please Contact:
Maricela Alfonso | malfonso@nycbar.org or
________________________________________________________________