The name “Responsible Individuals List” may sound like an accolade to parents; however, this is a misnomer. For those unfortunate enough to find their family in the midst of an investigation of child abuse, neglect, and dependency the List is likely to be mentioned. It is important that anyone who finds themselves in this situation be aware of what the term means and the ramifications of being on this list. Continue reading →
It Only Takes a Moment: Visitation Ideas for Triad Dads
With Valentine’s Day around the corner, love is in the air and it is a great time to express it to those who you care about most. It is important that during this festive season that you remember that your children are the ones who need your love the most and we are here to help with some creative ideas on how to make the most of your time with them. When it comes to time with your children, it is important to remember the deliberate nature in which you must approach each moment you have with them. Continue reading →
When Death is not the end, the IRS steps in: Part 2 of 2
Anderson v. Comm’r, T.C. Memo. 2016-47, 2016 WL 976816 (2016)
Facts: An Alabama court entered a pretrial order in a divorce case, requiring both parties to “[m]aintain status quo as to payment of house note or rent, utilities, food, necessities, fixed credit obligations, ” 2016 WL 976816, at *1. After the order was entered, the husband transferred at least $1,000 each month to the wife “for her spending money and other things that I had previously paid for.” Id. Continue reading →
When Death is not the end, the IRS steps in: Part 1 of 2
Wolens v. United States, 125 Fed. Cl. 422 (2016)
Facts: The parties married in New York, but divorced in England. Their English divorce decree provided for a large initial payment to be made by the husband to the wife, followed by annual payments of £441,667 in 2007, 2008, and 2009. (The 2009 payment was one pound less.)The husband’s initial tax return did not claim the 2007 payment as alimony. He later filed an amended return which did claim the 2007 payment as alimony. The IRS disallowed this return and refused to issue a refund. Continue reading →
Rights of Same-Sex Parents in North Carolina – Heatzig v. Maclean
When a marriage breaks down, the question of child custody becomes inevitable. This can often be the most emotionally charged and even contentious part of a divorce. At the Woodruff Family Law Group, our compassionate and hard-working North Carolina child custody attorneys will let you know your rights as well as your options during this difficult time. Continue reading →
What is Legal Custody in North Carolina? Diehl v. Diehl, Hall v. Hall and Gentry v. Gentry
When the parents of minor children split up, they need to figure out how and if they will share custody of their children. North Carolina parents are free to agree upon any custody and visitation agreement they deem best for the family. If the parents decide on an agreement, they can do that without the need for a trial, if they get the approval of the court. However, if the parents cannot reach an agreement, a court decides the matter. At the Woodruff Family Law Group, our seasoned North Carolina child custody attorneys have the skill, knowledge, and determination to handle your child custody case. Continue reading →
Relocation from North Carolina to Another State: Ramirez-Barker v. Barker
When parents decide to split up, it can be extremely difficult for the child to adjust to the change. When a parent decides to move to another state, the change can be even harder to deal with. At the Woodruff Family Law Group, our skilled North Carolina child custody attorneys understand the nuances of family law and can help you determine your legal rights and options. Continue reading →
Diamonds Are A Girl’s Best Friend … Until You Have To Give Them Back
By: Leesa M. Poag, Attorney, Woodruff Family Law GroupBoy meets girl. They fall in love. Before you know it, he’s down on one knee with an expensive diamond ring in his hand. With Valentines Day quickly approaching, it is a scene that is sure to play out all across the Triad. But what happens when the relationship ends before the wedding bells have even had a chance to ring? When instead of meeting with a wedding planner, the couple is turning to a family law attorney for advice? Continue reading →
The Most Wonderful Time of the Year?
By: Dana M. Horlick, Attorney, Woodruff Family Law GroupDirectly after the holidays happens to be one of the busiest times of the year for divorce attorneys when it comes to divorce filings. The increase in divorce filings is a trend that is seen nationwide, including here in Greensboro, North Carolina. According to the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, there is typically a spike of 25% to 30% in divorce filings every year in January. There is a similar trend in the United Kingdom, where one in five couples plan to divorce after the holidays. Continue reading →
Substantial Change in Circumstances for North Carolina Parents in Child Custody Cases: Hibshman v. Hibshman
Life after divorce can be difficult and made even more challenging when custody disputes are involved. North Carolina law was designed for the reality that people’s circumstances can change from time to time, and they may need to modify existing custody orders accordingly. When parents cannot agree on which changes are appropriate, the court will decide whether a modification is necessary based on substantial changes in circumstances. Continue reading →