Spousal Support (Maintenance) in New York Spousal Support in New York is called maintenance. Many years ago it was referred to as “alimony”. Today maintenance is generally determined by a formula that compares the income of the spouses, with the higher income spouse paying maintenance to the lower income spouse. There are basically two formulas in New York for maintenance. The lower formula is used when child support is also being paid by the higher income spouse to the lower income [...]

Child Custody Cases - Legal & Physical Custody By Binghamton & Ithaca Family & Custody Lawyers Levene Gouldin & Thompson has been Best Law Firm rated by U.S. News & World Report in Family Law (2018, 2019, 2020). LGT is one of the area’s oldest law firms and was founded in 1927. Our family law attorneys handle divorce, child custody and support matters in Upstate NY including Binghamton, Owego, Ithaca and Cortland. Call for a consultation. 607.763.9200 Child Custody [...]

The Pitfalls and Perils of Pro Se Representation By Jared R. Mack “He who represents himself has a fool for a client” is a quote often attributed to Abraham Lincoln. However, the true origins of the proverb are unknown.  Although the author of the quote may be uncertain, the sentiment has never been more relevant.  The modern judicial system is a chaotic commingling of statutes, regulations, case law and procedures, all of which can prove fatal to the unwary party’s [...]

Pet Custody: Who gets Fido? By:  Elizabeth A. Sopinski A pet is one of the most cherished gifts of life.  After a long day at work, your dog greets you with lots of love and a wagging tail when you get home.  A pet provides companionship and unconditional love.  Perhaps when you are going through a separation or divorce, your pet provides you with the comfort of which you are so much in need.  But what happens when your ex-spouse loves Fido as much as you do?  [...]

Pre-Nuptial Agreements - Not Just for the Richby Sharon L. Dyer, Esq. When we think of Pre-Nuptial Agreements or read about them in the news, we generally think of movie stars, the rich and famous. However, even the less affluent should consider having a Pre-Nuptial Agreement before marriage. Having a Pre-Nuptial Agreement, if drawn properly, can save a lot of uncertainty, aggravation and legal costs in the event couples ultimately divorce. Many marrying couples do not realize that once they [...]