Columbia Family Divorce Law Blog

Contempt of Court and Enforcement Actions: Proving Violations and Seeking Remedies in Family Law Orders

Contempt of Court and Enforcement Actions: Proving Violations and Seeking Remedies in Family Law Orders

Few things are as frustrating as working hard to secure a family law court order—whether for child custody, visitation, support, or property division—only to have the other party ignore or violate it. For many families, these orders are more than just words on a page; they’re lifelines that set critical boundaries and protect children and parents alike.

Contempt of Court note next to gavel

Divorce in the Tech Industry: Valuing Stock Options, RSUs, Intellectual Property, and Deferred Compensation

Divorce in the Tech Industry: Valuing Stock Options, RSUs, Intellectual Property, and Deferred Compensation

Divorce is difficult, even under the best of circumstances. For families in the tech industry, the financial situation of a separation can add another layer of complication. Unlike more straightforward cases involving typical bank accounts or real estate, a tech-related divorce often brings unique financial instruments into play—stock options, restricted stock units (RSUs), intellectual property rights, and deferred compensation plans.

Mediator resolving divorce settlement

Domestic Violence Restraining Orders: Obtaining, Defending, and Modifying Protective Orders

Domestic Violence Restraining Orders: Obtaining, Defending, and Modifying Protective Orders

When a situation becomes unsafe, knowing that legal protections are available can mean the difference between living in fear and reclaiming a sense of peace. Domestic violence is a devastating reality that no one should have to face, yet for many individuals and families, it’s a deeply personal and urgent concern.

Restraining Order file, gavel and pen in table

Complex Divorce Cases: Managing High-Net-Worth Assets, Business Interests, and Executive Compensation

Complex Divorce Cases: Managing High-Net-Worth Assets, Business Interests, and Executive Compensation

Divorce is never easy, and when significant assets, businesses, and executive compensation come into play, the process can feel overwhelming.

A difficult divorce negotiation

Collaborative Divorce: Core Principles and Benefits Over Traditional Litigation

Collaborative Divorce: Core Principles and Benefits Over Traditional Litigation

The end of a marriage can be emotionally overwhelming, financially demanding, and mentally draining—not just for the couple involved, but for their children and extended families as well.

Mediation between marriage, husband and wife during divorce process

When Collaborative Divorce Fails: Transitioning to Contested Proceedings Without Burning Bridges

When Collaborative Divorce Fails: Transitioning to Contested Proceedings Without Burning Bridges

Divorce is one of the most difficult journeys a family can face. When embarking on the process, many couples hope to work together amicably, choosing collaborative divorce as a way to minimize conflict and foster a respectful separation.

Frustrated senior couple, headache and fight in divorce

What Happens When a Parent Refuses to Follow the Custody Schedule?

What Happens When a Parent Refuses to Follow the Custody Schedule?

Going through separation or divorce is a challenging experience, especially when one parent refuses to follow the custody agreement. Whether it’s missing drop-offs, withholding visitation, or significantly altering the schedule without notice, these disruptions take a toll on everyone, especially the children.

Gavel, sound block and little wooden figures of parents and children placed

What Happens to BAH and Military Housing During Legal Separation?

What Happens to BAH and Military Housing During Legal Separation?

Legal separation can lead to uncertainty, especially regarding your finances and living arrangements. For military families, the added layer of military benefits, such as Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) and access to military housing, can make things even more complicated.

Judge gavel deciding on agreement prepared marriage divorce

What the Courts Expect in Parenting Plans for Active-Duty Service Members

What the Courts Expect in Parenting Plans for Active-Duty Service Members

Being a parent while serving on active duty presents unique challenges. Deployments, relocations, and unpredictable schedules create a dynamic family structure that can make co-parenting particularly complicated. Despite these challenges, courts recognize the additional complications military families face and are committed to crafting parenting plans that account for service members' responsibilities while prioritizing your children's best interests.

Woman in camouflage clothes kissing her daughter

Can You Relocate With Children After Divorce? Legal Barriers and Exceptions

Can You Relocate With Children After Divorce? Legal Barriers and Exceptions

The end of a marriage is challenging for any family, but the challenges don't always stop once the divorce is finalized. When one parent wishes to relocate with their child, it can create a situation that is fraught with emotions, questions, and concerns. If you're facing this situation as a parent, we know how much you care about your child’s stability, future, and happiness.

Child holding doll among cardboard boxes