In this insightful discussion, we talk about the growing phenomenon of 'default parent' divorces among millennial marriages. The episode explores the dynamics of household responsibilities, the emotional toll of being the default parent, and how this imbalance often leads to marital discord and eventually divorce. The hosts share personal anecdotes, client experiences, and offer practical advice on managing these challenges through better communication, therapy, and allowing mistakes to foster growth in co-parenting.

00:00 Introduction and Team Introduction
00:44 The Default Parent Epidemic
01:46 Impact on Relationships and Divorce
03:11 Gender Roles and Societal Expectations
04:40 Challenges in Co-Parenting Post-Divorce
12:39 Historical Context and Modern Dynamics
14:41 Advice and Solutions for Default Parents
17:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this insightful discussion, Cameron, the Marketing and Business Development Manager at New Direction Family Law, and Elizabeth Stevenson, a partner at the firm, dive deep into the intricate intersection of estate planning and family law with Hampton Crumpler, an attorney at NC Planning. They explore the complexities of generational wealth, trusts, wills, and how these elements play crucial roles in divorce, custody battles, and property division. Key topics include the impact of prenuptial and postnuptial agreements, protecting assets for children from previous marriages, the importance of regularly updating estate plans, and understanding the differences between revocable and irrevocable trusts. Tune in to gain valuable insights into how smart estate planning can save time, money, and stress for your family.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:57 Intersection of Estate Planning and Family Law

01:34 Prenups, Postnups, and Estate Planning

07:15 Trusts for Minor Children

10:15 Revocable vs. Irrevocable Trusts

12:26 Blended Families and Q-Tip Trusts

15:12 Importance of Having a Will

18:32 Inherited Property and Marital Assets

21:06 Tax Consequences of Inherited Money

21:30 Trusts and Taxation

22:22 Real Estate and Inheritance

23:47 Estate Planning and Separation Agreements

25:44 Gifts and Marital Property

27:09 Handling Property in Divorce

28:58 Importance of Estate Planning

31:53 Updating Estate Plans

33:02 Legal Representation in Divorce

34:49 Getting in Touch with an Estate Planning Attorney

37:17 Final Thoughts on Estate Planning

In this episode, Elizabeth Stevenson and Ashley Oldham of New Direction Family Law discuss the crucial process of selecting the right divorce attorney. They cover essential steps such as the importance of initial consultations, building a trust-based relationship, understanding retainer fees, and ensuring transparent communication. They also emphasize the value of honesty and document organization in achieving the best legal outcomes. This episode provides valuable insights for anyone navigating the complexities of divorce.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:31 Choosing the Right Attorney

01:30 Initial Consultation Importance

01:51 Client Intake Process

04:33 Confidentiality and Trust

09:40 Financial Considerations

11:16 Document Organization

15:37 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Join Elizabeth Stevenson from New Direction Family Law and her colleague Ashley Oldham as they discuss the unique challenges of military divorces. In this episode, they delve into the nuances of divorce for military families, covering topics such as pension division, custody arrangements, and the Uniform Deployed Parents Custody and Visitation Act. Ashley, a board-certified family law specialist with extensive experience in military divorces, provides valuable insights on jurisdiction, survivor benefits, and child support. Whether you're a service member or a spouse, this episode is packed with essential information to help navigate the complexities of military divorces.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:38 Military Divorce Overview

02:33 Jurisdiction in Military Divorces

03:54 Custody Issues in Military Divorces

09:49 Division of Military Pensions

15:55 Domestic Violence and Military Personnel

17:25 Military Support Programs and Conclusion

Join Sarah Hink and Ava Jeanette from New Direction Family Law as they chat with guest attorney Matt McGonagle about crucial aspects of business creation, estate planning, and protecting your business in the event of divorce or death. They discuss the importance of having proper legal agreements like operating agreements and shareholders' agreements, and dive into the complexities of trusts, estate planning, and marital protections. Learn how to safeguard your business and assets against unforeseen life events in this insightful podcast episode.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:54 Matt McGonigal's Legal Expertise

01:15 Business Creation and Protection

03:43 Divorce and Business Ownership

06:27 Trusts and Estate Planning

15:22 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Learn more about Matt McGonagle, a board certified specialist with the North Carolina State Bar – Estate Planning and Probate Law

Learn more about New Direction Family Law: https://newdirectionfamilylaw.com/contact-us-today/

In this episode, Sarah J. Hink and Ava K. Jennette from New Direction Family Law discuss the procedural steps involved in obtaining a domestic violence protective order (DVPO) in North Carolina. They offer advice on resources such as local domestic violence resource centers and highlight the essential details needed in the complaint form, including specific allegations and dates. The discussion includes what to expect during the ex parte hearing, service of the abuser, and the return hearing. They also cover the potential consequences of violating a DVPO, the importance of including all relevant incidents in the complaint, and the role of Legal Aid in assisting victims. The episode provides comprehensive guidance for those looking to pursue or defend against a DVPO, emphasizing the importance of legal representation.

00:00 Introduction to the Episode

00:30 Understanding Domestic Violence Protective Orders

01:39 Filing for a Protective Order

02:25 Details and Allegations in the Complaint

06:30 The Ex Parte Order Process

08:47 Preparing for the Return Hearing

09:57 Defending Against False Allegations

13:17 Consequences of Violating a Protective Order

17:56 Renewing a Protective Order

19:56 Final Advice and Resources

Learn more about New Direction Family Law: https://newdirectionfamilylaw.com/contact-us-today/

Join Sarah Hink and attorney Ava Jeanette from New Direction Family Law as they delve into the intricate process of filing for absolute divorce in North Carolina. Learn about the requirements such as the mandatory one year and one day physical separation, the importance of resolving property and alimony issues beforehand, and the nuances related to service and court filings. They also discuss unique scenarios involving military service and incompetency. Whether you're doing it yourself or seeking professional help, this episode provides essential insights to guide you through the divorce proceedings.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:39 Understanding Absolute Divorce

01:33 Filing for Divorce in North Carolina

04:06 Checklist Before Filing for Divorce

05:17 The Divorce Filing Process

06:18 Service Issues in Divorce

07:53 Court Procedures and Attorney Involvement

14:02 Special Cases and Unique Scenarios

16:27 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Learn more about New Direction Family Law: https://newdirectionfamilylaw.com/contact-us-today/

Understanding Prenuptial Agreements: Protecting Your Future and Assets

In this episode of New Direction Family Law, Elizabeth Stevenson and Sarah Hink discuss the importance of prenuptial agreements, especially for individuals entering second marriages or who have children from previous relationships. They explain how prenups can protect personal assets, manage debts, and anticipate changes in circumstances, such as starting a business. The conversation also touches on the misconceptions about prenups, the emotional and financial implications, and the necessity of discussing finances openly before marriage. Tune in for real talk on romance, prenups, and safeguarding your future.

00:00 Introduction and Importance of Prenups

01:01 Meet the Team

01:37 Discussing Prenups and Common Misconceptions

03:05 Debt and Financial Transparency in Marriage

06:16 Prenups and Business Ownership

10:31 Changing Prenups: Legal Advice

10:41 Prenups and Children: Legal Limitations

11:11 Prenups and Infidelity Clauses

11:25 Public Policy and Prenups

12:22 Prenups and Coercion

12:55 Timing and Prenups

13:29 Prenups for Second Marriages

14:10 Strange Prenup Clauses

15:11 Postnups: Similarities and Differences

15:58 Prenups and Business Ownership

17:03 Prenups: Personal Decisions and Legal Advice

Learn more about New Direction Family Law: https://newdirectionfamilylaw.com/contact-us-today/

In this episode, Elizabeth Stevenson and Sarah Hink from New Direction Family Law discuss the complexities and emotional challenges of separation and divorce. They share practical advice on handling separation, especially in cases of domestic violence, financial complications, and child custody. They also introduce Cam Heinsohn, their new marketing and business development manager. The conversation touches on real-life scenarios, legal strategies, and the emotional toll of ending a marriage, aiming to provide guidance and support for those going through such a difficult time.

00:00 The Hardest Part of Separation

00:58 Introducing the New Podcast Member

02:04 Suddenly Single: Coping with Unexpected Separation

05:43 Handling Separation Conversations

11:39 Navigating Separation: Initial Steps

12:08 Living Arrangements and Legal Implications

13:27 Financial Responsibilities During Separation

15:44 Court Orders and Legal Actions

18:39 Consulting an Attorney: When and Why

20:48 Emotional and Practical Support

21:28 Finding Strength and Moving Forward

Learn more about New Direction Family Law: https://newdirectionfamilylaw.com/contact-us-today/

In this episode of 'The Exit Strategy: Your No Bullshit Guide to Divorce,' experienced attorneys Elizabeth Stevenson and Sarah Hink from New Direction Family Law discuss the vital role of parenting coordinators in high-conflict divorce situations. Learn how parenting coordinators, either attorneys or mental health professionals, are appointed to assist co-parents in making decisions and improving communication. 

Discover how this essential service can help avoid prolonged court battles, reduce legal fees, and ensure the best interests of the children are prioritized. Tune in for expert insights on how to navigate co-parenting challenges effectively.

00:00 Introduction to the Exit Strategy

00:18 Meet the Attorneys

00:42 Understanding Parenting Coordinators

01:05 Role and Appointment of Parenting Coordinators

01:51 Challenges in Co-Parenting

03:53 Legal Implications and Court Involvement

05:03 Benefits of Parenting Coordinators

07:22 Practical Advice for Co-Parents

17:16 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Learn more about New Direction Family Law: https://newdirectionfamilylaw.com/contact-us-today/