What Becomes of the Ring?

In both New Jersey and Pennsylvania, an engagement ring is a conditional gift given in exchange for the promise of marriage.  If the engagement is broken and the marriage doesn’t occur, regardless of fault, the ring is returned to the giver. The problem occurs once the marriage has taken place and the couple is faced…

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How Mediation Can Help You Avoid 7 Big Financial Divorce Mistakes

Eric Sandberg wrote, “Seven Big Post-Divorce Money Mistakes” for Fox Business.  The following are the ways mediation can help you avoid those mistakes. 1.  If your mortgage or credit card is in both parties’ names, then your lender will sue both of you if it’s not paid.  Your Agreement should address which of you will…

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The DROP (Deferred Retirement Option Plan) Loophole

We’ve all been hearing about the DROP controversy in Philadelphia.  (It’s happening in New Jersey as well.)  Well, what is it and what’s the latest?  DROP stands for Deferred Retirement Option Plan.  What it has turned into is a loophole for city employees.   According to the Cabrini College Locquitor, “Elected officials are con­sidered city employees…

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Divorce is More Affordable Due to Economic Recovery

One of the greatest challenges I have as a divorce mediator is to divide a couple’s marital estate so that both parties are able to move forward financially as separate individuals. Not only is it important to allocate the parties’ respective assets and debts according to the law, but it is also essential as a…

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