Legal Matters

Understanding mental health issues as they apply to divorce and child custody.

Lisa Zeiderman Esq., CFL

When Your Partner Has a Gambling Addiction

Not only can a gambling addiction break the trust and bond of a couple, but it can destroy the family's finances.

Financial Abuse: What It Is, What to Do if You're a Victim

If you are being kept in the dark about your marital finances or are given an allowance doled out by your spouse, you might be a victim of financial abuse.

5 Tips for Co-Parenting Through the Holidays, in a Pandemic

COVID-related guidance has made navigating the holidays even more challenging for divorced families.

Domestic Violence Risks Rise as Temperatures Drop

Domestic violence hotline calls have risen substantially since the pandemic began. Calls are expected to continue rising as the temperature drops.

COVID-19 Struggles Continue for Separated and Divorced Parents

Given the continuing and seemingly interminable stresses of the pandemic, how can you continue to be your best self as a separated or divorced co-parent?

5 Legal Tips to Prepare to Divorce a Gaslighter

There is no doubt that gaslighting exists in some long-term relationships. Breaking free requires strength, organization, and ideally, a strong support network.

Reducing Anxiety Around Getting Married

A marriage and family therapist addresses the ways couples can manage pre-wedding anxiety, from talk therapy to drafting a prenup.

The Rush to Divorce Mediation in the Time of COVID-19

Mediation might not be optimal for those whose spouse suffers from narcissism, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, or other mental health issues.

For Some, COVID-19 Togetherness Means Thinking About Divorce

Our current situation is enough to make anyone consider a drastic life change. This article is for those who were considering divorce long before they heard the word "coronavirus."

Divorce and Co-Parenting in the Time of COVID-19

Despite widespread frustration and concern, this is the time to be even more mindful about keeping your children out of the fray of litigation and marital strife.

Bipolar and Looking for Love

Anne Hathaway’s character in an episode of "Modern Love" is a great example of why it is not a good idea to hide a personality disorder in a relationship.

How to Get the Most out of Working With a Child Therapist

Getting through a divorce is hard enough for children. Enlisting the help of a therapist can go a long way toward making it easier for some kids.

Surprise Holiday Bills?

You may be facing unwanted bills after a spouse’s manic spending. There are ways to protect yourself.

The Holidays Are Almost Here

But for divorced families, child custody issues often come to the forefront at this emotional time of year.

Dating After Divorce

Many divorcing parents wonder how dating will affect their children and question the best time to introduce a new significant other.

Borderline Personality and Custody

There is a particularly dangerous unpredictability when it comes to child custody litigation if one of the parents suffers from Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD).

Gaslighting in the Age of Smart Home Technology

Gaslighting is among the most subtle yet damaging forms of emotional abuse, and it is a technique deployed by people who seek to control the behavior of others.

Divorcing a Narcissist? Be Prepared

You have likely heard the term "narcissist"—and you may even be trying to figure out how to disentangle yourself from a relationship with a narcissist in your life.

The Threat of False Allegations in the #MeToo Era

There can be no denial that extreme stress can exacerbate mental illness.

Mental Health Records Aren’t Always Confidential

In a custody proceeding, an individual must understand that their mental state will be considered, including any history of mental health disorders.

Protect Yourself and Your Finances Against a Bipolar Spouse

As a matrimonial and family law attorney, I often meet with people who are concerned about protecting themselves financially from a spouse’s out-of-control spending.