Collaborative law is an alternative dispute resolution process for legal matters.  Collaborative law finds an amicable resolution for legal disputes through cooperation, negotiation, and transparency.  The process allows parties and attorneys to define common goals and problem solve.  The process enables the parties to come to an outcome that is well-reasoned, effective, and both parties have the goals [...]

The month of April gets its name from the Latin word Aperio meaning "to open" (bud).  April is aptly named as plants and flowers really begin to grow and bloom in this month.  April showers bring flowers.  We can expect some capricious and unpredictable weather in April – rain, sun, cool temperatures, or warm days.  [...]

There was a recent case in Suffolk County Family Court whereby a modification of child support was granted after Petitioner had a leg amputated. When I first saw this case, I thought to myself "Oh, is this what it takes to be able to reduce a child support order." In the Matter of Support Proceeding [...]

Is it March already? My New Year resolutions and my Lenten practices seem to have run into each other. Can't say I have accomplished all I set out to do, or change. But as many times as I fail, each morning, I look to the new day and begin again. March is a month that [...]

This March is the month of Lent as well as Easter. It is a time to think about one's life and death. Many families are loathe to discuss this with their parents, spouses, siblings or friends. To bring up end of life decisions as well as what will happen to their estate when they pass. [...]

I have been a certified mediator for over 25 years. My skills as a mediator are different from my skills as an attorney. Nonetheless, I use my skills and knowledge as an attorney in any mediation case. My mediation clients get a double value, a two-for-one deal. A mediator facilitates and listens. I try to [...]

February is the second month of the year. Time sure is flying. February is one of my favorite months as it is the month of my birth and the month of love. The flower of the month surprisingly is not a rose, but violets, irises and primroses. Violets are symbolic of romance, fertility and love. [...]

Did you know that a post-nup can save a marriage?  I am sure that you have heard of pre-nups where about to be married couples enter into an agreement to safeguard certain assets and determine what will happen if there is a divorce. We will discuss this more fully in a layer edition. There is [...]

There was a recent decision by Judge Castorina, Jr. because of a husband's failure to report his accurate  income,  the court felt that there was credible evidence to impute income to him. As a result, the court's calculation used additional income in determining maintenance and child support and counsel fees for a pendente lite award.  [...]

This year the DePalo Law Firm Newsletter will be devoted to self-care - 2024 will be a year of advice on how to become the best version of yourself through self-care, and self-improvement. We will also continue to empower you with legal information to use in your life.  The goal is to improve your quality [...]