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Mediation in Rochester: Parenting Schedules

Mediation in Rochester: Parenting Schedules

Creating a parenting schedule is one of the most crucial aspects of divorce mediation, ensuring both parents remain actively involved in their child’s life. A well-structured schedule provides stability, reduces conflict, and fosters healthy co-parenting. At Bates...

Mediation in Rochester: Creating a Parenting Plan That Works

Mediation in Rochester: Creating a Parenting Plan That Works

Divorce is challenging, especially when children are involved. One of the most important aspects of mediation in Rochester is developing a parenting plan that prioritizes your child’s well-being while meeting both parents’ needs. At Bates Family Law, we guide parents...

Mediation in Rochester: A Guide to New York’s Divorce Laws

Mediation in Rochester: A Guide to New York’s Divorce Laws

Divorce is a significant life transition, and choosing mediation in Rochester can make the process more efficient, affordable, and less stressful. At Bates Family Law, we help couples navigate New York divorce laws, ensuring informed and fair agreements. If you’re...

Divorce Mediation Frequently Asked Questions

Divorce Mediation Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: What is divorce mediation? This is the most frequently asked question about divorce mediation. Divorce mediation is a collaborative approach to divorce where a neutral third party, the mediator, assists the couple in reaching mutually acceptable...

The Power of Uncontested Divorce in Rochester

The Power of Uncontested Divorce in Rochester

Divorce is never easy, but it doesn’t have to be a long, stressful, or expensive battle. For couples in Rochester area, an uncontested divorce offers a peaceful and cost-effective way to dissolve a marriage with mutual respect and cooperation.  Why Choose an...

The Power of Divorce Mediation in Rochester

The Power of Divorce Mediation in Rochester

Divorce is a challenging and emotionally charged process that can leave couples feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about their future. However, there is a powerful alternative to traditional divorce proceedings: divorce mediation. This collaborative and structured approach empowers couples to actively participate in the decision-making process, find mutually beneficial solutions, and preserve their relationships even in the face of dissolution. Below are a few of the compelling reasons why couples should choose divorce mediation as their preferred method of navigating this life transition.

What is a Note of Issue?

What is a Note of Issue?

A Note of Issue is a legal document that, when filed with the court, informs the court that the case is ready for the next step. In an uncontested divorce, the Note of Issue informs the court that either through default or settlement the matter can now proceed to...

Dividing Retirement Assets

Dividing Retirement Assets

In New York State, all marital property is subject to the state’s Equitable Distribution Law. This includes, but is not limited to, assets such as real property, personal property, checking/savings accounts, and of course retirement accounts. Traditional/Roth IRAs, 401(k)s, 403(b)s, and 457(b)s are the types that most often come to mind and frequently are the simplest to deal with. Another type of retirement account that is waning in popularity and sometimes overlooked, but potentially holds the greatest value, is a pension.

Pensions and Divorce

Pensions and Divorce

In New York State, all marital property is subject to the state’s Equitable Distribution Law. This includes, but is not limited to, assets such as real property, personal property, checking/savings accounts, and of course retirement accounts. Traditional/Roth IRAs, 401(k)s, 403(b)s, and 457(b)s are the types that most often come to mind and frequently are the simplest to deal with. Another type of retirement account that is waning in popularity and sometimes overlooked, but potentially holds the greatest value, is a pension.

Grounds for Divorce

Grounds for Divorce

Divorce is a legal action that ends or dissolves a marriage. In New York State, you must have “grounds,” or a legally acceptable reason, for divorce.

Divorce Mediation in Rochester: A Better Alternative to Litigation

Divorce Mediation in Rochester: A Better Alternative to Litigation

Going through a major life event such as divorce is a significant and stressful experience. It’s not only emotionally devastating and can make you feel out of control, but the divorce process itself can be long, drawn-out and destructive to everyone involved, including your children. Divorce mediation offers a way to regain that sense of control, as well as many additional benefits when compared to a typical, lawyer-driven divorce. Follow the link to see the five biggest advantages to choosing divorce mediation.

Divorce Mediation Myths in Rochester

Divorce Mediation Myths in Rochester

Despite being a process that is quite possibly thousands of years old and been in use in its modern form for decades, mediation is still a mystery to many and often has many misconceptions associated with it. Divorce mediation is of course no different. Below are some of the most common divorce mediation myths debunked.

Dear Rochester, Retire Well Podcast

Dear Rochester, Retire Well Podcast

In this episode, David Pulcini welcomes guest Alison Bates, a matrimonial and family law attorney at Bates Family Law, P.C. Together, they discuss the financial and legal considerations that come with the divorce process and answer frequently asked divorce questions.

My Two-House, Duffel-Bag Life

My Two-House, Duffel-Bag Life

When my parents divorced, I lost the link that held our family together. And then I found it.

By Natalie Muñoz

Bates Family Law, P.C. • (585) 433-4661