By Kimberly B. Tyson The recent “innocent spouse” tax case of Zaheen v. Commissioner, T.C. Memo. 2026-7, is noteworthy in two respects. One, it reminds us that abuse permeates socioeconomic strata. Two, several objective factors in the analytical framework for innocent spouse cases should have precluded relief to the requesting spouse (here, the wife), but […]
By Chris Beck Family law cases involving alcohol abuse present some of the most challenging issues courts and attorneys face. Allegations of misuse often lead to contested custody battles, heightened conflict, and concerns about child safety. For parents in recovery, proving sobriety consistently can be the difference between restricted visitation and meaningful parenting time. In […]
By Melissa J. Essick High-net-worth child support disputes require a blend of financial sophistication and practical evidence. This guide outlines how to prepare and present these cases effectively under North Carolina law. The Quick Backdrop As of the 2023 update, if the parents’ combined adjusted gross income is less than $40,000 per month ($480,000/year), the […]
By Olivia Lowery More than a court order, reunification therapy gives families the chance to rebuild what conflict has broken. The Human Side of Custody Disputes In family law, some of the most painful cases aren’t about property or even money—they’re about children who resist contact with a parent. For attorneys and judges, these situations […]
By Susan Simos and Ketan Soni Has everyone heard the big news? No, not how good “The Life of A Showgirl” is or how bad UNC Football is, but that there were edits to our beloved ED statute. Attached are the edits to N.C.G.S §50-20 made pursuant to Session Law 2025-25, effective October 1, 2025. […]
By Elysia Prendergast-Jones Join the Pro Bono team in some fun activities this bar year. Jay Jerkins and I, co-chairs of the Pro Bono section, want to welcome you to a new bar year with new opportunities for pro bono work. Why is pro bono important? The NC State Bar asks each lawyer to commit […]
By Amy Britt Asheville in Peak Season Who doesn’t want to escape to the mountains in October? With breathtaking views, vibrant fall colors, and a meeting and social venue at one of Asheville’s premier hotels, you’ll experience a CLE designed to inspire. 🔥 Inside the Intensive CLE This year’s Intensive CLE, co-planned by Lori Vitale, […]
By Susan Simos It’s that time of year again, time for foliage, football, tailgating, and of course, the Family Law Fall Program. This year’s program will take place in Winston-Salem, home of the Wake Forest Demon Deacons, Reynolds America, Krispy Kreme, and Texas Pete. Winston-Salem is also a great place to find fantastic restaurants, unique […]
By Larissa Mañón Mervin Dear Members of the NCBA Family Law Section, Welcome to a new bar year! It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your chair for the upcoming term. I look forward to building on the strong foundation laid by those who came before me and to working alongside all […]
By Olivia Lane When you are just beginning in your legal career, drafting a prenuptial agreement for a client may seem like a relatively easy task. Your firm may already have templates or drafts with boilerplate language to pull from, and your client may be happy with a cut-and-paste job. Clients usually do not understand […]