tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20151350802699114842024-03-13T09:37:06.356-04:00The Divorce CenterSince 1983, the non-profit Divorce Center has been easing the trauma of divorce. Comprised of volunteer attorneys, mediators, psychotherapists, career counselors, and financial experts, we believe that families experiencing divorce need to be well informed and supported throughout the process. The Divorce Center Blog is a forum for our members to interact and provide insight into their experience with divorcing spouses.Justin L. Kelseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02756842890135196855noreply@blogger.comBlogger27125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015135080269911484.post-40223619602490174772011-10-28T17:00:00.001-04:002011-10-28T17:09:31.709-04:00DIVORCE IN MASSACHUSETTS A 4-PART WEEKLY PUBLIC EDUCATION & DISCUSSION SEMINAR SERIES<p class="p1" style="text-align: center;"><b>THE DIVORCE CENTER, INC.</b></p> <p class="p2" style="text-align: center;">presents:</p> <p class="p3" style="text-align: center;"><span class="s1"><b>DIVORCE IN MASSACHUSETTS </b></span><b>A 4-PART WEEKLY PUBLIC EDUCATION & DISCUSSION SEMINAR SERIES</b></p> <p class="p2">Nov. 8, 2011 – Dec. 6, 2011; Tuesdays from 7:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M.</p> <p class="p2">Needham Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital – Cardiology Conference Room - 148 Chestnut Street, Needham, MA 02492</p> <p class="p2">FREE – ($20 per session suggested donation)</p> <p class="p1"><b>Who is the Seminar for?</b></p> <p class="p4">This 4-Part Seminar Series is intended for people contemplating or going through a separation or divorce. Our members, including attorneys, therapists, mediators, and financial experts will provide you with valuable information about the divorce process in Massachusetts. There is the opportunity for Questions and Answers after each session.</p> <p class="p1"><b>What will you Learn?</b></p> <p class="p3"><b>Session I – The Divorce Process</b></p> <p class="p3">Tuesday, November 8, 2011 7-9PM</p> <p class="p3">-<span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>Where and how to begin: -<span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>What needs to be filed and where? -<span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>What is Mediation? -<span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>What is Collaborative Law? -<span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>How do I find the right professionals?</p> <p class="p3"><b>Session II – Finances, Assets & Alimony</b></p> <p class="p3">Tuesday, November 15, 2011 7-9PM</p> <p class="p3">-<span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>What is marital property: -<span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>What is an equitable division? -<span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>How do taxes affect the process? -<span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>Will my House be sold? -<span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>What is a QDRO? -<span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>What is alimony?</p> <p class="p3"><b>Session III – Children & Divorce</b></p> <p class="p3">Tuesday, November 29, 2011 7-9PM</p> <p class="p3">-<span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>How much will child support be? -<span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>How long will child support be paid? -<span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>What is a Guardian Ad Litem? -<span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>How do I create a parenting plan? -<span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>What does custody mean in court? -<span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>How do I minimize the trauma on</p> <p class="p3">children?</p> <p class="p3"><b>Session IV – After Divorce</b></p> <p class="p3">Tuesday, December 6, 2011 7-9PM</p> <p class="p3">-<span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>How do I get through the Divorce? -<span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>What are some coping strategies? -<span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>Can a divorce judgment be modified? -<span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>How do I enforce the judgment?</p> <p class="p3"><b><a href="http://www.eventbrite.com/event/2231795360">REGISTER ONLINE</a></b></p>Justin L. Kelseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02756842890135196855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015135080269911484.post-58124151005257034802011-09-13T07:53:00.002-04:002011-09-13T07:57:25.028-04:00THE NEW HOMESTEAD ACT: Networking/Professional Development Event<span style="font-weight:bold;">THE NEW HOMESTEAD ACT</span><br /><br />Thursday, October 06, 2011 from 7:30 AM to 9:30 AM (ET) <br /> <br />Newton Marriott in the 'Boat Room'<br />Intersection Rtes 95/128<br />Mass Pike & Rte. 30<br />Newton, MA <br /><br />7:30 - 8:15 AM - Meet and talk with other professionals - share ideas<br />8:15 - 9:30 AM - Lecture and discussion<br /><br />Speaker: Laurance S.L.Lee, Esquire <br /><br />Topic: The new Massachusetts Homestead Act made several changes to this important statutory provision. Learn how to ensure that transfers between current and former spouses comply with the statute, what language should be in separation agreements to avoid title issues in the future, as well as other provisions that attorneys, mediators and financial planners should be familiar with when representing divorcing clients with real estate interests.<br /><br />Attorney Lee is a member of the firm Rosenberg, Freedman & Goldstein LLP in Newton, MA. Attorney Lee holds both a JD and MBA from Suffolk University. He represents lenders, sellers and purchasers in commercial and residential real estate matters. Additionally, his practice includes land use and zoning matters, condominium conversions, construction financing, commercial leasing, buy-sell of restaurants and licensing. Attorney Lee has presented to other professionals, including financial planners, on issues relating to real estate. He is a member of the Real Estate Bar Association of Massachusetts.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.eventbrite.com/event/2153970584/?ref=enivte&utm_source=eb_email&utm_media=email&utm_compaign=invitenew&utm_term=readmore&invite=MTIzODg3Ni9qa2Vsc2V5QGtlbHNleXRyYXNrLmNvbS8w">Register Here.</a>Justin L. Kelseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02756842890135196855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015135080269911484.post-10093501152768838482011-07-20T17:25:00.003-04:002011-07-20T17:26:00.039-04:00<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">THE
DIVORCE CENTER, INC.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">presents:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;">SEPARATED PARENTS</span></u></b><b><u><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 18.0pt;"><br />
</span></u></b><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">A 2-PART WEEKLY PUBLIC<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">EDUCATION & DISCUSSION<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">SEMINAR SERIES<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">WHEN:<span> </span></span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">July 21, & July
28, 2011 from 7:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">WHERE:<span> </span></span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Needham Beth Israel
Deaconess Hospital – Cardiology Conference Room<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span> </span>148 Chestnut Street,
Needham, MA 02492<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">COST:<span> </span></span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">FREE – ($20 per session suggested
donation)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">What is a Separated
Parent?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">The Separated Parents
Seminar Series is intended for people contemplating or going through a
separation or divorce and who have minor children.<span> </span>Separated Parents can include, divorcing
spouses with children, separated spouses with children and unwed parents with
children.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">What will you Learn?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Session
I – What is custody & how do I make a Parenting Plan?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Thursday, July 21, 2011
– 7:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">The Following Questions
will be answered:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span>-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">What
is a Guardian ad Litem?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span>-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">What
is a Parenting Coordinator?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span>-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">How
do I create a Parenting Plan?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span>-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">What
do judges look for in custody orders?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">What
are the standards for relocation?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">How
to minimize the trauma on children?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Session II – What should I expect for support
& insurance?</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Thursday, July 28, 2011
– 7:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">The Following Questions
will be answered:</span></div>
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</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Who
pays for health insurance?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span>-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">How
much will child support be?</span></div>
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</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">How
long will child support last?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span>-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Should
there be life insurance as well?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span>-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">How
do we plan for College costs?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><a href="http://www.eventbrite.com/event/1869087491">REGISTER ONLINE</a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br clear="all" style="mso-break-type: section-break; page-break-before: always;" /></span>Justin L. Kelseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02756842890135196855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015135080269911484.post-85306046294163548122011-05-25T13:36:00.000-04:002011-05-25T13:36:44.905-04:00Annual Meeting - Alimony Reform & RaffleYou are invited to our Annual Meeting and Professional Development Event!<br />
<br />
<b>Topic: ALIMONY REFORM BILL</b><br />
<br />
<b>Speaker: Attorney Fern L. Frolin</b><br />
<br />
Fern L. Frolin is a partner with the Wellesley firm of Grindle, Robinson, Goodhue & Frolin. Since 1987, Ms. Frolin served on the trial court task force that drafted the 2009 Massachusetts Child Support Guidelines and the Joint Judiciary Committee advisory committee that recently drafted a Bill to Reform and Improve Alimony. <br />
<br />
<b>Wednesday, June 15, 2011 from 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM (ET) </b><br />
<br />
5:00 - 6:30 PM - Get-together & Annual Membership Meeting<br />
Gourmet Hors d'Oeuvres Buffet will be served. Cash bar available.<br />
Raffle prizes. <br />
<br />
Prizes include:<br />
2 Red Sox tickets<br />
Free membership and Directory listing for 2011-2012<br />
Free entry to all Professional Development events 2011-2012<br />
Titleist Stand Golf Bag (blk/red) plus one dozen golf balls<br />
More to come.......<br />
<br />
6:30 - 8 PM - Professional Development Event Speaker:...<br />
<br />
<b>Location: <br />
Crowne Plaza Hotel</b><br />
320 Washington Street<br />
Exit 17 off the Mass Pike<br />
Newton MA <br />
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<a href="http://www.eventbrite.com/event/1681267717/?ref=enivte&invite=OTc0NjA3L2prZWxzZXlAa2Vsc2V5dHJhc2suY29tLzA%3D%0A&utm_source=eb_email&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=invitenew&utm_term=attend">Register Here</a>Justin L. Kelseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02756842890135196855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015135080269911484.post-44816789689510138552011-03-01T23:31:00.001-05:002011-03-01T23:34:42.177-05:00Needham Seminar Series on DivorceThe Divorce Center Offers Needham Seminar Series on “Divorce in Massachusetts” — Five Sessions on the Various Key Aspects of Divorce<br /><br />Starting <span style="font-weight:bold;">March 8th</span> in Needham, Weekly Sessions Presented by Legal, Financial and Mental Health Professionals Will Address the Diverse Questions and Concerns of Divorcing Couples and Parents <br /><br />The Divorce Center, a non-profit organization of professionals from multiple disciplines providing support and education for people going through separation or divorce, is offering a public education seminar series in Needham, MA entitled, “Divorce in Massachusetts.” Offered Tuesdays from March 8th to April 5th, the five-part series of sessions will cover all the legal, financial and psychological aspects of divorce, helping divorcing individuals and their families to ease the unavoidable trauma. The sessions will be held at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital, 148 Chestnut Street, Needham, MA. <br /><br />Professionals supporting divorcing and separating couples (e.g. attorneys, mediators, financial planners, social workers, and counselors) will lead the sessions, addressing issues such as dealing with the divorce process, protecting assets, insurance, child custody, parenting, the psychological effects of divorce and coping strategies. The sessions will meet from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., allowing time for the professionals to respond to questions and concerns from attendees. <br /><br />The subjects of the five sessions in the seminar series and the dates they will be held in Needham are as follows: <br /><br />I. “What is the Process and Where Do I start?” – Tuesday, March 8.<br />II. “How Do I Protect My Finances and Assets?” – Tuesday, March 15.<br />III. “What Should I Expect for Support & Insurance?” – Tuesday, March 22.<br />IV. “What is Custody and How Do I Make a Parenting Plan?” – Tuesday, March 29.<br />V. “How to Get Through My Divorce & Prepare For After?” – Tuesday, April 5.<br /><br />The seminar series is offered free of charge, however a donation of $20 per session is suggested. For more information on the “Divorce in Massachusetts” seminar series and to register for the sessions, visit: http://thedivorcecenter.org/public/seminars.php. <br><br>Justin L. Kelseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02756842890135196855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015135080269911484.post-61328155006333700792011-01-03T09:47:00.000-05:002011-01-03T09:47:28.326-05:00Five Part Seminar Series - Starting Jan 20, 2011<div style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The Divorce Center Offers Seminar Series on “Divorce in Massachusetts” — Five Sessions on the Various Key Aspects of Divorce</span></b></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Starting January 20th in Quincy and March 8th in Needham, Weekly Sessions Presented by Legal, Financial and Mental Health Professionals Will Address the Diverse Questions and Concerns of Divorcing Couples and Parents </b></i></div><br />
<b>Newton, Mass. – December 30, 2010</b> – The Divorce Center, a non-profit organization of professionals from multiple disciplines providing support and education for people going through separation or divorce, is offering a public education seminar series entitled, “Divorce in Massachusetts.” Starting January 5, 2011 in Quincy, MA, and March 8, 2011 in Needham, MA, the five-part series of sessions will cover all the legal, financial and psychological aspects of divorce, helping divorcing individuals and their families to ease the unavoidable trauma. <br />
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Professionals supporting divorcing and separating couples (e.g. attorneys, mediators, financial planners, social workers, and counselors) will lead the sessions, addressing issues such as dealing with the divorce process, protecting assets, insurance, child custody, parenting, the psychological effects of divorce and coping strategies. The sessions will meet from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., allowing time for the professionals to respond to questions and concerns from attendees. <br />
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The subjects of the five sessions in the seminar series and the dates they will be held in Quincy and Needham are as follows: <br />
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I. “What is the Process and Where Do I start?” – Thursday, January 20 in Quincy; Tuesday, March 8 in Needham.<br />
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II. “How Do I Protect My Finances and Assets?” – Thursday, January 27 in Quincy; Tuesday, March 15 in Needham.<br />
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III. “What Should I Expect for Support & Insurance?” – Thursday, February 3 in Quincy; Tuesday, March 22 in Needham.<br />
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IV. “What is Custody and How Do I Make a Parenting Plan?” – Thursday, February 10 in Quincy; Tuesday, March 29 in Needham.<br />
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V. “How to Get Through My Divorce & Prepare For After?” – Thursday, February 24 in Quincy; Tuesday, April 5 in Needham.<br />
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The Quincy, MA location for the seminar series is the Roche Brothers Community Room, 101 Falls Boulevard, Quincy, MA. The Needham, MA location is the Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital, 148 Chestnut Street, Needham, MA. <br />
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The seminar series is offered free of charge, however a donation of $20 per session is suggested. For more information on the “Divorce in Massachusetts” seminar series and to register for the sessions, visit: <a href="http://thedivorcecenter.org/public/seminars.php">http://thedivorcecenter.org/public/seminars.php</a>.Justin L. Kelseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02756842890135196855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015135080269911484.post-58118040023748678142010-11-17T10:48:00.001-05:002010-11-17T10:52:42.106-05:00Same-Sex Divorce, Parentage for Same Sex Couples - A Networking/Professional Development Event<b>SAME-SEX DIVORCE, PARENTAGE FOR SAME-SEX COUPLES</b><br /><br />Wednesday, December 8, 2010<br /><br />Crown Plaza Boston – Newton Hotel<br />320 Washington Street, Newton, MA 02458<br /><br />5:30-6:00 PM Meet and talk with other professionals – Share ideas ~ <br /> Make new contacts ~ Enjoy refreshments<br />6:00-7:30 PM Lecture and Discussion<br /><br />Attorney Joyce Kauffman will discuss the intricacies and complications of same sex divorce. Discussion will include: <br /><br />• Impact of the Federal Defense of Marriage Act;<br />• Custody and Parentage Issues; <br />• Portability of Same Sex Marriage;<br />• Dissolution of Domestic Partnerships and Civil Unions.<br /><br />Speaker Biography: JOYCE KAUFFMAN is a graduate of Northeastern University School of Law and a trained Mediator and Collaborative Lawyer. Her practice focuses exclusively on family law, with an emphasis on issues impacting the LGBT community. Attorney Kauffman is a member of the Family Law Advisory Council of the National Center for Lesbian Rights, former co-chair of the Massachusetts Lesbian and Gay Bar Association (now known as the Massachusetts LGBTQ Bar Association), and former chair of that organization’s Family Law Section. She is also a member of the Emeritus Board of Directors of Family Equality, a national organization advocating for the rights of LGBTQ families. Lawyers Weekly selected her as one of the Lawyers of the Year in 2009.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><a href="http://www.eventbrite.com/event/1049895265">Register here.</a></span>Justin L. Kelseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02756842890135196855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015135080269911484.post-10507439744901607952010-09-20T09:33:00.001-04:002010-09-20T09:33:17.856-04:00Seeking a Marketing ConsultantThe Divorce Center is a Massachusetts non-profit that educates and connects the public and professionals who specialize in Divorce resources (attorneys, financial planners, mediators, therapists, etc.). We are looking for help in reaching the public with our message, and of the highest priority in doing this is increasing attendance at our public education seminars (which to date have primarily been marketed via word-of-mouth and brochures through our membership). We believe that attendance could be increased by advertising in traditional and social media resources (which we could use professional expertise to connect with) and by increasing our online content resources.<br />
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We are hoping to find a part-time consultant to work with us on (and who has experience in) the following:<br />
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1. Developing an organizational strategy for involving membership in production of content (articles, presentations, etc.)<br />
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2. Developing (and assisting in the execution of) direct marketing of seminars.<br />
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3. Developing (and assisting in the execution of) advertising of seminars both through social media (twitter, facebook, linkedIn) and traditional media (local community resources, newspapers, etc.)<br />
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Ideally we would find someone who has experience with non-profit organizations and with our niche market (divorcing or potentially divorcing clients).<br />
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We are looking for proposals for a six-month part-time partnership, with the possibility of further work depending on results.<br />
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Please forward this to any contacts you may have that might be interested in this position or feel free to let us know the names of any people or resources that you believe could assist us in finding the right candidate.<br />
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Candidates can contact us at (888) 434-8787 or info@thedivorcecenter.org<br />
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Thank you for your time.Justin L. Kelseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02756842890135196855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015135080269911484.post-9372113727902736972010-06-11T12:38:00.002-04:002010-06-11T12:48:48.666-04:00Annual Meeting and Professional Development EventTopic: "Immigraton Issues in Family Law"<br /><br />Speaker: Attorney Srinivas Ramineni<br /><br />Attorney Ramineni practiced in India before coming to the United States, where he graduated cum laude from Suffolk University Law School. His practice, located in Waltham, includes both immigration and family law. He is knowledgeable about the legal, practical and emotional issues that are present when immigration and family law intersect. Join us as Attorney Ramineni discusses this timely topic that impacts all areas of family law.<br /><br />Tuesday, June 29, 2010 from 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM (ET) <br /><br />5:30 - 6:30 PM - Get-together & Annual Membership Meeting<br /> Gourmet Hors d'Oeuvres Buffet will be served. Cash bar available.<br />6:30 - 8 PM - Professional Development Event<br /><br />at the Crowne Plaza Hotel<br />320 Washington Street<br />Exit 17 off the Mass Pike<br />Newton MA <br /><br /><a href="http://www.eventbrite.com/event/728307387/?ref=eivte&invite=MzcwOTY4L2prZWxzZXlAa2Vsc2V5dHJhc2suY29tLzA%3D%0A&utm_source=eb_email&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=invite">Register Here.</a>Justin L. Kelseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02756842890135196855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015135080269911484.post-3640000455951118572010-06-11T12:36:00.001-04:002010-06-11T12:38:33.741-04:00Access to Justice: New Procedures in Probate & Family CourtOn March 15, 2010, the Chief Justice of the Probate & Family Court released uniform <a href="http://www.mass.gov/courts/courtsandjudges/courts/probateandfamilycourt/schedulingpracticesandprocedures.pdf"><span style="font-weight:bold;">Probate and Family Court Scheduling Practices and Procedures</span></a>.<br /><br />These procedures include certain requirements intended to promote predictability and uniformity of practice for the scheduling of all types of hearings in the Probate and Family Courts throughout the Commonwealth. The practices include mandatory scheduling of a next event and other requirements intended to keep cases moving forward.<br /><br />One of the changes is to the Motion scheduling practice. Although some courts, such as Plymouth Probate & Family Court, previously allowed for scheduling of Motions at the discretion of the litigants (within the <a href="http://web.archive.org/web/20070212092822/www.dvi.neu.edu/flr/rules/rules6.htm">Notice rules</a>), other courts, such as Norfolk, Middlesex and Suffolk Counties, only allowed for scheduling of Motions by the rules of their individual trial departments. According to the Chief Justice's new procedures:<br /><br />"There shall be no restrictions on the number or timing of motions which<br />may be filed except as set forth above regardless of the nature of the underlying<br />complaint..."<br /><br />The exception is that the First Justices shall have discretion, with the approval of the Chief Justice, to limit the marking of Motions. "Any limitation on motion sessions approved by the Chief Justice shall be posted in the division (Registry of Probate and courtrooms) and on the web site of the Probate and Family Court."<br /><br />This should result in greater consistency throughout the counties, something probably more noticeable to attorneys than individual litigants. In the counties that used to limit the number of Motions, this will also result in getting into court more quickly (usually something desired by clients). <br /><br />There is a downside though as well. At a recent Motion session in Suffolk which I attended with a client, there were 76 Motions scheduled. Luckily we were number three, but I would hate to be number 76. Although you might get into court a week or two before you otherwise would have, you should plan to be there all day.<br /><br />Hopefully, as the courts get used to the new system these overloaded days will be less likely. Either way, I believe consistency of procedure among the counties is a good thing. Access to Justice should be the same no matter where you live.<br><br><br />Reposted with permission from the <a href="http://kelseytrask.blogspot.com/">Kelsey & Trask, P.C. Family Law Blog.</a>Justin L. Kelseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02756842890135196855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015135080269911484.post-15667148694150931762010-05-19T16:55:00.000-04:002010-05-19T16:56:38.109-04:00What if I can't take the Parent Education Course? Is there an alternative option?Under Standing Order 99-1 of the Probate & Family Court, if you have any minor children at the time of the filing of your divorce case, you are required to attend the Court-sponsored Parents Apart education program before you can present either a settlement of your case, or present your case for trial. A brochure which lists the names, addresses and telephone numbers of the various organizations that provide this program, in alphabetical order by town, is available by <a href="http://www.mass.gov/courts/courtsandjudges/courts/probateandfamilycourt/providerlist.pdf">clicking here.</a><br /><br />You should immediately enroll in and attend this course because your case cannot end until you have completed the course, which consists of two 3 hour sessions. After completion of the program you will be provided with a golden Certificate of Completion, which you must provide to the Court. If you give this golden copy to your attorney, they can ensure that it is properly filed with the Court and this requirement fulfilled.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">But, what if you can't attend?</span><br /><br />I have worked on numerous cases where one of the parties had moved to another country or state and was unable to return to Massachusetts to take the course, usually due to financial constraints. In those limited circumstances, Judge's will sometimes allow a <span style="font-weight:bold;">Motion to Waive Attendance</span>. <br /><br />Pursuant to a recent <a href="http://www.mass.gov/courts/courtsandjudges/courts/probateandfamilycourt/pr041210-alternative-parent-ed.pdf">Press Release from the Chief Justice of the Probate and Family Court Department</a>, dated April 12, 2010, the court may suggest use of a DVD as a replacement for participation in the program (as a an alternative to a complete waiver). <br /><br />According to the Press Release: "On a limited basis, use of a DVD program entitled <span style="font-style:italic;">KidCare for Co-Parents: An Educational Program for Divorcing Families</span> is now available when a judge is considering a waiver.<br /><br />KidCare for Co-Parents is a four and a half hour multimedia, interactive program which can be used with a DVD player on either a personal computer or a television screen. Completion of the interactive aspects of the DVD is required in order to obtain the Certificate of Attendance which must then be provided to the Court."<br><br>Justin L. Kelseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02756842890135196855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015135080269911484.post-21413058178033897602010-04-30T18:01:00.003-04:002010-04-30T18:03:38.717-04:00Issues in Divorce with Families with Disabled PersonsThe Divorce Center presents the next Networking/Professional Development Event: <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Issues in Divorce with Families with Disabled Persons</span><br /><br />5:30 - 6:00 PM - Meet and talk with other professionals <br /> Share ideas, make new contacts, enjoy refreshments<br />6:00 - 7:30 PM - Lecture and Discussion<br /><br />Effective counseling for divorcing families that include persons with disabilities requires addressing the complex issues faced by these families. What do you do when a spouse has a significant mental health problem or chronic illness? What needs to be addressed where the parties have a child with special needs? What role do government benefits play in crafting an appropriate settlement? Come and learn to identify potential issues when a divorcing family also faces the challenges of disability.<br />Speaker:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Alexandra "Sasha" Golden</span><br /> <br />Alexandra "Sasha" Golden is the Principal of Golden Law Center located in Needham. She has provided legal services to the elderly, persons with disabilities and their families for over 15 years. She serves on the Board of the Massachusetts Guardianship Association and is a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) and the Probate Section of the Massachusetts Bar Association. She also serves as a guardian ad litem on behalf of persons with disabilities in the Probate Court. Ms. Golden received both her undergraduate and law degrees from Boston College.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Location:</span><br />Wellesley Public Library<br />Main Branch - Arnold Room<br />530 Washington St<br />Wellesley, MA 02482<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><a href="http://www.eventbrite.com/event/665521593/?ref=eivte&invite=MzM4MTYxL2prZWxzZXlAa2Vsc2V5dHJhc2suY29tLzA%3D%0A&utm_source=eb_email&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=invite">Register Online Here</a></span>Justin L. Kelseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02756842890135196855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015135080269911484.post-87689845680293987842010-04-10T14:47:00.002-04:002010-04-10T14:52:50.442-04:00PAUL R. BLATCHFORD - What does a Vocational Expert do?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkdLU9U4VVX2qXEvp5LKhRvQE5PuGDtTKYLvEBRkYUl5hqZ0Ysb8RB3w6u-vOZtVXtLipVMfLyP3Yo-S7-8rWsWcab8fZVEsR4VSDGtgEs_OuSjcbgTOCGYX6tFZOBvbBJFJjxRk6EGg0/s1600/paul+copy.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 146px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkdLU9U4VVX2qXEvp5LKhRvQE5PuGDtTKYLvEBRkYUl5hqZ0Ysb8RB3w6u-vOZtVXtLipVMfLyP3Yo-S7-8rWsWcab8fZVEsR4VSDGtgEs_OuSjcbgTOCGYX6tFZOBvbBJFJjxRk6EGg0/s320/paul+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5458583637914892978" /></a><br />Meet Paul R. Blatchford – one of our newer members of the Board of Directors. Unlike many of our other board members, Paul is not an attorney, nor is he a psychologist or a financial planner. Paul is a vocational consultant and expert. <br /><br />Paul graduated from Boston University with a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration. He subsequently earned a Masters in Educational Counseling from Suffolk University. Additionally, he has had extensive training for Vocational Testing and Labor Market Research. Paul is certified by the American Board of Vocational Experts as a Diplomate – the highest status that one can reach. <br /><br />After graduating from college, Paul initially worked for Youth Activities of Southeastern Massachusetts, providing services to the Welfare Department under the Work Incentive (WIN) program. In this capacity, Paul provided counseling, vocational training, and assisted in job placement of women who were welfare recipients. Paul also worked with severely handicapped individuals for the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission. For seventeen years, he was contracted by the Social Security Administration to provide testimony in disability hearings, as an impartial vocational expert. <br /><br />As a member of the Board of Directors, Paul also serves as Co-Chair of the Professional Development Committee. This committee is the arm of The Divorce Center which offers seminars to our membership and other professionals interested in a particular topic. He is also member of the National Association of Disability Evaluators (NADE), and the International Association of Rehabilitative Professionals (IARP). <br /><br />Paul has maintained a private practice as a vocational consultant for more than thirty years. He has been qualified as an expert witness by numerous federal, state, and administrative bodies. He has offices in Brookline and Worcester.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">What exactly does a Vocational Consultant do?</span> <br /><br />Initially, consultant assesses the capacity of a person to do work and to earn money. If a person is able to work, then the vocational expert determines this person’s ability to sustain work, i.e., whether the person can work full time or part time. This assessment is done by gathering vocational information such as the person’s age, education, prior work history, and presence or absence of disability. Once this information is compiled, the vocational expert develops an analysis of the individual’s vocational profile and earning capacity. In certain instances, standardized vocational testing can be utilized. <br /> <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Who would have need for a Vocational Expert? </span> Various organizations, such as the Industrial Accident Board and the Social Security Administration, along with attorneys who concentrate in divorce cases, wrongful death, personal injury, long-term disability, and medical malpractice cases utilize these specialized evaluations. <br /> <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Why and when would a divorce attorney require such services?</span> In divorce litigation, an attorney may want his or her client’s employability factors analyzed to determine what type of jobs (full or part-time) their client would potentially be able to perform. The expert witness would also determine the earning capacity associated with those jobs. In divorce litigation, it can also be beneficial for an attorney to secure this information on their client’s unemployed or underemployed spouse. This information can be utilized in mediation or in trial. It can provide a judge or mediator with data necessary to make an informed decision.<br /><br />It is helpful for an attorney to hire a vocational consultant, such as Paul, prior to drafting the interrogatories and prior to conducting any depositions. Paul could utilize his expertise to assist the attorney in knowing what questions to ask for both of these discovery tools. <br /><br />When Paul is not working, he is very involved with his family. He is married and has two teen-aged children. If Paul is not at home or working, you might be able to find him fishing on Cape Cod, or maintaining his colorful and diverse garden. <br /><br />If you would like to speak with Paul regarding his fees or to find out more about his services, he may be reached by calling 617-244-5642 or emailing him at paulblat@aol.comJustin L. Kelseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02756842890135196855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015135080269911484.post-84886633237158989652010-04-10T14:31:00.003-04:002010-04-10T14:38:47.513-04:00Free Divorce Seminar Series - Spring 2010<span style="font-weight:bold;">The Divorce Center</span><br />in association with the <span style="font-weight:bold;">Waban Improvement Society</span><br />is proud to present<br /><br /><a href="http://thedivorcecenter.org/public/seminars.php"><span style="font-weight:bold;">Everything You Want to Know About Divorce in Massachusetts<br />And Now You Can Ask.....</span></a><br /><br />Tuesdays, starting <span style="font-weight:bold;">April 27, 2010</span> at The Waban Library Center<br />Wednesdays, starting <span style="font-weight:bold;">May 5, 2010</span> at Braintree Rehab Hospital<br />Both venues: <span style="font-weight:bold;">7:00 - 9:00 PM</span><br /><br />Metrowest Address: Waban Library Center, 1608 Beacon St, Newton (Waban) <br /><br />Braintree Address: Braintree Rehabilitation Hospital, 250 Pond St., Braintree<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Session 1: What is the process and where do I start?</span><br />Date: April 27, 2010 - Waban<br />Date: May 5, 2010 - Braintree<br /><br />This session provides valuable, practical information about the divorce process and its alternatives (litigation vs. mediation/arbitration vs. collaboration) and how to choose the right attorney.<br /><br />You will:<br />Learn where and how to begin<br />Hear what needs to be filed and where<br />Gain appreciation for the important role of the Family Service Officers<br /><br />Presenters: <br />Laura Unflat, Esq., Rebecca Gagne, Esq., Barbara Marcus, Mediator - (Waban)<br />Rebecca Gagne, Esq., Lisa Lewis, Mediator, Karl Topor, Esq. - (Braintree)<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Session 2: How do I protect my finances?</span> <br />Date: May 4, 2010 - Metrowest<br />Date: May 12, 2010 - Braintree<br /><br />This session delivers tips about mandatory financial disclosures, court rules, the "discovery" process, the form and importance of motions for temporary orders. Learn the criteria considered by the courts to determine alimony and child support orders and whether a spouse should be ordered to move out of the marital home.<br /><br />You will:<br />Hear who should pay for medical insurance and expenses<br />Learn about the tax benefits (and burdens) to paying (and receiving) alimony vs. child support<br />Gain knowledge of what is considered “marital property” and how to divide it equitably and efficiently (including gifts and inheritances)<br />Receive tips on what judges look for and how to maximize your chances of getting a better financial award or settlement<br /><br />Presenters: <br />Karen Buckley, Esq., Barbara Shapiro, Financial Planner, Barbie Jetter, Mortgage Expert - (Waban)<br />Barbara Shapiro, Financial Planner, Barbie Jetter, Mortgage Expert, Karen Buckley, Esq. - (Braintree)<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Session 3: What about my children? </span><br />Date: May 11, 2010 - Waban<br />Date: May 19, 2010 - Braintree<br /><br />This session offers valuable information on the different types of custody arrangements available to divorced parents.<br /><br />You will:<br />Gain a full understanding of the roles and utilities of a Guardian ad Litem and a Parenting Coordinator<br />Receive tips on writing a reasonable, workable parenting plan<br />Learn what judges look for when crafting custodial orders and how to maximize your chances of getting the most favorable custodial order or settlement<br />Learn whether you or your spouse may relocate with the children in or outside the state, if court approval is required, and, if so, what judges look for when making move-related decisions.<br /><br />Presenters: <br />Justin Kelsey, Esq., Deb Smith, GAL/Parent Coordinator, Beth Ross, Mental Health Expert - (Waban) <br />Sue Klueppel, Esq., Alan Albert, Mental Health Expert; Tanya Gurevich, Parent Coordinator/GAL; Larry Dannenberg, College Solutions - (Braintree)<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Session 4: Where do I go from here? </span><br />Date: May 18, 2010 - Waban<br />Date: May 26, 2010 - Braintree<br /><br />Topics: This session focuses on delivering strategies for coping with divorce stress and pressure that can be brought on by managing changes in your daily life, helping your children adjust, coping with time-sharing holidays and vacations and dealing with overall schedule changes.<br /><br />You will:<br />Gain understanding about the psychological stages of divorce and its impact on you, your life, your family and your settlement possibilities<br />Learn ways of developing coping strategies to manage stress, balance family and work and gain control of your life<br />Hear how a satisfactory divorce judgment and/or agreement can be modified<br /><br />Presenters: <br />Bryna Kleven, Esq., Fran Davis, Mental Health Expert - (Waban)<br />Rachel Condon, Esq., Beth Ross, Mental Health Expert - (Braintree)<br /><br /><br />Question and Answer period after each session<br /><br />Program is being provided free of charge <br /><br />(Suggested Donation $20. per session)<br /><br />Register via mail at <br />The Divorce Center, P.O. Box 1207, Framingham, MA. 01701<br />Include your name, address, phone and email (for verification of registration), and desired class location.Justin L. Kelseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02756842890135196855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015135080269911484.post-22161185558429274562010-03-24T15:19:00.004-04:002010-03-24T15:26:51.095-04:00The Unemployed/Underemployed Spouse in a DivorcePaul Blatchford, a member of the Board of Directors of The Divorce Center, is scheduled to speak, along with Mary R. LaCivita of the Boston Law Collaborative, LLC at the Boston Bar Association regarding how to use a vocational expert in your family law case, including topics on selling the idea to the client, demonstrating the likely return on their investment, considerations for attributing income to an unemployed/underemployed spouse (such as how the new Child Support Guidelines are affected by attributed income) and how such a report can be the impetus for settlement.<br /><br />The program is entitled <span style="font-weight:bold;">The Unemployed/Underemployed Spouse in a Divorce Case</span>.<br /><br />The program, sponsored by the BBA’s Family Law Section, is at the <span style="font-weight:bold;">Boston Bar Association's office on 16 Beacon Street, Boston, MA</span> on <span style="font-weight:bold;">Tuesday, April 13th from 5:30 to 6:30</span> immediately following the Family Law Steering Committee’s meeting at 4:30. <br /><br />Paul and Mary will discuss and answer questions regarding when to engage a vocational expert in a divorce case, how to utilize and work with a vocational expert, selling the idea of a vocational expert to your client and demonstrating the likely return on their investment, attributing income to an unemployed/underemployed spouse such as how the new Child Support Guidelines handle attributed income and how a vocational evaluation of an unemployed/underemployed spouse can be an impetus for settlement or used at trial. <br /><br />For further details or to sign up visit <a href="https://www.bostonbar.org/ebusiness/Meetings/EventDetail.aspx?ID=3303">the BBA's site here</a>.Justin L. Kelseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02756842890135196855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015135080269911484.post-63886548980600417592010-03-23T10:20:00.001-04:002010-03-23T10:24:12.175-04:00Meet the Board - Barbara Marcus and Lisa LewisBarbara Marcus and Lisa Lewis are both members of the Board of Directors of the Divorce Center and serve on the Public Education committee. Lisa and Barbara are both mediators and the founding partners of Navigating Resolutions, a mediation and conflict management firm. They help families have difficult conversations and make difficult decisions in a private and confidential setting. Their family mediation practice includes divorce, post-divorce, elder, disabilities and special needs. <br /><br />Lisa has received extensive advanced mediation training in divorce, elder issues, landlord/tenant, collaborative law, negotiation, facilitation, parent coordination and Non Violent Communication. She gained invaluable experience serving as a volunteer mediator on the Boston Municipal and District Court Mediation Panel of Mediation Works Inc. She is also the Mediation Coordinator for Dance New England. Lisa received her BA from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst and a Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Life University, Marietta, Georgia. She operated a private chiropractic practice for 18 years in Scituate, MA. Lisa has 3 children and one grandson and enjoys dancing Swing and Argentine tango. <br /><br />Barbara has received advanced education in collaborative law, parent /child, divorce, elder, marital and landlord /tenant mediation, parent coordination, advocacy, special needs planning and disability issues. Barbara currently mediates family and civil cases for the Harvard Mediation Program and Metropolitan Mediation Services, Brookline. She is a case liaison for Small Claims Court in Quincy, Massachusetts and a trainer for the family and peer mediation programs at both Harvard and Metropolitan Mediation. Barbara also serves on Mediation Works Inc. Boston Municipal and District Court Mediation Panel. Barbara received her BS in Occupational Therapy from Tufts University, a Masters in Public Health from Boston University and a Graduate Certificate in Dispute Resolution from University of Massachusetts Boston. She has worked extensively with families impacted by disabilities and special needs in community health settings and public schools. Barbara has two grown children and enjoys bicycle riding and knitting. She co-chairs the No Place For Hate Committee of the Anti- Defamation League in Hingham MA, coordinating community based educational programs.<br /><br />Lisa and Barbara are both members of the Association for Conflict Resolution, New England chapter of the ACR, Massachusetts Council on Family Mediation and Massachusetts Collaborative Law Council. Integrating their experiences in healthcare and mediation, Lisa and Barbara bring a unique perspective to problem solving and help clients be proactive in their approach.<br /><br />Navigating Resolutions is based on the South Shore, however Lisa and Barbara often travel throughout the greater Boston area to meet clients in order to better serve their needs.<br /><br />To learn more please see their website at: <a href="http://www.navigatingresolutions.com">www.navigatingresolutions.com</a><br />or call them at 617-633-4716.Justin L. Kelseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02756842890135196855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015135080269911484.post-77890660887490499442010-02-25T23:44:00.001-05:002010-02-25T23:48:27.358-05:00Meet the Board - David L. Seaquist, Ph.D., Co-President<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.divorcenter.org/about/images/dseaquist.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 100px; height: 124px;" src="http://www.divorcenter.org/about/images/dseaquist.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a>David is a practicing psychologist providing counseling services to individuals/groups including computerized tests, couples counseling, biofeedback, stress management, performance enhancement and career counseling. He has administered clinical services as part of the Department of Mental Health in MA., was Director of Counseling & Study Services at Boston University and provided psychological testing consultation for Law Enforcement agencies in both Iowa and MA.<br /><br />Before coming to MA., David was Chief Psychologist and Associate Professor in the Counseling Center & College of Education at Drake University in Des Moines and also Staff Counselor at University of Minnesota. His professional affiliations include the American Psychological Association, Iowa Psychological Association, and MA. PsychologicalAssociation. Extremely adept with a computer, David's other interests include sailing, music and nature and golf.<br /><br />David is a past President of the Divorce Center,a former Vice President, past coordinator of the Parents Apart court-mandated course, was a member of the Professional Development committee, and a frequent speaker at the public education series.Justin L. Kelseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02756842890135196855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015135080269911484.post-12298318248853915912010-02-08T11:28:00.003-05:002010-02-08T11:33:15.491-05:00Networking/Professional Development Breakfast: Using Social Networking Technology<span style="font-weight:bold;">USING SOCIAL NETWORKING TECHNOLOGY TO BUILD YOUR PRACTICE AND COMMUNICATE WITH CLIENTS</span><br /><br />Linkedin, Twitter, Facebook and blogs are all tools that a divorce professional can use to build one’s practice and inform and communicate with clients. Learn how to effectively use these tools to better serve your clients and expand your audience.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Speaker</span><br />Justin Kelsey, Esq. - Attorney Kelsey is a partner in the law firm of Kelsey & Trask P.C. in Natick, where he concentrates his practice in domestic relations and bankruptcy law. He is the author of two law-related blogs: <a href="http://kelseytrask.blogspot.com">Scaling the Summit: A Family Law Blog</a>; and <a href="http://bankruptcyma.blogspot.com">Don’t Go Alone: A Bankruptcy Law Blog</a>. To learn more about Justin L. Kelsey visit his <a href="http://www.google.com/profiles/Justin.Lee.Kelsey">Google profile</a>.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Where: </span><br />Newton Marriott(Intersection Rte. 95/128, Mass Pike & Rte. 30) In the Restaurant<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">When:</span><br />Tuesday, February 23, 2010<br />7:30 – 8:00 AM Meet and talk with other professionals – Share ideas <br /> Make new contacts – Enjoy full buffet breakfast<br />8:00 – 9:30 AM Lecture and Discussion<br /><br /><a href="http://www.eventbrite.com/event/564455301">Register Online HERE!</a><br /><br />We hope to see you there!Justin L. Kelseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02756842890135196855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015135080269911484.post-67268041496378050702009-12-31T13:11:00.002-05:002009-12-31T13:13:04.272-05:00Are Facebook & Twitter causing Divorces?This news video from CNN suggests that Facebook, Twitter and other social networking sites are contributing to the number of divorces. What do you think? <br /><br /><object width="416" height="374" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" id="ep"><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /><param name="wmode" value="transparent" /><param name="movie" value="http://i.cdn.turner.com/cnn/.element/apps/cvp/3.0/swf/cnn_416x234_embed.swf?context=embed&videoId=living/2009/12/29/kosik.social.sites.divorce.ready.cnn" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#000000" /><embed src="http://i.cdn.turner.com/cnn/.element/apps/cvp/3.0/swf/cnn_416x234_embed.swf?context=embed&videoId=living/2009/12/29/kosik.social.sites.divorce.ready.cnn" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" bgcolor="#000000" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" width="416" wmode="transparent" height="374"></embed></object>Justin L. Kelseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02756842890135196855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015135080269911484.post-77768967914971374352009-12-03T15:10:00.002-05:002009-12-03T15:20:12.659-05:00December Professional Development and Networking Event<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; ">The Role of the Probate and Family Court Probation Officer</span></div><b><div style="text-align: center;">Information and Insights</div></b><br /><b>Speaker: Anne Cremonini, LICSW</b><br /><br /><div><br />Anne Cremonini has been an Assistant Chief Probation Officer in the Norfolk Probate and Family Court since 1979. Ms. Cremonini has been designated a clinical associate of the Simmons School of Social Work serving as the coordinator and clinical advisor to the GAL internship program within the Norfolk Probate Court since 1990.</div><div><br />Presently, Ms Cremonini is an elected member of the Executive Board of Directors for the Massachusetts Chapter, Association of Family and Conciliation Courts, (AFCC) and of the Massachusetts Guardian ad Litem Association (MAGAL).<br /></div><br /><b>Where:</b> Wellesley Public Library<br /><br /><b>When:</b> Date - Tuesday, December 8, 2009<br /><br /> Time: 5:30 - 6:00 PM - Meet and talk with other professionals<br />Share ideas, make new contacts, enjoy refreshments<br /><br />6:00 - 7:30 PM - Lecture and Discussion<br /><br /><b>Cost:</b> Registered members - $30 ($25 before Dec. 5)<br /> non-members - $35 ($30 before Oct. 5)<div><br /></div><div><b><a href="http://www.eventbrite.com/event/489154073">Click Here to Register</a></b></div>Justin L. Kelseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02756842890135196855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015135080269911484.post-25931427472902734592009-11-02T13:14:00.002-05:002009-11-02T13:15:12.139-05:00Divorce HumorAdam and Eve had an ideal marriage. He didn't have to hear about all the men she could have married, and she didn't have to hear about the way his mother cooked. - Submitted by Lois Misiewicz to Donna MarsellaJustin L. Kelseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02756842890135196855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015135080269911484.post-25810103671545302732009-10-26T21:57:00.004-04:002009-11-02T13:14:00.881-05:00Meet the Board - Barbie Jetter, Co-President<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.divorcenter.org/about/images/bjetter.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 192px; height: 202px;" src="http://www.divorcenter.org/about/images/bjetter.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><div>This is the second in our series of Meet the Board entries, in which, about once a week, we will be introducing you to another member of The Divorce Center's Board of Directors.</div><div><br /></div><div>Barbie has been Co-President since 2007, formerly was chairperson of the Public Education and Marketing committees focusing on promoting, growing and expanding The Divorce Center's programs and membership. Barbie is a Certified Mortgage & Divorce Planning Professional and Licensed Senior Mortgage Advisor and Certified Professional Coach at Loansnap in Canton, MA, specializing in loans for couples who are in the divorce process. </div><div><br /></div><div>Barbie is a Certified Divorce Mortgage Planning Professional (CDPP), Certified Professional Coach (CPC), holds an MS degree in Counseling from Boston University. An experienced counselor, she is able to listen to her clients and advise them on how to seek the best alternatives and solutions, while saving time and money. She has successfully completed the Management Development Program in Residential Lending from Northeastern University, and has completed the Introduction to Mediation Skills Training Program through the Boston Law Collaborative. She is also an Allied Member of the Massachusetts Collaborative Law Council. Recently, Jetter coordinated and ran the yearly fundraising events benefiting the South Shore Hospital and affiliated organizations. These events included the Walk for Hospice, and the annual golf tournament, benefiting patients within the South Shore Hospital system. </div><div><br /></div><div>A divorced single mom with one daughter, one dog and three cats, she loves golf, board, card and tile games, movies and working out. Barbie is a great listener and cares about helping people who are going through the divorce process.</div><div><br /></div><div><div>We hope you enjoyed meeting Barbie and tune in next week when we will introduce the other current co-president.</div><div><br /></div><div>If you are interested in skipping ahead you can meet the whole board on our website at <a href="http://www.divorcenter.org/about/board.php">http://www.divorcenter.org/about/board.php</a>.</div><div><br /></div></div>Justin L. Kelseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02756842890135196855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015135080269911484.post-14241478108175776142009-10-14T10:28:00.001-04:002009-10-14T10:30:10.423-04:00October is National Domestic Violence Awareness MonthPresident Obama on September 30, 2009 <a href="http://www.whitehouse.gov/the_press_office/Presidential-Proclamation-National-Domestic-Violence-Awareness-Month/">proclaimed</a> October, National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.<div><br /></div><div>As with any issue that endangers the health, safety or welfare of individuals, the first step towards ending that danger is to raise Awareness.</div><div><br /></div><div>It seems that we are bombarded everyday with walkathons, and fund raisers, and pharmaceutical commercials that want to raise our Cancer Awareness, our Heart Disease Awareness, even our Awareness of Erectile Dysfunction. It becomes easy to forget that there are dangers in this world, and even in our own backyard, that don't stem from viruses or diseases. There are dangers, such as Domestic Violence that aren't caused by hunger or a germ, but instead by poor choices and a failure of support.</div><div><br /></div><div>It's hard to know if there will ever be a cure for cancer, but we know the cure for Domestic Violence. A safe home and access to justice can provide victims of Domestic Violence with a voice to end their suffering.</div><div><br /></div><div>If you or someone you know suffers from Sexual or Domestic Violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE, or if you live in Massachusetts check out <a href="http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eopssubtopic&L=5&L0=Home&L1=Crime+Prevention+%26+Personal+Safety&L2=Personal+Safety&L3=Sexual+and+Domestic+Violence&L4=Sexual+%26+Domestic+Violence+Resources&sid=Eeops">these resources available on the Massachusetts State website</a>, and seek help.</div><div><div><div><br /></div><div>Thank you to <a href="http://www.dgvelaw.com/">Danielle G. Van Ess, Esq</a>. for reminding us that sometimes there are greater issues to blog about than just questions of court and law.</div><div><br /></div><div>Reprinted with permission from the <a href="http://kelseytrask.blogspot.com/">Kelsey & Trask, P.C. Blog.</a></div></div></div>Justin L. Kelseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02756842890135196855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015135080269911484.post-28004922251407683362009-10-13T16:19:00.004-04:002009-10-15T15:39:59.685-04:00Financial Planners Divorce SurveyIn 2008 the IDFA (Institute for Divorce Financial Analysts) performed a survey among its members, which was responded to by 289 CDFAs (Certified Divorce Financial Analysts).<div><br /></div><div>Some interesting results related to Divorcing clients included the following:</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Effects of the Recession:</b></div><div><br /></div><div>"When asked to assess the difference that current economic conditions have made to the number of new divorcing clients coming through their doors, 68% say that the recession has not affected the number of cases, and 17% say that the recession has increased the number of new cases they’re seeing."</div><div><br /></div><div>"Thirty-seven percent of respondents told us that the current housing market has forced them to come up with creative solutions to property-division problems when the matrimonial home fails to sell – or would sell for less than what clients still owe on the mortgage. The most common solutions include: </div><div><ul><li>Ex-spouses retain joint ownership until the market improves, agreeing to postpone final division of assets until after the house is sold </li><li>Renting the house to a third party until the house can sell for more than the debt </li><li>One ex-spouse stays in the house until the market improves </li><li>One ex-spouse stays in the house and pays rent to the other until the market improves </li><li>Structure two levels of spousal support: before and after the house sells </li><li>Former spouses live in separate areas of home until house sells/market improves </li><li>Create an analysis for a HELOC so the spouse who retains the marital home can buy out the other spouse now – and wait until the market improves to sell."</li></ul><div><br /></div></div><div><b>Mediation, Collaboration or Litigation:</b></div><div><br /></div><div>"When asked about their work in the three most common dispute-resolution methods, 66% of respondents say they work in Mediation, 66% work in Collaborative Divorce, and 62% work in Litigation."</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Costs and Fees:</b></div><div><br /></div><div>"Of those who work in Mediation, 88% of respondents says that their average fees for processing a divorce using this method are less than $5,000; in Collaborative Divorce, 83% of cases cost less than $5,000; and in Litigation, 69% cost less than $5,000."</div><div><br /></div><div>"When asked about legal fees, respondents said that 50% of their clients spend between $10,000 and $25,000 on divorce-related legal fees."</div><div><br /></div><div>These survey results are copyrighted and are used with permission from the Institute for Divorce Financial Analysts™. <a href="http://www.institutedfa.com/">www.InstituteDFA.com</a> Thank you to the IDFA for allowing us to reproduce these survey results.</div><div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>Justin L. Kelseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02756842890135196855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015135080269911484.post-56040721593501885452009-10-07T19:27:00.002-04:002009-10-07T19:34:49.192-04:00Meet the Board - Jeanne M. Seaquist, IT Administrator/Analyst<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.divorcenter.org/about/images/jseaquist.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 105px; height: 131px;" src="http://www.divorcenter.org/about/images/jseaquist.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a>This is the first in our series of <b>Meet the Board</b> entries, in which, about once a week, we will be introducing you to another member of The Divorce Center's Board of Directors.<div><br /></div><div>As a nod to all of the hard work Jeanne has done in keeping The Divorce Center active on the web, she deserves to be mentioned first on The Divorce Center's brand new blog.</div><div><br /></div>Jeanne has been on the Board since 1998 as webmistress for The Divorce Center. She has also served two years as Co-President of the Divorce Center, been a co-editor of the newsletter, Vice-President for two years, and chaired the Membership committee. <div><br /></div><div>Jeanne holds a degree in education and certificates in both Internet Design and Business from Bentley College. She manages several websites while maintaining her regular job as Business Intelligence Administrator in the Information Technology department of an engineering company. She also authors a news segment of the company Intranet.<br /><br />Jeanne is an avid fan of the Red Sox and Patriots as well as the Boston College football team, enjoys travel, golf, and most sporting events.</div><div><br /></div><div>We hope you enjoyed meeting Jeanne and tune in next week when we will introduce the current co-presidents.</div><div><br /></div><div>If you are interested in skipping ahead you can meet the whole board on our website at <a href="http://www.divorcenter.org/about/board.php">http://www.divorcenter.org/about/board.php</a>.</div><div><br /></div>Justin L. Kelseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02756842890135196855noreply@blogger.com0