Where do you go to find information about divorce?
Where do we go when we’re worried about something but don’t know much about it? The internet. And divorce is no exception. I’m Katherine Miller, and I’ve been a divorce attorney in New York City and New York State for over 30 years. However, relying solely on the internet for divorce information can be a real problem. “Professor Internet” often isn’t as smart or knowledgeable as we think, especially when it comes to complex legal matters like divorce. Here’s why.
It can be extremely confusing and misleading when you read online about how the Child Support Standards Act calculations and formulas apply to your situation. What you see on the internet might not align with how the law actually applies to your case. The case law—the real-life interpretations of the law—can differ significantly from what the statute says and what you read online. For instance, if you have 50/50 custody, where your children spend equal time with you and your spouse (or ex-spouse), the way this is handled can vary from county to county. Without speaking to a lawyer, you may have no clue what might actually happen in court.
The same holds true for maintenance, which is what we call alimony. There’s a whole range of other areas where relying on internet advice could mislead you.
Now, don’t get me wrong—I’m the first person to look things up online. Whether it’s an ache or pain or something else, I’m sure my doctor also thinks it’s a terrible idea to rely on the internet. The internet is a great place to start your research, but it shouldn’t be where you finish.
Before making decisions that will impact you, your children, and your family for the rest of your life, consult a lawyer. Don’t hesitate to reach out on our email address info@miller-law.com or call us at (914) 685-9805.
Thanks for listening.