Some of the most complex cases we handle at our firm, Wisselman Harounian & Associates, involve “premeditated divorce planning.” These are cases where one spouse undermines his or her unsuspecting partner by hiding away assets for months and even years before the proceedings start.  Usually, this individual has more control over the income and assets of the family and is the main financial decision maker, whereas, the unsuspecting spouse is “in the dark” about the party’s financial circumstances.

One of the most important ways we can leave a legacy for our loved ones is by drafting the appropriate testamentary documents. An individual can designate who should receive his or her assets when he/she dies by signing a Last Will and Testament and making specific “bequests,” or gifts, therein. When an individual dies, the will must be admitted to the court for approval before the assets can be distributed.  This process is called “probate.”  The Court “proves” the will and ensures that everything was done properly. 

The Jewish religion has commonly accepted divorce as a fact of life, even if it is a very unfortunate one. The Jewish community generally maintains that Shalom Bayit, domestic peace and harmony, is the most desirable state, and it’s better for a couple to divorce than to remain together in a state of bitterness and strife.