AP and CNNnotes the Chicago judgment awarding one of the biggest divorce verdicts in U.S. history. Maya Polsky was awarded $184 million in her divorce from Michael Polsky. The AP writes (excerpt): “They would walk together after dinners, and Michael…
Choosing classy over amateurish
The New York Times reminds us of our ability to conduct classy cross examinations and of the value flowing from preparation. The article highlights the “outmoded, amateurish and unreliable” interrogation techniques used by the Bush administration’s intelligence agencies. Scott Shane…
Responding to stress
USA Today reveals how to reduce the harmful effects of worrying, including: Writing out your feelings about stressful experiences. Spending time with friends who prefer problem solving over hand-wringing. Meditating or praying. Working on forgiveness. Lowering unrealistic expectations.
Learning from the contentious divorce of former Governor James E. McGreevey
The AP/New York Times peeks into the divorce proceedings involving the former Governor of New Jersey. The short piece illustrates common themes, including: –judges want parents to use “common sense” –judges want parents to facilitate age-appropriate activities –judges want parents…
A life of honor
The Grand Rapids Pressnotes the passing of former State Bar president, gentleman-litigator and family man Stephen Bransdorfer, at age 77 after a lengthy battle with cancer. Barton Deiters writes (excerpt): His skill and willingness to serve was recognized by governors,…
Be happy, connect to something bigger
CNN/Parenting.com highlight 8 ways to focus on the positive and become a happier mom. Robert Barnett writes (excerpt): “Happiness is more than just that smiley feeling,” says Karen Reivich, Ph.D., a research associate in the Positive Psychology Center at the…
From state identification card to expunging records
Michigan Reentry Law Wiki was launched to help transition people from prison to the community. The website is supported by Legal Aid of Western Michigan and the Michigan Poverty Law Project.
A True Professional
The Grand Rapids Press notes the passing of retired U.S. District Judge Douglas Hillman, a favorite among attorneys practicing in federal court: Judge Hillman, 84, who had a passion for training young lawyers, suffered a stroke in 2000 that slowed…
Bloodline? Or experiencing the joys of being a father?
CNN and AP reveal what may be a new frontier for grandparent rights. After a four-year battle, an Israeli court in Tel Aviv has granted the wish of the family of a dead soldier. They had a hospital take and…
Document preparation services: buyer beware
The State Bar of Michigan obtained a permanent injunction in Grand Rapids (Kent County) against the “We the People USA, Inc.,” and its franchises in the state from engaging in the unauthorized practice of law. Apparently, “We the People of…
Not the normal thing
USA Today reveals the loneliness of being the only woman on the US Supreme Court. Joan Biskupic writes (excerpt): For now, O’Connor’s absence is more symbolic. In court, the sight of Ginsburg — a slight figure in a tall, black…
Avoiding the Top 10
The ABA includes a pdf paper from the last Tech Show on how to avoid the top ten causes of malpractice. The presenters were Mark C.S. Bassingthwaighte, Risk Management Coordinator, Attorneys Liability Protection Society, and Reba J. Nance, Director, Law…
Accidental bigamists
The LA Times reveals problems with Do-It-Yourself divorces: you might still be married! Jessica Garrison writes (excerpt): Many of them are not quite as divorced as they think they are. Some of them, like Chan, are even accidental bigamists, carrying…
Bratz, not slutz
The New York Times shows us the “Three Ages of Woman: first Mary-Kate, then Britney, then Courtney.” Lawrence Downes writes (excerpt): What surprised me, though, was how completely parents of even younger girls seem to have gotten in step with…
Trumping Paternity Act
The Michigan Court of Appeals is publishing Sinicropi v. Mazurek (Case No. No. 268000, December 7, 2006). The court held that an acknowledgement of paternity precludes entry of an order of filiation. Judge Murphy writes (excerpt): We hold that an…
Accentuate the positive
The New York Times highlights an opportunity to improve your relationship: embrace the positive events in your partner’s life. Benedict Carey writes (excerpt): But the way that partners respond to each other’s triumphs may be even more important for the…
Beyond GALs, parenting coordinators . . . Super-Nannies
The BBC reveals Tony Blair’s plan to bring in “Super-nannies” to try to improve parenting in high anti-social areas of England. The BBC notes (excerpt): [Child psychologists] will advise new parents – of children of all ages – and intervene…
CASA Jurist of the Year
Judge Patricia D. Gardner received the Michigan CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) Jurist of the Year award, recognizing her for exemplifying the best attributes of a Family Court Judge. The press release quoted one CASA staff member as stating, “Judge…
How can we save marriage?
The NEw York Times includes an op-ed on the emotional connections and personal fulfilment. Stephanie Coontz writes (excerpt): Instead, we should raise our expectations for, and commitment to, other relationships, especially since so many people now live so much of…
Tax-free income
The Michigan Court of Appeals published Peterson v Peterson (October 24, 2006, Case No. 260591), holding that for child support purposes, depreciation is income without an offsetting tax adjustment. Judge Murphy writes (excerpt): Plaintiff appeals by leave granted the trial…