For Better or For Court: Family Law in New Jersey

Episode Summary: In this episode of For Better or For Court: Family Law in New Jersey, host Evan Mack sits down with Ms. Alix Claps, a certified matrimonial law attorney at Heymann and Fletcher, to discuss the intricacies of appealing family court decisions in New Jersey. They delve into what constitutes an appealable order, the difference between final and interlocutory orders, and the critical importance of the trial record in pr...

Episode Summary: In this episode of For Better or For Court: Family Law in New Jersey, host Evan Mack welcomes Alix Claps, a certified matrimonial law attorney and partner at Heymann and Fletcher. They delve into the intricacies of dealing with the Division of Child Protection and Permanency (DCPP) in New Jersey. Claps explains what triggers DCPP involvement, the investigation process, and the rights parents have during such invest...

Episode Summary: In this episode of For Better or For Court: Family Law in New Jersey, host Evan Mack is joined by Alix Claps, a certified matrimonial law attorney and partner at Heymann and Fletcher. The discussion centers around the complexities of business ownership during a New Jersey divorce. Alix provides insights into whether a business is considered marital property and how courts determine equitable distribution. The episo...

Episode Summary: In this episode of For Better or For Court: Family Law in New Jersey, host Evan Mack is joined by Alix Claps, a certified matrimonial law attorney, to discuss the enforcement of divorce judgments and court orders in New Jersey. Alix outlines the steps to take when a former spouse fails to comply with a divorce judgment, emphasizing the importance of direct communication as a first step. She explains the process of ...

Episode Summary: In this episode of For Better or For Court: Family Law in New Jersey, host Evan Mack sits down with Alix Claps, a certified matrimonial law attorney and partner at Heymann and Fletcher, to delve into the complexities of dividing retirement accounts in New Jersey divorces. Alix explains the intricacies of what constitutes marital property regarding retirement funds and how contributions during the marriage are treat...

Episode Summary:

Ms. Alix Claps, a certified matrimonial law attorney, delves into the nuances of college contribution for divorced parents in New Jersey. From legal requirements to court evaluations and financial considerations, this episode offers valuable insights for navigating college expenses post-divorce.

Key Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction to college contribution in New Jersey divorces

00:33 – Are divorced pare...

Episode Summary:  Dive into the complexities of relocation cases in New Jersey family law with Ms. Alix Claps, a certified matrimonial law attorney. Learn about the legal implications, key considerations, and best practices to address relocation disputes effectively.

Key Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to relocation cases in New Jersey family law 00:35 – Can a parent move out of state with a child without permissi...

Episode Summary:

In this episode, the guest, a certified matrimony attorney, discusses the changes in New Jersey alimony laws since 2014. From the shift to Open Durational Alimony to factors influencing alimony duration, listeners gain valuable insights into navigating alimony post-divorce.

Key Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction

01:30 – Replacing Permanent Alimony with Open Durational Alimony

03:45 – Guidelines for ...

Episode Summary: In this episode of *For Better or For Court: Family Law in New Jersey*, Alix Claps, a certified matrimonial law attorney, delves into the critical aspects of selecting the right family law attorney in New Jersey. From the significance of attorney certifications to the importance of local court familiarity, Alix provides valuable insights for anyone facing family legal matters.

Key Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduc...

Episode Summary: In this episode of *For Better or For Court: Family Law in New Jersey*, Alix Claps dives into the topic of how New Jersey courts consider children's preferences in custody decisions. From the age where a child's opinion starts to hold weight to the role of mental health professionals in assessing these preferences, Alix provides valuable insights for parents navigating custody and co-parenting challenges.

Key Times...

Episode Summary:

After the final judgment of divorce, the work is far from over. Clients need to take proactive steps to safeguard their financial stability and ensure a smooth transition. Alix breaks down crucial post-divorce tasks, from updating accounts and beneficiaries to implementing child support and parenting time schedules. She emphasizes the importance of continuous communication with ex-spouses and the significance of do...

Episode Summary: In this episode, Alix Claps, a certified matrimonial law attorney, delves into the intricate details of domestic violence laws in New Jersey. From defining domestic violence to explaining the process of obtaining protection orders, Alix sheds light on crucial aspects that can help keep families safe and informed.

Key Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 01:30 – Defining domestic violence in New Jersey 04:15...

Episode Summary:

In this episode, Alix Claps, a certified matrimonial law attorney, provides insights into pre-nuptial and post-nuptial agreements. She explains the differences between the two, debunks common myths, and highlights the benefits for couples, especially mid-career professionals. Listen in to learn how these agreements can strengthen relationships and provide clarity for financial matters.

Key Timestamps:

00:00 –...

Episode Summary:

In this practical episode, Alix Claps debunks myths about “default” parenting plans and shares strategies for creating flexible, child-focused schedules. The discussion covers common conflict triggers, age-appropriate adjustments, and tools to maintain cooperation without constant court visits.

Key Timestamps:

00:01 - Show Introduction

00:30 - Guest Introduction

00:50 - No Default Parenting Plan Exists

...

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In this eye-opening episode, Alix Claps reveals the financial surprises that catch many New Jersey divorcing couples off guard. The discussion covers expert fees, dual-household expenses, insurance shifts, and proactive steps to minimize costs and protect assets.

Key Timestamps:

00:01 - Show Introduction

00:30 - Guest Introduction

00:50 - Common Financial Surprises

01:45 - Why Costs Are Underestimated

03:00 - Expen...

Episode Summary:

In this practical episode, Alix Claps explores the realities of post-divorce life in New Jersey. The discussion covers common overlooked tasks, enforcement options when ex-spouses fail to comply, and proactive steps to prevent future disputes after the final judgment.

Key Timestamps:

00:01 - Show Introduction

00:30 - Guest Introduction

00:50 - Do Issues Arise After Final Judgment?

01:30 - First-Year Post-Divorce C...

Episode Summary:

In this essential episode, Alix Claps clarifies when and how New Jersey courts allow changes to custody, parenting time, child support, and alimony. The discussion covers qualifying life changes, required evidence, and strategies to avoid costly mistakes when seeking modifications.

Key Timestamps:

00:01 - Show Introduction

00:30 - Guest Introduction

00:50 - Are Orders Permanent or Modifiable?

01:45 - Life Changes I...

Episode Summary: In this episode of For Better or For Court: Family Law in New Jersey, attorney Alix Claps, a certified matrimonial law attorney and partner at Heymann & Fletcher, breaks down one of the most emotional and complex parts of divorce — deciding what happens to the marital home. She explains how courts evaluate ownership, equity, and financial feasibility, and why factors like children, mortgages, and timing a...

Episode Summary: In this episode of For Better or For Court: Family Law in New Jersey, Alix Claps, a certified matrimonial law attorney and partner at Heymann & Fletcher, discusses a topic rarely written in legal documents but present in nearly every divorce — the emotional gap between spouses. Alix explains what happens when one partner is emotionally ready to move forward while the other is still processing the end of t...