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Elizabeth Stephenson and Sarah J. Hink of New Direction Family Law introduce new attorney Tyler E. Kaestner, who recently moved from Pennsylvania to Raleigh, and discuss key differences between Pennsylvania and North Carolina family law and procedure. They compare divorce timelines and separation requirements (including Pennsylvania’s ability to be “separated” while living in the same home), custody processes using conciliation officers and Zoom conferences, and child support rules such as Pennsylvania’s lack of retroactive child support and use of net income. They also cover easier modification standards in Pennsylvania, shorter alimony durations there versus longer potential awards in North Carolina, North Carolina’s alienation of affection/criminal conversation claims and proposed legislative changes, and major differences in discovery and subpoena procedures. They warn against relying on Google/AI or friends for legal advice, noting AI outputs may be wrong and what you enter into AI may be discoverable. 00:00 Child Support Shock 00:44 Meet the Attorneys 00:58 Tyler Joins the Firm 02:21 Divorce Filing Rules 03:06 What Counts as Separation 04:50 NC Law May Change 06:38 Custody Process Differences 08:50 Out of State Orders 09:53 Child Support Pitfalls 12:46 Guidelines Net vs Gross 13:40 Modifying Orders Loopholes 14:31 Custody Mods Without Change 15:42 Mediation Differences 16:34 Conference Officer Path 17:14 Alimony Rules Compared 18:22 Alienation Claims Drama 20:22 Affairs and Alimony Bars 21:49 Subpoenas and Discovery Shock 23:56 AI and Legal Pitfalls 25:41 Pro Se TikTok Warnings 26:52 Wrap Up and Thanks

Attorneys Elizabeth Stephenson, Sarah J. Hink, and Tyler E. Kaestner of New Direction Family Law talk with mental health professional Fauzia Faizi Shah about complex PTSD and narcissistic personality disorder and how these dynamics commonly surface in separation, divorce, and custody cases. Shah describes narcissistic traits and tactics such as gaslighting (changing someone’s reality), love-bombing and trauma bonding, boundary violations, manipulation, isolation, strength-shaming, and the repeating abuse cycle, and explains how victims may appear depressed or use substances as coping while the narcissistic partner thrives. The conversation focuses on protecting children, who may become “performers” for narcissistic parents, and on educating judges through seasoned evaluations and parenting capacity assessments, recommending supervised visitation when appropriate, therapy for children and the targeted parent, and legal boundaries like structured communication and parenting coordinators. Shah shares that her forthcoming book and online resources address complex PTSD, neurobiology, attachment, and healing. 00:00 Kids as Performers 00:47 Podcast Introductions 01:29 Book on Complex PTSD 02:26 Spotting Narcissism 03:49 Gaslighting Explained 04:31 Trauma Bond Cycle 06:16 Abuse and Control 07:29 Leaving and Safety 07:54 Evaluations and Court 14:15 Co Parenting Challenges 16:07 Protecting the Children 18:01 Courtroom Facades 21:41 Custody Battle Tactics 22:53 Coping Not Crazy 23:32 DV Mental Health Toll 24:04 Why It Feels Normal 24:56 Neurobiology And Attachment 26:32 Lawyer Strategy And Therapy 27:35 Breaking Trauma Bonds 29:45 Are Narcissists Increasing 30:35 Resources And New Book 31:37 Complex PTSD Explained 32:47 Boundaries And Legal Shields 34:33 Final Warnings Love Bombing

Elizabeth Stevenson and Sarah J. Hink of New Direction Family Law, joined by associate attorney Tyler E. Kaestner, interview Veronica Kemeny, a licensed clinical social worker and co-owner of Anchor Perinatal Wellness in Raleigh, during Maternal Mental Health Awareness Month. They discuss perinatal mental health as an inclusive term covering trying to conceive, pregnancy, postpartum (up to two years), and non-birthing partners, and review conditions including depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and psychosis. Kemeny explains warning signs such as impaired functioning and inability to sleep when given the chance, normalizes intrusive thoughts, and emphasizes the importance of trained providers due to stigma and misinterpretation. The conversation covers risk factors, medication concerns, impacts on relationships and divorce/custody cases, and resources like Postpartum Support International, nurse visiting programs, UNC’s perinatal inpatient unit, and Anchor’s intensive program, teletherapy, childcare, and free walk-in maternal mental health clinic at anchorperinatal.com. 00:00 UNC Perinatal Units 00:43 Meet the Guests 01:40 Veronica and Anchor Program 03:16 What Perinatal Mental Health Means 04:36 When Symptoms Become Serious 05:51 Red Flags Sleep and Safety 07:20 Intrusive Thoughts and Stigma 10:56 Screening and Provider Gaps 12:23 Risk Factors and Prevention 15:29 Resources Programs and Medication 17:36 Social Media Comparison Trap 17:52 Finding Realistic Support 18:54 Marriage Strain After Baby 19:22 Teamwork and Self Care Plan 22:17 Sleep Boundaries and Visitors 24:28 When to Seek Treatment 25:44 Divorce and Custody Bias 29:07 Free Nurse Visiting Programs 30:25 How to Get Help 31:42 Final Takeaways

Attorneys Sarah Hink and Elizabeth Stevenson return from a hiatus on the Exit Strategy podcast to discuss why custody is often the hardest part of divorce and separation, including the emotional challenge of sharing time with children. They explain that in the North Carolina counties where they practice, courts often start from a 50/50 assumption tied to the child’s best interests and a relationship with both parents, then look for reasons to deviate such as domestic violence, substance abuse, mental health concerns, lack of involvement, or inconsistency. They cover tools like temporary arrangements, tiered custody schedules with treatment requirements, reunification therapy, custody/parent fitness evaluations, guardians ad litem, parent coordinators, and parallel parenting. They warn against false abuse claims, alienation, and putting children in the middle, noting records can follow families and even be found online later. 00:00 Welcome Back Intro 00:20 Why Custody Gets Heated 00:43 Facing 50 50 Reality 01:57 Courts Start at 50 50 02:40 Give Them a Chance 03:32 Custody Can Change 04:00 Tiered Plans and Reunification 05:35 Evaluations and Expert Help 06:55 Parallel Parenting Tools 07:31 Kids Feel the Conflict 08:57 Legal Custody Decision Making 09:42 Third Parties Can Sue 10:11 Domestic Violence Impact 11:10 False Claims Backfire 11:56 Online Records and Kids Testifying 13:23 Parental Alienation Consequences 14:08 Honesty and Realistic Outcomes 16:08 Wrap Up and Final Thoughts

Family law attorneys Sarah Hink and Elizabeth Stevenson of New Direction Family Law discuss North Carolina equitable distribution in divorce, emphasizing that most marital property and debt acquired from the date of marriage to the date of separation is typically divided 50/50, regardless of whose name it’s in, with values generally set as of separation. They explain separate property carve-outs (inheritances kept separate, premarital retirement/house interests) and when debts may be treated as separate (not benefiting the marriage). They warn against trying to manipulate accounts or incurring debt right before separation, and note most cases settle in required mediation if parties avoid “nickel-and-diming” personal property. They also highlight practical issues with houses, refinancing, credit risk, and the need to address property claims before an absolute divorce, which can waive equitable distribution rights. 00:00 Mediation Pitfalls 00:35 Meet the Attorneys 00:57 Equitable Distribution Basics 02:01 Marital Property Freeze Frame 02:33 Unequal Splits and Misconduct 03:44 Separate Property Exceptions 05:02 Messy Assets and Businesses 05:44 DIY Agreements and Prenups 06:41 Pets and Personal Property 07:17 Mediation and Nickel Dime Fights 09:39 Home Values and Letting Go 11:32 Debt Division and Credit Risks 14:06 Bankruptcy and Final Warnings

Family law attorneys Elizabeth Stevenson and Sarah Hink of New Direction Family Law discuss common mistakes people make during separation and divorce, emphasizing that emotions can lead to regrettable decisions. They warn that social media posts, texts, DMs, and even posts by friends or family can be used in court, and note North Carolina is a one-party consent state where conversations may be legally recorded if the recorder is a participant. They advise clients to follow attorney guidance, timely provide required financial and other documents, and avoid hiding information. They caution against relying on “Google law degrees” or AI-generated content, which can be inaccurate and costly to review. They also stress avoiding reckless behavior (partying, DUIs), maintaining credibility with the judge, and being honest about finances and other issues. 00:00 One Party Consent Warning 00:35 Meet The Divorce Attorneys 01:12 Social Media Can Sink You 02:10 Texts DMs And Friends 04:02 Recording Rules Explained 04:41 Follow Legal Advice And Disclose 05:39 Bad Advice And AI Pitfalls 07:17 Reckless Behavior And Custody 09:11 Honesty And Credibility In Court 11:24 Money Mistakes And Hidden Assets 12:16 Wrap Up Key Takeaways 13:06 Final Sign Off

High-Profile Celebrity Breakups & Legal Drama are making headlines. From romantic entanglements like Travis Kelsey and Taylor Swift to legal battles such as the Coldplay Kiss Cam scandal and the divorce of Jeff Bezos, this episode grants an insider look into the legal ramifications of celebrity relationships. Get expert insights on prenups, custody battles, and much more. Also, tune in for a healthy dose of  humor involving pet monkeys. Don't miss out on this informative and entertaining episode. 00:00 Introduction and Team Setup00:43 Family Law in the Headlines: The Coldplay Kiss Cam Incident05:14 Celebrity Relationships: Travis Kelsey and Taylor Swift08:54 Courtney Thorne-Smith's Divorce11:50 Ryan Lochte's Custody Battle16:13 Jamie King and Kyle Newman's Unusual Custody Case17:01 Custody and Legal Decisions17:38 Supervised Visits and Drug Problems17:50 Understanding Shared Legal Custody18:50 Nightmares of Custody Orders19:40 Third-Party Decision Makers20:16 Celebrity Relationships and Prenups25:36 Kanye West's Controversial Actions27:41 Real Housewives Drama31:04 Cardi B and Offset's Public Disputes33:28 Jeff Bezos' Massive Alimony35:09 Concluding Thoughts and Monkeys ------ To contact us visit https://newdirectionfamilylaw.com/contact-us-today/

New Direction Family Law layers and staff discuss the complexities around parentage. They cover the process of establishing and disestablishing parentage, the legal implications, and the need for paternity actions. The team also explores issues related to legitimation actions, the legal challenges of changing a child's surname, and the complications that arise within same-sex parent families. Tune in for an informative discussion about the legal intricacies of parentage and the importance of having an attorney navigate these complicated matters. 00:00 Introduction and Team Introduction00:36 Understanding Parentage: Establishing and Disestablishing01:10 Affidavit of Parentage: Hospital Procedures01:52 Paternity Tests and Legal Actions02:43 Legitimation Actions: Replacing the Wrong Dad03:36 Legal Implications of Birth Certificates05:30 Disestablishment of Paternity: Legal Steps07:41 Changing the Child's Surname10:52 Complexities in Same-Sex Parentage12:26 Conclusion and Final Thoughts ------ To contact us visit https://newdirectionfamilylaw.com/contact-us-today/

We unpack the complex and often controversial legal topics of Alienation of Affection and Criminal Conversation. They discuss the nuances, historical context, and practical implications of these laws, which are still recognized in a few states, including North Carolina. The conversation includes real-life cases, the pros and cons of pursuing such lawsuits, and the potential impacts on all parties involved. 00:00 Introduction and Team Introduction01:01 Introducing the Topic: Alienation and Criminal Conversation01:33 Matt's Experience with Alienation Cases02:16 Legal Nuances and Publicity of Cases04:43 Breaking Down Alienation and Criminal Conversation05:50 Defenses and Legal Strategies07:20 Damages and Case Examples08:49 Challenges and Considerations in Pursuing Cases12:53 Mother-in-Law Drama13:34 Alienation of Affection Law13:54 Constitutional Concerns15:41 Jurisdiction Issues18:18 Office Affairs21:12 Connivance and Framing ------ To contact us visit https://newdirectionfamilylaw.com/contact-us-today/

Join lizabeth A. Stephenson and Sarah J. Hink from New Direction Family Law as they delve into crucial insights for clients preparing to testify in family court. Alongside Cam, their coordinator, they discuss the intricacies of courtroom procedures, the importance of honest and concise testimony, and how to handle cross-examinations and character witnesses. From what to wear to how to manage your emotions, gain valuable advice on presenting yourself effectively in court. Whether it's a custody case, financial disputes, or spousal support, this episode covers everything you need to know to navigate your court appearance with confidence. 00:00 Introduction to New Direction Family Law00:57 Preparing Clients for Testimony01:46 Courtroom Basics and Client Preparation03:36 Direct and Cross-Examination Tips06:46 Character and Expert Witnesses09:54 Handling Emotions and Courtroom Etiquette11:08 The Importance of Genuine Emotions in Court11:23 Challenges Judges Face in Determining Credibility11:51 Handling Lies and Perjury in Court13:56 Using Text Messages and Emails as Evidence15:52 The Dangers of Faking Evidence17:16 Respecting Court Protocol and Behavior17:46 Financial Testimonies and Document Familiarity18:51 The Waiting Game for Court Rulings19:49 Preparing for Cross-Examination21:43 Character Witness Preparation

Our hosts discuss the complexities of handling custody issues when co-parents live in different states. They delve into the legalities, jurisdiction matters, and real-life scenarios including military families and interstate relocations. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding state laws, getting court permissions, and the potential emotional and financial impacts on the children and parents involved. They also provide practical advice on dealing with such situations, emphasizing the significance of consulting with an attorney before making any moves. 00:00 Introduction and Greetings00:41 Custody Issues Across State Lines00:57 Jurisdiction and Legal Complexities01:02 Case Study: California to North Carolina02:01 Challenges of Interstate Custody03:12 Real-Life Examples and Scenarios05:06 Impact on Children and Families06:27 Personal Experiences and Insights09:22 Judicial Decisions and Fairness09:50 Financial Implications of Custody Arrangements10:41 Navigating Child Support and Extraordinary Expenses11:04 Relocation and Its Legal Implications12:50 Getting Permission to Move: Legal Steps13:35 Factors Judges Consider in Relocation Cases15:44 Emergency Custody and Relocation Challenges17:30 Co-Parenting and Relocation: Practical Advice19:57 Consulting Attorneys Before Relocating20:38 Final Thoughts on Relocation and Custody

In this insightful discussion, we talk about the growing phenomenon of 'default parent' divorces among millennial marriages. The episode explores the dynamics of household responsibilities, the emotional toll of being the default parent, and how this imbalance often leads to marital discord and eventually divorce. The hosts share personal anecdotes, client experiences, and offer practical advice on managing these challenges through better communication, therapy, and allowing mistakes to foster growth in co-parenting. 00:00 Introduction and Team Introduction00:44 The Default Parent Epidemic01:46 Impact on Relationships and Divorce03:11 Gender Roles and Societal Expectations04:40 Challenges in Co-Parenting Post-Divorce12:39 Historical Context and Modern Dynamics14:41 Advice and Solutions for Default Parents17:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this insightful discussion, Cameron, the Marketing and Business Development Manager at New Direction Family Law, and Elizabeth Stevenson, a partner at the firm, dive deep into the intricate intersection of estate planning and family law with Hampton Crumpler, an attorney at NC Planning. They explore the complexities of generational wealth, trusts, wills, and how these elements play crucial roles in divorce, custody battles, and property division. Key topics include the impact of prenuptial and postnuptial agreements, protecting assets for children from previous marriages, the importance of regularly updating estate plans, and understanding the differences between revocable and irrevocable trusts. Tune in to gain valuable insights into how smart estate planning can save time, money, and stress for your family. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:57 Intersection of Estate Planning and Family Law 01:34 Prenups, Postnups, and Estate Planning 07:15 Trusts for Minor Children 10:15 Revocable vs. Irrevocable Trusts 12:26 Blended Families and Q-Tip Trusts 15:12 Importance of Having a Will 18:32 Inherited Property and Marital Assets 21:06 Tax Consequences of Inherited Money 21:30 Trusts and Taxation 22:22 Real Estate and Inheritance 23:47 Estate Planning and Separation Agreements 25:44 Gifts and Marital Property 27:09 Handling Property in Divorce 28:58 Importance of Estate Planning 31:53 Updating Estate Plans 33:02 Legal Representation in Divorce 34:49 Getting in Touch with an Estate Planning Attorney 37:17 Final Thoughts on Estate Planning

In this episode, Elizabeth Stevenson and Ashley Oldham of New Direction Family Law discuss the crucial process of selecting the right divorce attorney. They cover essential steps such as the importance of initial consultations, building a trust-based relationship, understanding retainer fees, and ensuring transparent communication. They also emphasize the value of honesty and document organization in achieving the best legal outcomes. This episode provides valuable insights for anyone navigating the complexities of divorce. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:31 Choosing the Right Attorney 01:30 Initial Consultation Importance 01:51 Client Intake Process 04:33 Confidentiality and Trust 09:40 Financial Considerations 11:16 Document Organization 15:37 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Join Elizabeth Stevenson from New Direction Family Law and her colleague Ashley Oldham as they discuss the unique challenges of military divorces. In this episode, they delve into the nuances of divorce for military families, covering topics such as pension division, custody arrangements, and the Uniform Deployed Parents Custody and Visitation Act. Ashley, a board-certified family law specialist with extensive experience in military divorces, provides valuable insights on jurisdiction, survivor benefits, and child support. Whether you're a service member or a spouse, this episode is packed with essential information to help navigate the complexities of military divorces. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:38 Military Divorce Overview 02:33 Jurisdiction in Military Divorces 03:54 Custody Issues in Military Divorces 09:49 Division of Military Pensions 15:55 Domestic Violence and Military Personnel 17:25 Military Support Programs and Conclusion