Thomas P. Carnes, Attorney & Mediator

08/29/2026

Transferring property during divorce may be tax-free initially, but future sales can trigger significant capital gains liabilities. Understanding cost-basis rules and IRS exclusions helps protect your post-divorce financial stability.

Dividing assets fairly in a divorce means looking beyond their current values and asking whether they'll create tax liabilities — or tax breaks — in the future.

08/22/2026

Adoption laws can be complex and vary quite a bit from state to state. Different states have their own specific rules regarding background checks, financial stability, and personal history requirements for prospective parents. Being unprepared for the court-ordered investigation process can often lead to unexpected delays and complications.

Learn more about how adoption laws work: https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/adoption?

08/15/2026

Child support orders aren't set in stone, but they don't update automatically. Whether due to a job change, deployment, or disability, requesting a modification requires showing a substantial change in circumstances to the issuing court. Read our guide to learn more.

https://www.findlaw.com/family/child-support/child-support-modification.html

08/08/2026

Navigating tax rules after a divorce or legal separation requires carefully updating your filing status, adjusting tax withholdings, and managing complex asset or retirement transfers. Partnering with an experienced family law attorney ensures you avoid costly filing mistakes, remain compliant with IRS guidelines, and maximize eligible deductions or dependent credits. https://www.irs.gov/individuals/filing-taxes-after-divorce-or-separation

08/01/2026

Securing clear legal authority through custody, guardianship, or adoption is essential for grandparents raising grandchildren to ensure seamless access to healthcare, school enrollment, and financial assistance. Partnering with a family law attorney helps you select the best legal path for your family's needs while protecting your rights and financial stability.

As a grandparent raising grandchildren, there are many practical issues to consider—including legal, financial, and caregiving support.

07/25/2026

Did you know owing just $2,500 in child support can cost you your passport? The federal government is stepping up enforcement on a massive scale this month. If you are struggling with a child support order that no longer fits your financial reality, the worst thing you can do is ignore it. We can help you petition for a fair modification.

The U.S. State Department will begin revoking the passports of parents who owe a significant amount of unpaid child support.

07/18/2026

When protecting your children after domestic violence, providing organized evidence is a vital step in safeguarding your parental rights. Documenting your role as the primary caregiver and keeping a clear record of safety concerns can directly influence custody decisions. Focusing your evidence on your children's well-being helps ensure your legal protections are upheld in court.

https://www.domesticshelters.org/articles/legal/the-7-c-s-of-organizing-custody-evidence-after-domestic-violence

07/11/2026

Establishing a practical parenting plan during a divorce ensures clear financial lines, legal custody, and stable routines for your children and pets. Working with a family law practitioner or mediator can help you negotiate a binding care strategy that avoids a costly, emotionally draining courtroom battle.

From kids and custody to what to do with pets, parenting through divorce can be a major challenge. Here are tips for protecting your family during divorce.

07/04/2026

Getting married later in life can simplify hospital visitation and healthcare decisions, as spouses typically have automatic rights under the law. However, a new marriage can also accidentally overwrite your current estate plans and affect your eligibility for long-term care programs like Medicaid. Understanding how your legal rights and responsibilities change after marriage helps ensure your intentions are honored.

https://mylifesite.net/blog/post/what-seniors-must-consider-before-walking-down-the-aisle

06/29/2026

Completed my successful summary judgment in my big fiduciary duty case today. Through two motions, ending up getting summary judgment on every one of the dozen claims. Thank God for great judges and patient and grateful clients.