Sharon L. Michaels, Attorney

10/16/2026

Protecting your financial independence during a divorce means properly identifying separate versus community assets and closing joint credit lines. Learn how to navigate asset division effectively. https://www.britannica.com/money/dividing-assets-in-divorce

10/15/2026

The SECURE 2.0 Act pushed the RMD starting age to 73 and eliminated required distributions for Roth 401(k) accounts. Understanding updated federal tax rules helps retirees optimize withdrawals and avoid costly penalties.

The SECURE 2.0 Act made major changes to rules for required minimum distributions (RMDs) — are you up to speed?

10/14/2026

Uncoupling involves more than just emotional decisions—it requires key financial preparation. From organizing joint accounts to documenting shared assets, taking early steps can protect your interests. Read our guide to preparing for divorce.

The process of divorce includes untangling your finances. Here are 7 key steps to prepare your finances for divorce and avoid costly mistakes.

10/13/2026

A legal power of attorney allows a trusted agent to manage financial or medical decisions if you become incapacitated. Establishing durable powers of attorney early protects your assets and relieves family burden.

https://www.consumerfinance.gov/ask-cfpb/what-is-a-power-of-attorney-poa-en-1149/?

A power of attorney is a legal document that allows someone else to act on your behalf.

10/09/2026

Navigating child custody during a divorce can feel overwhelming. Do you know the difference between legal and physical custody, or how courts evaluate the best interest of the child? Understanding these core concepts helps protect your family's future.

https://www.metlife.com/stories/legal/child-custody/?

Learn about child custody laws, types of custody arrangements, and the factors that affect custody decisions. Get expert legal insights with MetLife.

10/08/2026

Did you know delaying your first Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) could force you to take two taxable withdrawals in the same year? Understand the 2026 updates to RMD rules and how they affect your retirement accounts and beneficiaries. Read more.

Understanding distribution rules can help retirees and IRA heirs avoid costly penalties and take advantage of new limits.

10/07/2026

Navigating spousal support during a divorce? Do you know how courts determine alimony eligibility or how federal tax laws impact your agreement? Understanding the rules behind spousal maintenance is essential when negotiating a fair outcome.

https://www.investopedia.com/terms/a/alimony-payment.asp

10/06/2026

Without an updated estate plan, court proceedings like probate can result in unnecessary delays, public record disclosures, and higher administrative costs. Taking action now helps secure your family's financial future.

https://www.fidelity.com/viewpoints/personal-finance/do-you-need-an-estate-plan?

Do you need an estate plan? Among the key issues to consider are children, the size of your estate, and privacy. Fidelity Viewpoints Key takeaways Anyone can benefit from having a basic estate plan including a will, financial durable power of attorney, and health care proxy. You may or may not need....

10/02/2026

Thinking about filing for divorce but not sure where to start? From deciding between contested and uncontested paths to organizing critical financial paperwork, early preparation is key. Learn what essential steps to consider before filing.

Divorce can be a difficult process to navigate. But proper preparation can make it a faster and smoother transition. Here are 6 ways to prepare for a divorce.

10/01/2026

A standard will doesn't cover your digital life. To protect everything from online bank accounts to family photos, you need a digital estate plan that aligns with state laws and platform tools (like Apple Legacy Contact). Secure your digital footprint.

You've probably got a will, or you're planning to get one. Maybe you've already had the harder conversations about health directives and who gets