Law Office of Emily E. Rubenstein

Divorce is messy. Don't make it messier. We're discussing common ways that people inadvertently hurt their divorce cases and how to avoid these situations. Questions? Thoughts? Let us know in the comments.

I am honored to continue my public service to the LA legal community by accepting an appointment to the Los Angeles County Bar Association (LACBA) Judicial Appointments Committee. This committee responds to the governor's requests to evaluate individuals under consideration for appointment to the Superior Court bench. I am also honored to serve on LACBA's Access to Justice Committee, which works to maximize the delivery of legal services to persons of limited means, including through Domestic Violence Legal Services, Veterans Legal Services, Immigration Legal Services, AIDS Legal Services, and Civic Mediation. These committees work to create a more just and equitable LA, and I'm proud to be part of this important work.

We're discussing debt, finances, and engagement with bestcompany.com.

Domestic violence has increased in Los Angeles and around the world during the Covid-19 pandemic. It's an especially difficult time for those experiencing abuse at home. Thankfully, Los Angeles courts remain open for essential services, which includes issuance of Domestic Violence Restraining Orders. A DVRO is a powerful step towards peace and safety. The LA County Domestic Violence Hotline remains open 24/7: (800) 978-3600 and the City of LA has created a special resource w...ebsite: https://corona-virus.la/DVResources Grateful to live in a city that takes domestic violence seriously.

#ThatFeelingWhen the Judge grants your request for an emergency court order on behalf of a great client - and you didn't even have to leave the office. Thankful that LA courts have implemented a system for people to access justice safely.

Inspiring co-parenting article via The New York Times - "We share two amazing children, who need both of us. A pandemic doesn’t change that; it makes it clearer."

Many Los Angeles parents have questions about co-parenting during the coronavirus or COVID-19 crisis, and rightfully so. This is a difficult and confusing time to co-parent. Check out answers to frequently asked questions: Are parents obligated to implement the same health practices in both households? ... Can I withhold parenting time from the other parent given the state of emergency declared by all levels of government? What if one parent is not obeying guidelines relating to the coronavirus? Are symptoms of the coronavirus considered an emergency? Do I need to consult my ex before getting medical intervention for our child? What if I cannot pay child support because coronavirus has impacted my ability to work? Stay healthy, stay safe!

Relationships change, often beyond our control. We should give up the negative narrative that divorce is something shameful. There's no shame in leaving a struggling marriage if that's the right choice for you. It's not failure - it's being the hero of your own story. Powerful and important article from NBC News

Awkward day to be a divorce attorney #valentinesday

Should you pay your fiance's debts? Are you obligated to? Is it even a good idea? Keep in mind, having discussions about finances before getting married is one of the most beneficial things a couple can do. A premarital agreement is a great way to gain and maintain clarity about financial roles, responsibilities, and expectations.... Thank you for including me in this informative article, bestcompany.com

"Can I record abusive phone calls?" This is one of the most common questions we get in our domestic violence cases. Catch me below discussing this topic with DomesticShelters.org, the first and largest online and mobile searchable directory of domestic violence programs/shelters in the US and Canada.... Note: In California it's illegal to record a private conversation or telephone call without the consent of all parties to the conversation, but there are exceptions. For example, if the recording is a voicemail or if you have a Domestic Violence Restraining Order including the right to record conversations.

Financial infidelity is as serious as it is common - but it's a term you may not be familiar with. Financial infidelity occurs when couples with combined finances lie to each other about money. It can include hiding debt, purchases, or financial accounts from a partner. It can also include making secret financial transactions in opposition to the couple's financial planning strategies and goals. It can include lying about income or siphoning off income while claiming financia...l distress. Bottom line: financial infidelity is about secrecy or dishonesty - monetary activity that partners hide from each other. Financial infidelity can significantly impact divorce proceedings. In California, the relationship of husband and wife imposes the highest duty in the law that of a fiduciary. Spouses are held to the highest duty of good faith and fair dealing and neither is permitted to take unfair advantage of the other. For tips about red flags and how to protect yourself, click below.

Feeling grateful and reflective after volunteering for LACBA's Domestic Violence Legal Services Project this morning. Helping people access justice and safety is a powerful, powerful thing.

When news breaks that a celebrity couple is separating after a short marriage, as with Miley Cyrus and Liam Hemsworth this morning, many of us are left scratching our heads wondering what happened. The reality is that divorce in the first or second year of marriage is far more common than people think.