Husband makes $50k one year and then $150k the next. Now the parties are divorcing and the court needs to decide child support and alimony amounts. Husband obviously says $50k is the right income - Wife says $150k is correct. What should the court do?

Courts often turn to experts for help. Averaging the person’s income over a period of time (say 2 years) is also used. Arkansas law provides that the court cannot “cherry pick” a successful time period for purposes of calculating support (85 Ark. App. 419). This implies that the court cannot choose a particularly unsuccessful time period either.

The following case, which upheld the trial court’s calculation, holds that the most current information is usually the best evidence - but accuracy in making the final determination is equally important so older information may also be needed.

http://courts.arkansas.gov/unpublished/2008a/20080409/ca07-767.pdf

Divorce can be one of the most traumatic events in a person’s life, and not just for the divorcing parties.  Parents, children, siblings – all can be affected.  Some thoughts to keep in mind:
·          Personal time alone is essential.  However, do not withdraw from your friends and family.  Having the support of friends and family is essential during a divorce.
·          Maintain your spirituality.  Stay involved at your place of worship.  If you do not have a place of worship, consider finding one.
·          Do not get into confrontations with your spouse.  Sometimes this is unavoidable.  However, make sure you are not giving your spouse opportunities to create confrontations. 

Today is Earth Day! What can you do to celebrate, conserve, participate, etc.? Who better than the Environmental Protection Agency to give you answers? Podcasts, events, volunteer opps - its all here.

http://www.epa.gov/earthday/