Essex County Divorce Law Blog

As we have discussed in the past, pet custody cases are on the rise in New Jersey and the rest of the United States. Evidently, some pet owners are so deeply attached to their furry companions that they are willing to fork over big bucks in custody battles.

For example, one New York man said he has spent about $30,000 in legal fees trying to regain custody of Knuckles, his pug-beagle mix.

The man's girlfriend reportedly took the dog with her when she moved to Southern California. The man, who said Knuckles is like son to him, is doing everything in his power to get the dog back and has even set up a web site where people can donate money to support his efforts. He said he is willing to go $60,000 in debt if it means getting Knuckles back.

Recently, we wrote about a child support case involving more money than most parents in New Jersey could even imagine being asked to pay. Supermodel Linda Evangelista asked a family court for a reported $46,000 per month in child support from French billionaire Francois-Henri Pinault, the father of her 5-year-old son.

The case went to trial last week, but it was reported yesterday that a settlement had been reached. No details were released, but an attorney for Pinault said that both parties were relieved that the lawsuit had come to an end. The settlement agreement was to be given to a judge today for approval.

In 2005, a famous supermodel and the CEO of a Paris-based fashion conglomerate engaged in a four-month affair during which the supermodel became pregnant. The child, who is now 5-years-old, is currently at the center of a child support dispute that is making headlines.

Perhaps it's because the mom, Linda Evangelista, is asking for a reported $46,000 per month to cover expenses ranging from a 24-hour nanny to a chauffeur who is a former detective. The dad, French billionaire Francois-Henri Pinault has disputed the amount sought by Evangelista and is expected to testify in court on Thursday.

Going through a divorce can be one of the most emotionally and financially trying times in a person's life. However, a recent article from the Huffington Post explained that there are certain things a person can do maintain financial security while a divorce is in progress. Here are the remaining two tips:

4. Hire the right lawyer right off the bat.

Changing lawyers half-way through the divorce can be costly and time consuming. This is why you want to take the time at the very beginning to make sure you hire an attorney who is right for your case. Family law attorneys have a wide range of styles, interests and specialties, so finding one that fits your unique circumstance can make all the difference.