Ex-it Strategy

Elizabeth Stephenson and Sarah J. Hink of New Direction Family Law introduce new attorney Tyler E. Kaestner, who recently moved from Pennsylvania to Raleigh, and discuss key differences between Pennsylvania and North Carolina family law and procedure. They compare divorce timelines and separation requirements (including Pennsylvania’s ability to be “separated” while living in the same home), custo...

Attorneys Elizabeth Stephenson, Sarah J. Hink, and Tyler E. Kaestner of New Direction Family Law talk with mental health professional Fauzia Faizi Shah about complex PTSD and narcissistic personality disorder and how these dynamics commonly surface in separation, divorce, and custody cases. Shah describes narcissistic traits and tactics such as gaslighting (changing someone’s reality), love-bombin...

Elizabeth Stevenson and Sarah J. Hink of New Direction Family Law, joined by associate attorney Tyler E. Kaestner, interview Veronica Kemeny, a licensed clinical social worker and co-owner of Anchor Perinatal Wellness in Raleigh, during Maternal Mental Health Awareness Month. They discuss perinatal mental health as an inclusive term covering trying to conceive, pregnancy, postpartum (up to two yea...

Attorneys Sarah Hink and Elizabeth Stevenson return from a hiatus on the Exit Strategy podcast to discuss why custody is often the hardest part of divorce and separation, including the emotional challenge of sharing time with children. They explain that in the North Carolina counties where they practice, courts often start from a 50/50 assumption tied to the child’s best interests and a relationsh...

Family law attorneys Sarah Hink and Elizabeth Stevenson of New Direction Family Law discuss North Carolina equitable distribution in divorce, emphasizing that most marital property and debt acquired from the date of marriage to the date of separation is typically divided 50/50, regardless of whose name it’s in, with values generally set as of separation. They explain separate property carve-outs (...

Family law attorneys Elizabeth Stevenson and Sarah Hink of New Direction Family Law discuss common mistakes people make during separation and divorce, emphasizing that emotions can lead to regrettable decisions. They warn that social media posts, texts, DMs, and even posts by friends or family can be used in court, and note North Carolina is a one-party consent state where conversations may be leg...

High-Profile Celebrity Breakups & Legal Drama are making headlines. From romantic entanglements like Travis Kelsey and Taylor Swift to legal battles such as the Coldplay Kiss Cam scandal and the divorce of Jeff Bezos, this episode grants an insider look into the legal ramifications of celebrity relationships. Get expert insights on prenups, custody battles, and much more. Also, tune in for a h...

New Direction Family Law layers and staff discuss the complexities around parentage. They cover the process of establishing and disestablishing parentage, the legal implications, and the need for paternity actions. The team also explores issues related to legitimation actions, the legal challenges of changing a child's surname, and the complications that arise within same-sex parent families. Tune...

We unpack the complex and often controversial legal topics of Alienation of Affection and Criminal Conversation. They discuss the nuances, historical context, and practical implications of these laws, which are still recognized in a few states, including North Carolina. The conversation includes real-life cases, the pros and cons of pursuing such lawsuits, and the potential impacts on all parties...

Join lizabeth A. Stephenson and Sarah J. Hink from New Direction Family Law as they delve into crucial insights for clients preparing to testify in family court. Alongside Cam, their coordinator, they discuss the intricacies of courtroom procedures, the importance of honest and concise testimony, and how to handle cross-examinations and character witnesses. From what to wear to how to manage your...

Our hosts discuss the complexities of handling custody issues when co-parents live in different states. They delve into the legalities, jurisdiction matters, and real-life scenarios including military families and interstate relocations. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding state laws, getting court permissions, and the potential emotional and financial impacts on the childr...

In this insightful discussion, we talk about the growing phenomenon of 'default parent' divorces among millennial marriages. The episode explores the dynamics of household responsibilities, the emotional toll of being the default parent, and how this imbalance often leads to marital discord and eventually divorce. The hosts share personal anecdotes, client experiences, and offer practical advice o...

In this insightful discussion, Cameron, the Marketing and Business Development Manager at New Direction Family Law, and Elizabeth Stevenson, a partner at the firm, dive deep into the intricate intersection of estate planning and family law with Hampton Crumpler, an attorney at NC Planning. They explore the complexities of generational wealth, trusts, wills, and how these elements play crucial role...

In this episode, Elizabeth Stevenson and Ashley Oldham of New Direction Family Law discuss the crucial process of selecting the right divorce attorney. They cover essential steps such as the importance of initial consultations, building a trust-based relationship, understanding retainer fees, and ensuring transparent communication. They also emphasize the value of honesty and document organization...

Join Elizabeth Stevenson from New Direction Family Law and her colleague Ashley Oldham as they discuss the unique challenges of military divorces. In this episode, they delve into the nuances of divorce for military families, covering topics such as pension division, custody arrangements, and the Uniform Deployed Parents Custody and Visitation Act. Ashley, a board-certified family law specialist w...

Join Sarah Hink and Ava Jeanette from New Direction Family Law as they chat with guest attorney Matt McGonagle about crucial aspects of business creation, estate planning, and protecting your business in the event of divorce or death. They discuss the importance of having proper legal agreements like operating agreements and shareholders' agreements, and dive into the complexities of trusts, estat...

In this episode, Sarah J. Hink and Ava K. Jennette from New Direction Family Law discuss the procedural steps involved in obtaining a domestic violence protective order (DVPO) in North Carolina. They offer advice on resources such as local domestic violence resource centers and highlight the essential details needed in the complaint form, including specific allegations and dates. The discussion in...

Join Sarah Hink and attorney Ava Jeanette from New Direction Family Law as they delve into the intricate process of filing for absolute divorce in North Carolina. Learn about the requirements such as the mandatory one year and one day physical separation, the importance of resolving property and alimony issues beforehand, and the nuances related to service and court filings. They also discuss uniq...

Understanding Prenuptial Agreements: Protecting Your Future and Assets In this episode of New Direction Family Law, Elizabeth Stevenson and Sarah Hink discuss the importance of prenuptial agreements, especially for individuals entering second marriages or who have children from previous relationships. They explain how prenups can protect personal assets, manage debts, and anticipate changes in cir...

In this episode, Elizabeth Stevenson and Sarah Hink from New Direction Family Law discuss the complexities and emotional challenges of separation and divorce. They share practical advice on handling separation, especially in cases of domestic violence, financial complications, and child custody. They also introduce Cam Heinsohn, their new marketing and business development manager. The conversatio...

In this episode of 'The Exit Strategy: Your No Bullshit Guide to Divorce,' experienced attorneys Elizabeth Stevenson and Sarah Hink from New Direction Family Law discuss the vital role of parenting coordinators in high-conflict divorce situations. Learn how parenting coordinators, either attorneys or mental health professionals, are appointed to assist co-parents in making decisions and improving...

In this episode of 'The Exit Strategy: Your No Bullsh$t Guide to Divorce,' hosts Elizabeth Stevenson and Sarah Hink from New Direction Family Law are joined by Jason Deshayes, CEO of Cook Wealth. They discuss the crucial role of financial planning and tax preparation in the context of divorce. Topics include tax liabilities, the importance of transparency in joint tax filings, handling separate an...

Join Elizabeth A. Stephenson and Sarah J. Hink from New Direction Family Law as they explore the often misunderstood topic of annulments and how they differ from divorces. They discuss various grounds for annulments in North Carolina, including bigamy, mental incapacity, and underage marriage with parental consent. Elizabeth and Sarah also touch on some complex cases they’ve encountered and provid...

Summary: In this episode, Elizabeth Stephenson, Sarah Hink, and Jen Bordeaux from New Direction Family Law share the top ten essential tips and advice for navigating through a divorce. They cover both legal and personal aspects, offering practical insights and supportive guidance to help listeners manage this challenging period in their lives. From financial independence to emotional support, thes...

Summary: In this insightful episode, Elizabeth Stephenson, Sarah Hink, and Jen Bordeaux from New Direction Family Law discuss essential tips and advice for anyone preparing to go to court. Drawing from their extensive experience, they provide practical do’s and don’ts to help listeners present themselves effectively and navigate the courtroom with confidence. The episode covers everything from app...