Legal Lounge

Healing from abuse is rarely quick or simple, and for many survivors the journey involves years of reflection, self-discovery, and difficult emotional work. In this episode, Theresa sits down with speaker, advocate, and nonprofit founder Tasha Tanks to discuss how personal healing can emerge from confronting painful family history and choosing forgiveness. Tasha shares the story behind her nonprofit: No Longer Silent, her work educating middle and high school students about the warning signs of dating abuse, and how breaking cycles of silence can help others find their voice. She reflects on recognizing patterns from her father's abuse, in her own marriage choices, and in her 33-year journey to awareness and healing. Together, Theresa and Tasha explore how trauma shapes relationships, why healing is often nonlinear, and how honest conversations can empower survivors to move forward with strength rather than shame.Tasha Tanks is a speaker, advocate, and founder of No Longer Silent, a nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness about abuse and helping survivors break cycles of silence. Connect with Tasha:Support GroupIGLinkedInYouTubeTikTokFrom prenuptial agreements to divorce, Modern Legal is here to protect your family at all stages of life. With new offices now open in Waxhaw, Gastonia, and Statesville, you can schedule a consultation with our team today at the location most convenient for you.Resources mentioned:Tasha’s TEDx Talk3 takeaways that can help survivors begin healing after abuse are:Recognize patterns that may come from earlier trauma. Many survivors discover that past family dynamics influence the relationships they later choose. Identifying those patterns can be the first step toward breaking the cycle.Understand the difference between pain and ongoing suffering. Pain is often unavoidable after trauma, but choosing to confront the experience, seek support, and process it honestly can prevent years of continued emotional suffering.Build safe spaces for survivors to speak openly. Listening without judgment, offering support, and protecting someone’s confidence can help survivors find their voice and begin moving toward recovery.The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution. Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action. Connect with Modern Legal:WebsitePhone: 704-286-6302InstagramLinkedInYouTubeFacebook LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes.

Divorce is not only a legal process. It is also an emotional transition that affects decision-making, parenting, and the way children experience change inside the family. In this episode, Theresa sits down with divorce coach, mediator, and collaborative professional Andra Davidson to talk about the emotional side of divorce and why it deserves just as much attention as the legal side. This conversation explores how unresolved hurt can keep people stuck, how parents can communicate with children in ways that create safety instead of stress, and why taking the high road often protects both the parent, the child, and their relationship in the long run. This episode offers thoughtful guidance for anyone trying to move through divorce with greater clarity, steadiness, and care.Andra Davidson is a divorce coach, mediator, and founder of Better Than Before Divorce, where she helps individuals navigate both the logistical and emotional challenges of separation and divorce.Connect with Andra:WebsiteIGTikTokFacebookYouTubeNeed legal help in your family law matter? Schedule a consultation with our team to make sure you and your future spouse are both legally protected should a divorce occur. 3 ways to support your children emotionally during a divorce are:Keep adult problems with adults. Children should not be asked to carry details about infidelity, financial disputes, or conflict between parents. Protecting that boundary helps them feel safer and less responsible for problems they did not create.Talk about change in a way that builds security. Children do better when parents explain that life may look different, but their love, care, and presence will remain constant. Simple, age-appropriate reassurance can reduce anxiety and help children adjust.Create a home where your child can speak freely. When parents avoid criticism, blame, and pressure, children are more likely to share what they are feeling instead of hiding their worries to protect a parent’s emotions.The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution. Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action. Connect with Modern Legal:WebsitePhone: 704-286-6302InstagramLinkedInYouTubeFacebook LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes.

Money is one of the leading sources of conflict in marriage, yet it is often the topic couples avoid the most. In this episode, Theresa sits down with certified financial planner and chartered financial analyst Randall Avery to discuss how financial habits, hidden debts, and poor communication can create serious stress in relationships. From undisclosed six-figure student loan balances to the concept of financial infidelity, they explore the real financial issues that couples face both during marriage and during divorce. Theresa also breaks down the legal realities behind marital assets in North Carolina, the unexpected costs of divorce, and why financial transparency and literacy can protect both partners long before legal issues arise.Randall Avery is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) and Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®) who helps individuals and couples build financial systems that support their long-term goals. He works with clients across the United States through Deasil Wealth Management.Connect with Randall:WebsiteBookFrom prenuptial agreements to divorce, Modern Legal is here to protect your family at all stages of life. With new offices now open in Waxhaw, Gastonia, and Statesville, you can schedule a consultation with our team today at the location most convenient for you.3 financial habits that can prevent serious conflict in a marriage:Be transparent about debt and financial obligations early. Hidden liabilities like large student loans often surface only after finances merge, creating mistrust and long-term financial strain.Understand how the law treats marital assets. In North Carolina, assets created and accumulated during marriage, even those held in separate names, may still be considered marital property and divided in divorce.Make financial literacy a shared responsibility. Even if one spouse manages the finances, both partners should understand accounts, bills, and financial decisions so they can navigate emergencies, separation, or divorce with confidence.The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution. Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action. Connect with Modern Legal:WebsitePhone: 704-286-6302InstagramLinkedInYouTubeFacebook LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes.

What do breathalyzers, Instagram bans, and open marriage rules have in common? Family law consequences.In this celebrity-themed Q&A episode, producer Kristen Stegall puts Legal Lounge host and family law attorney Theresa Viera in the hot seat. Using headline-making cases like the Scott and Kelly Wolf custody battle, the Jeremy Allen White and Addison Timlin divorce, the Lily Allen and David Harbour split, and even cultural moments from 'Love is Blind' divorces,  the Ashley Madison scandal and Johnny Depp’s separation, they break down what courts actually consider when parenting time, privacy, and spousal support are on the line. From court-ordered breathalyzers and social media restrictions in custody cases to public divorce records and how infidelity really impacts alimony in North Carolina, Theresa separates legal reality from tabloid narrative. If you’ve ever wondered whether cheating affects spousal support, whether divorce filings are public, or how open marriage agreements hold up in court, this episode brings clarity to the headlines.Kristen Stegall is the founder and lead producer at Novice Studios, a full-service podcast production and marketing agency that helps business owners align their podcasting efforts with broader content and sales strategies. She’s known for helping clients feel confident behind the mic and for transforming podcasting from an overwhelming task into a growth-driven asset.Connect with Kristen:WebsiteIGNeed legal help in your family law matter? Schedule a consultation with our team to make sure you and your future spouse are both legally protected should a divorce occur. Episodes mentioned:40. Reality TV Custody Q&A | Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, Influencer Divorces, and More3 Legal Realities Behind Celebrity Divorce Headlines:Courts can impose real restrictions, like social media bans or breathalyzer testing, if a parent’s behavior raises safety concerns, even without a formal diagnosis. These measures are designed to protect children, not punish parents.Most divorce proceedings are public record by constitutional design, which is why personal details can quickly become public. Closing a courtroom or sealing records is possible, but rarely granted.In North Carolina, cheating is generally only a substantial factor in spousal support claims if there is financial dependency between the spouses and the ability to pay by the higher income-earner. If both spouses cheat or there is no financial dependency, infidelity typically carries far less legal weight than people assume.The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution. Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action. Connect with Modern Legal:WebsitePhone: 704-286-6302InstagramLinkedInYouTubeFacebook LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes.

Mental health stigma, social media pressure, and cultural expectations can quietly shape a young person's future – especially in communities where emotional struggles are rarely discussed. In this episode, Theresa sits down with Juliana Lozano, founder and executive director of Despierta, a Charlotte-based nonprofit empowering Latina youth and women through emotional support, digital wellness education, and leadership development. Juliana shares how her personal experiences with untreated mental health challenges and teen dating violence inspired her to create safe spaces inside Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, now serving more than 3,300 youth and women. Together, they discuss healthy relationships, representation, screen-time awareness, and what it truly means to help young girls "rise up."Connect with Despierta:WebsiteIGFacebookLinkedInJuliana Lozano is the Founder and Executive Director of Despierta (which means "Rise Up" in Spanish), a Charlotte-based nonprofit transforming the lives of Latina youth and women through mental health education, leadership development, and culturally responsive support programs.Need legal help in your family law matter? Schedule a consultation with our team to make sure you and your future spouse are both legally protected should a divorce occur. 3 Ways Despierta Helps Latina Teens Rise with Confidence and Strength:By creating culturally safe spaces to talk about mental health. Despierta normalizes therapy, emotional expression, and seeking help, by giving young women trusted adults and peers who validate their experiences before crisis escalates.By providing visible Latina role models and mentorship. Seeing strong Latina leaders in action expands what feels possible, helping girls break through limiting stereotypes and envision futures in college, careers, and leadership.By teaching healthy boundaries, communication, and digital wellness early. From recognizing unhealthy relationships to understanding screen-time habits, Despierta equips teens with practical tools to navigate friendships, social media, and identity with confidence.The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution. Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action. Connect with Modern Legal:WebsitePhone: 704-286-6302InstagramLinkedInYouTubeFacebook LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes.

Divorce is not a paperwork problem, but rather a mental, emotional, and logistical battle. And like any full-contact sport, you’re going to need more than just a rulebook. Certified Divorce Coach® Paula Lesso joins Theresa to talk about the kind of support most people do not realize they are missing: clear thought despite overwhelm, wisdom of the right questions to ask even before the legal steps begin, and quiet strength to move forward with confidence. From prepping financial documents to developing productive responses (despite gaslighting) with calm control, Paula shares how coaching fills the gap between surviving and actually navigating divorce in a way that protects your future -- not just your case.Paula Lesso is a Certified Divorce Coach® who supports clients through every stage of divorce with practical guidance, emotional clarity, and strategic preparation.Connect with Paula:[email protected] Need legal help in your family law matter? Schedule a consultation with our team to make sure you and your future spouse are both legally protected should a divorce occur. Some key takeaways from this episode include:Divorce coaching helps keep the attorney’s eye on the legal tasks at hand. From gathering documents to finding housing, coaches offer step-by-step support during an overwhelming time.A team approach often saves money. Dividing tasks between attorneys, coaches, and financial experts often makes the process more efficient and reduces billable hours.Coaching builds quiet strength. Clients learn to communicate clearly, manage conflict calmly, and make decisions with confidence, not crisis.The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution. Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action. Connect with Modern Legal:WebsitePhone: 704-286-6302InstagramLinkedInYouTubeFacebook LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes.

When you are scared, uncertain, or just desperate to protect your kids, the internet can feel like the only avenue to help. But family law is not crowd-sourced – and for parents navigating child custody disputes, bad advice online can cause more harm than help. It can be downright dangerous. In this episode, Theresa sits down with Modern Legal Attorney and Social Worker Tiffany Byrd to unpack the emotional and legal complexity behind custody myths, relocation battles, and what courts actually consider when a child’s well-being is on the line. Together, Theresa and Tiffany respond to real social media posts and questions rooted in fear, love, and survival. Their responses expressed with honesty, clarity, and grounded legal perspective. If you have ever wondered whether the law can really protect your child the way you hope it can, this conversation is a place to start.Need legal help in your family law matter? Schedule a consultation with our team to make sure you and your future spouse are both legally protected should a divorce occur. Resources mentioned:Mecklenburg County Courthouse Self-Serve CenterNorth Carolina Bar Association Lawyer Referral ServiceSome key takeaways from this episode include:Courts will not make child custody decisions based on vague fears or unsubstantiated allegations. To protect your children from emotional or mental abuse, you need specific, observable evidence – like documented  behavioral changes or concerns from professionals.Relocating with your children after separation or divorce involves more than just you. Even without a formal custody order, moving out of state with the children can backfire legally. Courts prioritize stability for children, not parental preference, and rarely approve major relocations without agreement from both parents.Legal help does not have to be all or nothing. If full representation is not affordable, you can still make progress by using consultations with an attorney wisely, tapping into local court resources, and strategically investing in support for the most critical parts of your case.The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution. Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action. Connect with Modern Legal:WebsitePhone: 704-286-6302InstagramLinkedInYouTubeFacebook LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes.

Separation and divorce bring more than just legal changes, they upend emotional, relational, and parenting dynamics in ways that most families are not prepared for. In this episode, Theresa sits down with licensed clinical mental health clinician and parent coordinator Dr. Tara Egan to explore the therapeutic services that can support parents and children through high-conflict custody and separation. From co-parenting therapy to reunification work, this conversation shines a light on the resources most families don’t know exist, and why getting help early can prevent years of emotional and legal turmoil.Dr. Tara Egan is a licensed therapist, parent coordinator, and founder of Egan Counseling & Consulting in Charlotte, NC. With over 20 years of experience, she specializes in supporting families navigating divorce through services like co-parenting counseling, reunification therapy, and parent coordination.Connect with Dr. Tara Egan:WebsiteTikTokFrom prenuptial agreements to divorce, Modern Legal is here to protect your family at all stages of life. With new offices now open in Waxhaw, Gastonia, and Statesville, you can schedule a consultation with our team today at the location most convenient for you.Some key takeaways from this episode include:Parent coordination, co-parenting therapy, and reunification therapy are distinct services that play different roles in supporting families through conflict.When families only address legal custody without tending to emotional wounds or parent-child dynamics, unresolved issues often resurface in future legal battles.Early support from mental health professionals with specialized divorce training can prevent crises, lower long-term legal costs, and improve outcomes for kids and parents alike.The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution. Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action. Connect with Modern Legal:WebsitePhone: 704-286-6302InstagramLinkedInYouTubeFacebook LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes.

When emotions run high and family disputes feel overwhelming, mediation offers a path forward that many overlook. In this episode, Deb Dilman and Theresa E. Viera, attorneys and certified mediators with Modern Legal, sit down to demystify mediation in family law. They discuss how mediation empowers parties to stay in control of decisions that impact their children, finances, and futures -- all while avoiding the emotional and financial toll of a courtroom battle.Need legal help in your family law matter? Schedule a consultation with our team to make sure you and your future spouse are both legally protected should a divorce occur. Resources mentioned:North Carolina Dispute Resolution CommissionNC State Bar Attorney LookupSome key takeaways from this episode include:Mediation gives you the power to decide what happens in your life, instead of having a judge decide. From parenting schedules to financial decisions, mediation keeps control in your hands and can help avoid outcomes that feel invasive or unfair.Certified mediators are trained to break through communication barriers, even when emotions run high. Many family conflicts stem from miscommunication, and a skilled mediator can help uncover shared goals and move both sides toward resolution.Preparation is everything. The more emotionally and practically prepared you are -- with clear goals, key documents, and realistic expectations -- the more likely mediation is to succeed without dragging into costly litigation.The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution. Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action. Connect with Modern Legal:WebsitePhone: 704-286-6302InstagramLinkedInYouTubeFacebook LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes.

This episode contains descriptions of stalking, kidnapping, and sexual violence. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you know needs help, you can contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, or text “START” to 88788. For stalking‑specific resources and support, visit the Stalking Prevention, Awareness, and Resource Center at stalkingawareness.org. What does survival look like when the system says you are overreacting -- until it’s too late? In this episode of Legal Lounge, host Theresa Viera speaks with Samantha Stites, whose story of being stalked, abducted, and ultimately surviving a violent ordeal was featured in Hulu’s Stalking Samantha: 13 Years of Terror. Samantha shares what the cameras didn’t capture: the slow escalation, the legal roadblocks, and how she reclaimed her voice. This episode is a powerful conversation about boundaries, consent, and the gaps in our legal system.Samantha Stites is a clinical licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)and co-founder of Beekeepers Advocacy, an organization dedicated to supporting stalking survivors and educating the public about violence prevention. After surviving a years-long stalking campaign and a violent abduction, Samantha has become a powerful advocate for legal reform and survivor support.Connect with Samantha:Beekeepers AdvocacyFrom domestic violence to divorce, Modern Legal is here to protect your family at all stages of life. If you would like to learn more or need assistance with a legal issue, you can schedule a consultation with our team today.Resources mentioned:Stalking Samantha: 13 Years of TerrorSome key takeaways from this episode include:In many states, including North Carolina, filing a protective order against someone who is not a current or former romantic partner can be significantly more complicated and may limit available legal protections.When stalking behaviors escalate, victims often face disbelief, delayed police response, or court dismissals -- even after showing repeated boundary violations.Being stalked or threatened can change how you move through the world, from locking doors to avoiding routine, and those adaptations are valid and necessary for safety.The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution. Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action. Connect with Modern Legal:WebsitePhone: 704-286-6302InstagramLinkedInYouTubeFacebook LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes.

This episode contains graphic depictions of domestic violence and child abuse. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you know needs help, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, or text “START” to 88788._______________________________________________________________In part two of this series with Theresa’s mother, Eileen Gonzalez, Theresa shares her own experience of domestic violence at the hands of her biological father after her family moved to Cary, North Carolina. Theresa and Eileen explain the events that led to them finally getting help and getting out, and the events that followed when their abuser still fought to maintain power and control over them.Need legal help in your family law matter? Schedule a consultation with our team to make sure you and your future spouse are both legally protected should a divorce occur.Resources mentioned:Interact of Wake CountySafe Alliance of CharlotteNational Domestic Violence HotlineThe Power and Control WheelModern Legal’s Domestic Violence and Child Abuse ResourcesSome key takeaways from this episode include:After Eileen’s husband left a threatening note on their front door, one of the police officers that helped Theresa and Eileen told them not to return to their home. Sure enough, he returned that night and the police were ready to respond with critical protective measures.Basic information about students attending public colleges and universities is easily accessible, but you can request for your information to be private to the point where the school cannot disclose if you are - or ever were - a student there.The abuser will never accept that you have taken control of your own life and left the situation. It does not mean your future is hopeless or that getting out is not possible, but survivors of domestic violence know there can be a constant, low hum of anxiety and fear about your abuser coming back.The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution. Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action. Connect with Modern Legal:WebsitePhone: 704-286-6302InstagramLinkedInYouTubeFacebook LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes.

This episode contains graphic depictions of domestic violence and child abuse. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you know needs help, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, or text “START” to 88788._______________________________________________________________In this very special series on the Legal Lounge podcast, Theresa invites her mother, Eileen Gonzalez, to share a difficult story that changed her life and the lives of her two children. For nearly two decades, Eileen endured physical abuse, isolation, and harassment from her husband. In this episode, she details the early warning signs, the people who helped her (and those who could have and didn’t), and what she’s come to understand about people who want power and control in a relationship.Need legal help in your family law matter? Schedule a consultation with our team to make sure you and your future spouse are both legally protected should a divorce occur.Resources mentioned:National Domestic Violence HotlineThe Power and Control WheelModern Legal’s Domestic Violence and Child Abuse ResourcesSome key takeaways from this episode include:Traditional expectations of women to keep their families together, especially among religious families, can make it difficult for women to seek support from their communities in a domestic violence situation. Children of all ages - especially younger kids - observe and remember domestic violence incidents more clearly than people might realize. Theresa remembers one particular incident down to the specific towel that was used to clean up the aftermath.In one particular incident, the perpetrator’s immediate family members witnessed a domestic violence act turned child abuse act and did not intervene at all. It is critical not to be a silent bystander when you see something like that. Apathy causes harm. The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution. Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action. Connect with Modern Legal:WebsitePhone: 704-286-6302InstagramLinkedInYouTubeFacebook LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes.

What do soda shops, Netflix documentaries, and YouTube divorces have in common? Family law lessons.In this special Q&A episode, producer Kristen Stegall puts Legal Lounge host and family law attorney Theresa Viera in the hot seat. Using examples ripped from reality TV, influencer drama, and real-life hypotheticals, they unpack what courts actually consider in complex custody cases - especially when new partners, cross-state moves, and step-parents are involved.Kristen Stegall is the founder and lead producer at Novice Studios, a full-service podcast production and marketing agency that helps business owners align their podcasting efforts with broader content and sales strategies. She’s known for helping clients feel confident behind the mic and for transforming podcasting from an overwhelming task into a growth-driven asset.Need legal help in your family law matter? Schedule a consultation with our team to make sure you and your future spouse are both legally protected should a divorce occur.Some key takeaways from this episode include:Courts adjust custody arrangements based on co-parenting relationships, sibling relationships, safety, and household stability. Step-parents do not have legal rights to children from a prior relationship unless they go through the formal adoption process–even if they have played a major parental role.Moving across state lines can raise complex jurisdiction issues under the UCCJEA, which can affect which state has authority over your custody matters.A parenting coordinator in high-conflict custody cases can help reduce court involvement while focusing on the child's best interest.The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution. Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action. Connect with Modern Legal:WebsitePhone: 704-286-6302InstagramLinkedInYouTubeFacebook LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes.

Teens today are navigating more pressures than ever - from school and social anxiety to growing up in a pandemic. What happens when you give them space to lead, create, and belong? In this episode, Theresa sits down with Eden, a recent graduate of the Charlotte-based nonprofit Playing for Others (PFO). Eden shares how this teen leadership program changed her life through community service, the arts, and inclusion. She opens up about finding friendship, identity, and purpose - even during the isolation of COVID - and how she plans to carry the “PFO magic” into college and beyond.Connect with Playing for Others:WebsiteInstagramNeed legal help in your family law matter? Schedule a consultation with our team to make sure you and your future spouse are both legally protected should a divorce occur.In this episode, we discuss:How PFO helps teens answer “Who am I?”  and “What can I give of that?” through leadership, creativity, and connectionWhy programs like the Buddy Program build empathy and create friendships that last beyond high schoolHow strong community and clear adult support systems help teens feel emotionally safe, seen, and valuedThe Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution. Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action. Connect with Modern Legal:WebsitePhone: 704-286-6302InstagramLinkedInYouTubeFacebook LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes. 

Separation is never easy—especially when children are involved. The emotional toll of child custody decisions can feel overwhelming, but there are steps you can take early to reduce stress, avoid going to court, and create a more stable future for your family. In this episode, Theresa is joined by attorney Tiffany Byrd of Modern Legal to break down what parents need to know about navigating custody in North Carolina and South Carolina. Tiffany shares practical advice for how to prepare emotionally, what custody mediation actually looks like, and why a detailed parenting plan makes all the difference.Need legal help in your family law matter? Schedule a consultation with our team to make sure you and your future spouse are both legally protected should a divorce occur.Some key takeaways from this episode include:Preparing emotionally before separation helps parents support their children with calm confidence. If you are constantly frustrated and stressed, your kids will pick up on it and it can add more fear to an already stressful situation.Joint legal custody does not mean much without clarity. Between you and your ex, define who makes which decisions and when those decisions should be made so you can avoid future conflict.Going to court is a last resort. Mediation, attorney guidance, and proactive parenting plans can help keep you out of the courtroom and in control of your family’s future.The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution. Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action. Connect with Modern Legal:WebsitePhone: 704-286-6302InstagramLinkedInYouTubeFacebook LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes. 

Deciding whether or not you want the marital home in your divorce can be a deeply personal and emotional decision, but it can also come down to numbers. In this episode, Theresa is joined by Nicole McAlister, the Owner of Premier Property Solutions, a real estate agency serving the greater Charlotte area. Nicole has seen it all when it comes to home ownership and where it can intersect with separation and divorce. She shares her expertise on how to protect your real estate assets while you are still in the honeymoon phase, when it’s a good option to rent instead of buy, and how to buy your partner out of the home if that is the right financial decision for you.Connect with Nicole:WebsiteInstagramPhone: 704-964-8718From prenuptial agreements to divorce, Modern Legal is here to protect your family at all stages of life. Schedule a consultation with our team today!Some key takeaways from this episode include:Don’t be caught off guard by not knowing your financial situation, especially when it comes to your home. Know your mortgage payment, interest rate, and how much equity you have in the home.If you buy a home with your partner, you can structure a prenuptial agreement to say you each receive a portion of the sale of the home proportional to what you each contributed to the down payment.There are several options to buy your partner out of their share of the home in the event of a divorce, and a great real estate agent like Nicole will help you explore those options.The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution. Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action. Connect with Modern Legal:WebsitePhone: 704-286-6302InstagramLinkedInYouTubeFacebook LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes.

There might be one “D” word scarier than Divorce: Dating. Luckily, we have an expert in the house to take that fear away. Laurie Berzack, Owner of Carolinas Matchmaker, joins us in the Legal Lounge to go over the ins and outs of modern dating, how to approach finding a match, and the tried-and-true ways to keep the spark alive and foster healthy communication in a relationship. Whether you are ready to get back out there after your divorce, or looking for ways to improve your marriage instead of separating, this episode is for you! Connect with Laurie:WebsiteInstagramFacebookNeed legal help in your family law matter? Schedule a consultation with our team to make sure you and your future spouse are both legally protected should a divorce occur.Some key takeaways from this episode include:Dating apps create an atmosphere where we focus too much on looks and physical attributes instead of the shared goals and interests that make for a strong relationship. A matchmaker can help remove those blockers and help you find great potential matches based on what truly matters to you.Learn how the person you are dating likes to communicate, and share your communication preferences up front as well. The earlier you can establish strong communication - even if you are not exclusive yet - the more effectively you will handle conflict down the road.When things progress to the next stage, division of labor in a relationship becomes an important piece of the “relationship” puzzle. When you are not distributing household responsibilities fairly, it can create a lot of tension and division. And if there’s a chore you both hate? Maybe it is time to consider outsourcing the chore and to work the expense into the budget!The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution. Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action. Connect with Modern Legal:WebsitePhone: 704-286-6302InstagramLinkedInYouTubeFacebook LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes. 

Separation and divorce can create a lot of uncertainty and stress, especially for men who believe they are going to lose child custody rights or be taken advantage of financially due to alimony and child support issues. While a great divorce attorney will support you in pursuing appropriate legal relief, a divorce coach will help you process your situation to make level-headed, empowered decisions instead of miscalculated reactions rooted in fear. In this episode, Theresa is joined by James Traub, a Certified Divorce Coach® based in Charlotte, NC, to discuss how a divorce coach can help you gain clarity on what you really want and develop the skills needed to move forward peacefully. Connect with James:WebsiteLinkedInFrom prenuptial agreements to divorce, Modern Legal is here to protect your family at all stages of life. Schedule a consultation with our team today!Some key takeaways from this episode include:Reaching out to a divorce coach if you are on the fence about separation is a great way to talk through your fears and stressors. At times, working with a divorce coach can result in avoiding divorce because you identify and get to the root of the issues before the marriage has completely broken. When your soon-to-be-ex spouse is threatening your financial stability or threatening to take your children away, fear and anxiety will understandably follow. A divorce coach can help connect you to professionals and resources that can expose the reality surrounding such threats, often exposing that there is no weight in the threats and to assist you in becoming an advocate for yourself.If you do move forward with separation and divorce, a divorce coach and divorce team can help you develop the skills and emotional intelligence needed to maintain cordial relations moving forward (even if you never become friends with your ex again). Public Service Announcement: you will likely interact with your ex again - especially if you have children together - so proceed wisely! The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution. Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action. Connect with Modern Legal:WebsitePhone: 704-286-6302InstagramLinkedInYouTubeFacebook LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes. 

Divorce can bring up a lot of feelings: sadness, anger, and grief, to name a few. But maybe you and your soon-to-be ex-spouse want to work together to make your separation and divorce as smooth and peaceful as possible. That is where Collaborative Law can help. In this episode, Deb L. Dilman from the Modern Legal team joins Theresa to discuss the process of Collaborative Law, who could benefit from it, and why avoiding the courtroom when possible can ensure the best possible outcomes for you, your ex-spouse, and your children, if you have them.Deb L. Dilman is an award-winning family law attorney, collaborative attorney, and a NC DRC Certified Mediator. She has been practicing law for over 20 years and she joined the Modern Legal team in 2024.From prenuptial agreements to divorce, Modern Legal is here to protect your family at all stages of life. Schedule a consultation with our team today!Some key takeaways from this episode include:Collaborative Law in North Carolina allows you to uncouple from your relationship without acrimony. You will have meetings where you disclose things openly and honestly with each other, and not go to litigation. You actually both sign an agreement saying you will not go to court to settle your divorce amicably.Attorneys are not trained mental health professionals and often lack the skills needed to deal with the emotional toll of separation and divorce. Having a divorce coach or a mental health professional participate in your collaborative divorce can offer the emotional support you need to talk through the specifics of your separation in an honest, respectful manner.Collaborative law is different from a lawsuit. Collaborative law allows you to negotiate the terms of your divorce and sign an agreement, so when you or your spouse are ready to officially file for divorce, the terms are already set.The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution. Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action. Connect with Modern Legal:WebsitePhone: 704-286-6302InstagramLinkedInYouTubeFacebook LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes.

In a divorce, people tend to get caught up in what they can get in that very moment - the former marital home, alimony, or even a specific piece of furniture - instead of planning for their financial future. In this episode, Theresa is joined by Leah Hadley to discuss how working with a CDFA® can save you tens - if not hundreds - of thousands of dollars and set you up well for your life after divorce and beyond. Leah is a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CFDA®) and the Founder of Intentional Wealth Partners, based in Ohio. Connect with Leah:WebsiteInstagramIntentional Divorce Insights PodcastNeed legal help in your family law matter? Schedule a consultation with our team to make sure you and your future spouse are both legally protected should a divorce occur.Some key takeaways from this episode include:A CDFA® is different from a general financial advisor. CDFAs understand financial planning, but they have specialized training in how finances and divorce proceedings intersect.When you are in the middle of a divorce, it can feel critical to get “as much as possible” in that moment, which may not result in the best benefit for you in the future. A CDFA® can help you look to the future and make financial negotiations during divorce proceedings that will set you up for a solid financial future.Pensions can be a complicated asset to divide, especially if this is your second or third divorce. Without a CDFA®, you could end up in a compromising position where you and/or your beneficiaries are not left with enough to support you in retirement.The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution. Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action. Connect with Modern Legal:WebsitePhone: 704-286-6302InstagramLinkedInYouTubeFacebook LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes.

Starting and running a business is such an exciting venture, but it’s so important to legally protect yourself. Whether you’re working with a business partner, your spouse, or if you co-own a business with your spouse and now you are getting a divorce, working with a business attorney will ensure you are legally covered. In this episode, Shawn Garrett, a fractional Chief Legal Officer, and owner of Garrett, PLLC, joins Theresa to discuss how business law and family law intersect so you can save yourself some headaches down the road.Connect with Shawn:WebsiteInstagramLinkedInFrom prenuptial agreements to divorce, Modern Legal is here to protect your family at all stages of life. Schedule a consultation with our team today!Some key takeaways from this episode include:Operating agreements are kind of like a prenup for a business relationship. It establishes who is responsible for what in the business operations, gives one owner the first right of refusal in the event the other business partner passes away or leaves the partnership, and so much more.In situations where someone is becoming a franchisee, the franchise might require their spouse to co-sign on that business. Working with both a business attorney and family law attorney can allow you to come up with a solution that protects both spouses.If spouses co-own a business with a 50/50 ownership split and they decide to separate and divorce, but they still want to co-own the business, it might be a good idea to bring in a third business partner. If the ex-spouses disagree, there’s a third opinion to “break the tie,” so to speak.The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution. Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action. Connect with Modern Legal:WebsitePhone: 704-286-6302InstagramLinkedInYouTubeFacebook LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes.

Family law matters can bring up a lot of raw emotions, especially if they trigger memories of past trauma. In this episode, Theresa sits down with Veronica Del Pino, LCSW, to discuss the effect trauma has on our bodies, grounding exercises to work through triggering moments, and how to raise kids that know how to advocate for their own boundaries. Veronica is a licensed therapist who specializes in working with mothers who experienced childhood sexual abuse. From prenuptial agreements to divorce, Modern Legal is here to protect your family at all stages of life. Schedule a consultation with our team today!Some key takeaways from this episode include:Trauma is stored in the body. We might suppress painful memories, but when something triggers us, those memories come rushing back. That’s why it’s important to work with a trauma therapist who can help you learn coping skills to feel grounded in those moments. Encourage your children to have bodily autonomy while still setting boundaries. If they don’t want to hug a family member, or are uncomfortable with the way someone is touching them, advocate for them and empower them to set boundaries for their body.The internet is made for adult brains, not children’s brains. It’s crucial to discuss internet safety with your children and monitor their screentime. The more we have open dialogue with our children about dangers online, the more likely they are to notice it and report it.The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution. Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action. Connect with Modern Legal:WebsitePhone: 704-286-6302InstagramLinkedInYouTubeFacebook LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes.

If you are worried that a divorce will be costly because your spouse is going to drag it out, avoiding the divorce is likely not your best option. In this episode, our Podcast Producer Kristen Stegall, CEO of Novice Studios, shares her experience of her mother-in-law’s sudden passing and the legal difficulties that emerged from her being separated, but not divorced. To compound issues further, there was no estate planning either. If you or someone you know is going through a possible separation with an abusive partner, this episode is packed with actionable advice for how to move forward while protecting yourself and your family.Need legal help in your family law matter? Schedule a consultation with our team to make sure you and your future spouse are both legally protected should a divorce occur.Resources mentioned:Watch Episode 22: Can I Afford to Get Divorced? SafeHouse | Crisis Line: (205) 669-7233 (SAFE)Some key takeaways from this episode include:Your attorney will work with you to figure out how you can financially cover your legal fees for a divorce, and they’ll help you understand a cost-benefit analysis of how much you may be able to recoup in the divorce.Talk to an attorney as early as possible. There is no harm in just gathering information to know your options, understand what could happen if you don’t get divorced, and to create a roadmap of your path forward.In cases of domestic abuse or domestic violence, the victim might have a distorted perception of both their legal and personal rights because their abuser has painted their reality for them. This is where resources like therapy, non-profits like SafeHouse, and a family law attorney can help the victim understand what is actually real.The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution. Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action. Connect with Modern Legal:WebsitePhone: 704-286-6302InstagramLinkedInYouTubeFacebook LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes. 

Estate planning is something we agree is important, but there is nothing easy about leaving your family behind upon your death. In this episode, estate planning attorney Sabrina Winters  - who has walked hundreds of people through the process of planning for their estate, medical powers of attorney, financial powers of attorney, and more - shares what’s important - and what’s not - to include in your will, why you need to plan for powers of attorney, when to update your will, and so much more!Connect with Sabrina Winters:WebsiteFacebookYouTubeFrom prenuptial agreements to divorce, Modern Legal is here to protect your family at all stages of life. Schedule a consultation with our team today!Some key takeaways from this episode include:Your estate planning process is entirely private and confidential. Your friends and family members are not entitled to know what’s in your will or trust, and are not allowed to be a part of your estate planning process in privileged communications with your attorney. When you’re choosing an attorney for estate planning, it’s crucial to find someone with whom you feel comfortable sharing your biggest fears, secrets, and wishes. This person will be the person you call for all your big life events, so trust and honesty have to be at the forefront.Your power of attorney is so important for ensuring your family isn’t left to make decisions about your health and life in the event you cannot make decisions for yourself. Your power of attorney ensures you get to write your last chapter and leave your family to execute those wishes guilt-free.The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution. Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action. Connect with Modern Legal:WebsitePhone: 704-286-6302InstagramLinkedInYouTubeFacebook LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes. 

Immigration law and its intersections with family law is a timely topic. With immigration news and policies evolving so quickly, there is no better time to have an immigrant attorney on the Legal Lounge. Mary Lynn Tedesco, ESQ., Founder and Senior Attorney of Tedesco Legal, PC, joins Theresa to discuss the nuances of immigration law, why it’s so important to secure your own immigration attorney if you need one, and how immigration law and family law intersect.Meet Mary Lynn Tedesco, ESQ.Born and raised in New Jersey, Attorney Mary Lynn Tedesco has been working with immigrants since 2010. She is proud to establish Tedesco Legal, P.C. to provide comprehensive legal services to a wide range of clients. Mary Lynn Tedesco is a Certified Specialist in Immigration Law according to the North Carolina State Bar.WebsiteFree ResourcesInstagramFacebookYouTubeNeed legal help in your family law matter? Schedule a consultation with our team to make sure you and your future spouse are both legally protected should a divorce occur.Some key takeaways from this episode include:Immigration policies are changing very rapidly. When you have an immigration attorney, they can keep you in the loop and answer your questions so you don’t unintentionally jeopardize your immigration situation.Having an immigration lawyer in your corner is critical. Sometimes citizenship eligibility can be denied because there is no attorney reviewing your case for your benefit. Your immigration lawyer will be your advocate in those situations.There are intricacies and intertwining factors when you have an international marriage, divorce, or custody case. In these cases, your immigration attorney and your family law attorney will work together to discern possible paths forward.The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution. Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action. Connect with Modern Legal:WebsitePhone: 704-286-6302InstagramLinkedInYouTubeFacebook LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes. 

We fully believe that sometimes getting a divorce is what’s best for the children in a home, but that doesn’t mean divorce will be a smooth-sailing process for them. That’s one of the reasons that Brynn Ungerleider, a nanny with over 20 years of professional childcare experience, founded the Premier Nanny Network. In this episode, Brynn joins Theresa to discuss how nannies can support with childcare and household management during your divorce to ensure your children have consistency and stability during this delicate season of transition for everyone.Brynn Ungerleider has supported parents for twenty years through both the joys and the chaos of home life. With over two decades of experience, she created the Premier Nanny Network with career-driven mothers, divorced families, and everyone in-between in mind. This agency pairs parents with fully vetted and excellent nannies to support them and their families. Connect with Premier Nanny Network: Website Instagram Facebook Email - [email protected] legal help in your family law matter? Schedule a consultation with our team to make sure you and your future spouse are both legally protected should a divorce occur.Some key takeaways from this episode include: Divorce can create a lot of turmoil for a family, because it’s a huge life transition for everyone in the home. It’s important to prioritize stability, attention, and care for the children in the home. That’s a really tall order for parents who are actively trying to manage their own feelings, jobs, etc.. But you don’t have to do it alone. A nanny is an incredible person to have on your support team while you navigate divorce. Nannies don’t only watch your kids; they can help with household management tasks to take stress off your plate during this tough transition. Consistency is key for children, especially during stressful seasons. When they’re suddenly bouncing between two households and splitting time with parents, there are going to be differences in routines in both homes. A nanny can help maintain consistency at both parents’ houses to ensure they have stability no matter where they’re spending the night. The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution. Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action. Connect with Modern Legal: Website Phone: 704-286-6302 Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Facebook LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes. 

Divorce is such an overwhelming process, and there are many intense emotions involved. In this episode, we’re peeling back the curtain on the process of divorce and what to expect when you first reach out to a family law firm like Modern Legal. Adrienne Dewberry, Firm Administrator at Modern Legal, joins Theresa to take you step-by-step through the process so you can feel prepared and understand why there are so many steps in the divorce process and how a good family law practice will hold your hand through each one.Need legal help in your family law matter? Schedule a consultation with our team to make sure you and your future spouse are both legally protected should a divorce occur.Some key takeaways from this episode include: Your first point of contact when you call a family law office will likely be a client intake coordinator or an administrator like Adrienne. Firm administrators, legal assistants, and paralegals are not legally allowed to give you any legal advice or answer legal questions. It might be frustrating not to get an immediate answer, but it’s important that legal advice comes directly from an attorney. There are professionals that specialize in divorce situations - like CDFAs,  CDREs, and divorce coaches - and a good family law attorney will refer you to these specialists to walk you through those steps. Some prospective clients call a law firm determined to “have their day in court.” But there are several steps before we get there, and it’s actually our goal to avoid going to court to save you money and stress, if that’s what’s best for the client and their case.The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution. Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action. Connect with Modern Legal: Website Phone: 704-286-6302 Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Facebook LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes. 

In this heartfelt and eye-opening episode, Bernadette Joy joins Theresa to dive into the deeper layers of financial wellness. This isn’t just about dollars and cents—it’s about addressing the emotional and physical toll of financial challenges. We discuss why professional guidance should be a part of your financial strategy, how societal structures like the patriarchy play a role, and the importance of prioritizing your mental and physical health as you pursue financial freedom. Bernadette shares her wisdom and practical insights, reminding us that true financial success isn’t just about a lavish lifestyle—it’s about stability and thriving in every aspect of life.Bernadette Joy is a financial educator and coach renowned for her remarkable journey from substantial debt to financial independence. As a first-generation Filipino American, she and her husband paid off $300,000 of debt within three years and subsequently built a net worth exceeding $1 million. She is the Founder of the CRUSH Your Money Goals® system, which is now a book recognized in the top 10 books for personal growth in 2025 by Oprah Daily.Connect with Bernadette: Website Instagram BookFrom prenuptial agreements to divorce, Modern Legal is here to protect your family at all stages of life. Schedule a consultation with our team today!Some key takeaways from this episode include: Prioritize yourself first. Bernadette reveals that many people, especially women, stay in unfulfilling jobs or relationships due to financial dependency. She emphasizes the importance of ensuring your own well-being before trying to care for others. Invest in your future self; don’t settle for shortcuts or only focus on immediate needs. Advocating for your future self requires intentional investments today that will pay off in the long run. Maintaining hope in the midst of struggle is what we’re here for. Even in the darkest moments of financial or personal crises like divorce, there’s always hope. Clients have proven time and again that it’s possible to rebuild their lives, find love, and achieve financial stability against all odds.The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution. Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action. Connect with Modern Legal: Website Phone: 704-286-6302 Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Facebook LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes.

If wealth management isn’t on your radar, it’s time to reconsider. In today’s episode, we’re joined by Jennifer Goode, J.D., the National Director of the Institute for Trust and Estate Planning at Bernstein Private Wealth Management. Jennifer and Theresa discuss how planning for life’s “what if’s” can protect and empower your loved ones. From navigating the nuances of prenuptial and postnuptial agreements, to building a solid foundation for estate planning, we explore how these tools are acts of love and care that ensure your dreams, values, and legacy are preserved—no matter what the future holds.  Connect with Jennifer Goode, J.D.: Website Email - [email protected] From prenuptial agreements to divorce, Modern Legal is here to protect your family at all stages of life. Schedule a consultation with our team today! Some key takeaways from this episode include: Prenups can be a powerful tool to foster understanding and collaboration in a marriage, helping couples plan their dream life together while addressing financial realities. By reframing them as an act of care for your partner and children, they serve as a safeguard for "what if" scenarios like divorce or death.  Postnuptial agreements often arise from specific circumstances, such as leveraging tax laws, or new estate planning goals. While postnups tend to be more focused than prenups, they can lead to creative problem-solving for the couple to plan their financial future.  Estate planning ensures your assets and decisions are handled according to your wishes, both during life and after passing. Building a solid foundation now can prevent complications later. The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution.  Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action.  Connect with Modern Legal: Website Phone: 704-286-6302 Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Facebook  LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes.

With the change in administrations this year, there are a lot of questions about whether Obergefell vs. Hodges - the 2015 Supreme Court decision that made same-sex marriage a federal constitutional right - could be overturned, leaving same-sex marriage rights up to the states. In this episode, Theresa and Tiffany discuss the possible repercussions and implications that could result due to a change in law, and how same-sex couples can leverage different tools to protect themselves and their families. Meet Tiffany Tiffany A. Byrd is a Family Law and Estate Planning Attorney. As the first attorney in her family, the first graduate of the JD/MSW program at University of South Carolina in over 15 years, a collegiate gymnast, and the product of a long list of individuals who made her journey possible, she combined her unique skill set to become an Attorney with the Modern Legal team.  From prenuptial agreements to divorce, Modern Legal is here to protect your family at all stages of life. Schedule a consultation with our team today! Some key takeaways from this episode include: Obergefell vs. Hodges made same-sex marriage a constitutionally protected right at a federal level. Protected rights to marry also extended domestic violence protections, parental rights, and marital rights to same-sex couples. One thing you can do to legally protect yourself is to establish your spouse - or someone you really trust - as your Power of Attorney. This person will make decisions and take action on your behalf if you are alive, but unable to make decisions yourself.  Creating a Will or Trust also provides legal protection in the event of your death. It ensures your assets go to whomever you wish, regardless of your legal relationship status. It’s hard to think about, but it will give you peace of mind. The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution.  Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action.  Connect with Modern Legal: Website Phone: 704-286-6302 Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Facebook  LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes. 

The decision to separate from your spouse is a difficult one, and finances are a top reason why people stay in unhappy and unhealthy marriages. In this episode, Theresa Viera and Deb Dilman discuss what it actually costs to go through the divorce process, why talking to an attorney early can save you money, and more ways to cut down costs while separating. Deb L. Dilman is an award-winning family law attorney, collaborative attorney, and a NC DRC Certified Mediator. She has been practicing law for over 20 years and she joined the Modern Legal team in 2024. Need legal help in your family law matter? Schedule a consultation with our team to make sure you and your future spouse are both legally protected should a divorce occur. Some key takeaways from this episode include: One thing you can do during the year of separation is work on regaining your financial independence. That might look like re-entering the workforce after staying home to raise your children or taking a class on financial literacy to learn how to manage finances on your own. The divorce process moves slowly, so don’t be afraid to reach out to an attorney in the early stages of deciding you want to separate from your spouse. A good attorney - like the team at Modern Legal - will take the process as slowly (or quickly) as you want to take it. While the prospect of moving out of your marital home and starting over can feel daunting, it can also be incredibly freeing and even exciting. If that’s your situation, try to embrace it as the beginning of a new chapter in your life. The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution.  Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action.  Connect with Modern Legal: Website Phone: 704-286-6302 Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Facebook  LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes.

If you want to avoid going to court, or can’t afford to hire an attorney, mediation can be a great tool to help you negotiate any disputes for your divorce in as calm and equitable of an environment as possible. In this episode, Deb Dilman joins Theresa to discuss the logistics, benefits, and limitations of mediation in the divorce process. Deb is one of the newest members of the Modern Legal team! She is an award-winning family law attorney, collaborative attorney, and a NC DRC Certified Mediator.  From prenuptial agreements to divorce, Modern Legal is here to protect your family at all stages of life. Schedule a consultation with our team today! Resources mentioned: Episode 3: When You Need a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst Episode 8: Q&A Discussion | Spousal Support vs. Child Support, Dividing Assets, Infidelity, and Cost of Living Some key takeaways from this episode include: Certified mediators go through additional training to be able to meet with couples who are divorcing before they go to court, or to avoid going to court by settling their amicably. They are NOT a substitute for a family law attorney and cannot give you legal advice. Mediation is completely confidential and anything discussed in the session cannot be used against either party in court. Therefore you can be relaxed and open in these discussions to help reach a resolution more quickly. One of the best things to prepare for a mediation are your non-negotiables, specifically your top one or two priorities. Your mediator should tell you which ones are doable and figure out how both parties can get their top non-negotiables. The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution.  Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action.  Connect with Modern Legal: Website Phone: 704-286-6302 Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Facebook  LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes. 

You’ve probably heard of business coaches, life coaches, and health coaches, but have you ever heard of a divorce coach? If you haven’t, let us introduce you to this incredible resource. In this episode, Lynn Myrick, a Redfern Certified Personal Coach and the Owner of Divorce Concierge, joins Theresa on the podcast to share what a divorce coach does, how they can support you through the divorce process, and her best tips for taking care of yourself in this difficult season. Connect with Lynn: Facebook Book a Consult Need legal help in your family law matter? Schedule a consultation with our team to make sure you and your future spouse are both legally protected should a divorce occur. Some key takeaways from this episode include: The best time to reach out to a divorce coach is actually while you are still deciding whether you want to get a divorce. A divorce coach can talk you through the first steps of the divorce process and give you referrals for attorneys and other divorce professionals. A divorce coach can teach you some tools to regulate the emotions that you’re experiencing during a divorce, especially if you have to appear in court. You want to make decisions in this season from a place of calm and logic, even if your emotions are up and down. If your stress is making you feel paralyzed, try the “Future You” principle. Envision yourself 20 years from now. Where are you? Who is with you? How are you feeling 20 years from now? It’s a great way to get perspective and remember this is a temporary chapter in your life. The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution.  Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action.  Connect with Modern Legal: Website Phone: 704-286-6302 Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Facebook  LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes.

Navigating a life transition such as divorce can be really challenging. Even exciting and joyous transitions like marriage, becoming a parent, or changing careers can bring some anxiety and fear of the unknown. In this episode, Brittany Canaski, a Life & Leadership Coach and Trainer, joins us to share how you can set yourself up for success in these transitions so you can approach them calmly and peacefully now matter how anxious you’re feeling right now. Brittany Canaski  is a highly-rated leadership coach and trainer who empowers professionals with the tools and confidence they need to accelerate their goals, both inside and outside of the workplace. Through coaching, training, and events, Brittany helps teams and individuals better understand their performance habits so that they can work smarter, not harder to get where they want to be. Connect with Brittany: • Website • LinkedIn Some key takeaways from this episode include: Sit down and take some time to reflect on your personal core values. What is most important to you in your life? Is it building connections with others? Is it making your home and physical environment beautiful? There are no right or wrong answers, so don’t choose values just because they “sound good” on paper. Once you choose your values, you have to walk the walk! How are you implementing your values into your daily routines, your interactions with others, and in how you live your life overall? Having open, honest, and direct communication with your partner can have a massive impact on the success of your relationship. Being honest about your needs, wants, and values will ensure you’re picking the right partner and building a strong foundation with them. The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution.  Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action.  Connect with Modern Legal: Website Phone: 704-286-6302 Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Facebook  LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes.

A lot of people’s impression of divorce is that it’s an all-out war: you and your ex mud slinging in court, your attorneys personally attacking each other, and constant tension and turmoil. Don’t get me wrong, this can be the case… unless your attorneys work together to get the best result for both you and your ex-spouse. In this episode, Jaime Davis, a Raleigh-based family law attorney, joins Theresa to discuss why it’s a good thing when opposing attorneys know each other and can work together… and what it looks like when they don’t. Jaime Humphries Davis joined Gailor Hunt Davis Taylor & Gibbs, PLLC in 2001. Jaime is a Board Certified Family Law Specialist and incorporates all areas of family law, with a concentration in complex equitable distribution and child custody matters, including relocation and interstate cases. She is a member of the Wake County and North Carolina Bar Associations and hosts the podcast A Year and a Day: Divorce Without Destruction.  Connect with Jaime: A Year and a Day: Divorce Without Destruction Podcast Website LinkedIn Some key takeaways from this episode include: It is not a conflict of interest if your attorney and your ex-spouse’s attorney know each other or are friends outside of the court. Your attorney’s first duty is to you as their client, and often you can get a more equitable result faster if your attorneys work well together. Your attorneys will get to know you and your situation extremely well. If your attorney and your ex-spouse’s attorney can’t come to a solution together, your fate will be up to the judge, who won’t know very much about you, your children, or your circumstances. Another benefit of your attorneys knowing each other is that if another professional is needed, such as a business valuator, and both attorneys agree to use the same professional, that will save time, effort, and money for both parties. If opposing counsel is a notoriously difficult attorney, the answer is not to engage in mudslinging or personal attacks. Your attorney should remain professional, firm, and attentive to what’s right for you and your family. The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution.  Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action.  Connect with Modern Legal: Website Phone: 704-286-6302 Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Facebook  LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes.

As family law attorneys, we see people asking for advice on social media all the time. In this episode, we’re addressing some of those scenarios and questions, specifically about custody of children. Sabrina M. Frenette from Modern Legal joins Theresa to discuss how the law and courts affect these scenarios, when the parents get to make decisions, how children’s preferences get factored in, and more. Meet Sabrina Sabrina M. Frenette is a Family Law Associate Attorney at Modern Legal. Once in law school, Sabrina quickly discovered her passion for family law. It not only allowed her to utilize her creative problem-solving skills, but also provided her with the opportunity to connect with clients and make a positive impact. She genuinely enjoys getting to know each client and helping them find the best solution for their family and unique circumstances. From prenuptial agreements to divorce, Modern Legal is here to protect your family at all stages of life. Schedule a consultation with our team today! Some key takeaways from this episode include: Relocating children across state lines during a divorce can be really tricky, even in domestic violence situations, so it’s essential to consult with your attorney before making any decisions about moving.  In North Carolina, there’s no specific age for children where a judge will consider their preference for custody arrangements. Overall, the child’s preference doesn’t hold a ton of weight, but may carry more weight as the child grows and matures. If you don’t have a great relationship with your ex-in-laws, but they may still have a strong relationship with your children. While your child is with your ex-spouse, your ex gets to make the decision about who they visit during that time.  The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution.  Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action.  Connect with Modern Legal: Website Phone: 704-286-6302 Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Facebook  LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes. 

Divorce and custody disputes are stressful to begin with, but they can be especially difficult with an abusive ex-partner. In this episode, Theresa is joined by Courtney Gilmartin, the Co-Founder of New Jersey Protective Moms, an 501(c) (3) grassroots organization advocating for support of mothers going through custody disputes with abusive ex-partners. Courtney shares her own experience of realizing she was in an abusive marriage, her own experience of custody battles in the family law system, and how she’s supporting and empowering mothers in a similar situation. Need legal help in your family law matter? Schedule a consultation with our team to make sure you and your future spouse are both legally protected should a divorce occur. Resources mentioned: New Jersey Protective Moms National Domestic Violence Hotline - 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) Some key takeaways from this episode include: Listen to and trust your gut. Even if everyone around you is saying your partner’s behavior is “normal” or “expected,” if you feel like something is wrong, honor that feeling and ask for help. Be conscious of how you’re utilizing information online, especially on social media. Social media can provide some validation through other people’s stories, but you should directly consult an attorney for legal advice or other respective professionals. A third-party mediator can be helpful in crafting a resolution that works best for everyone involved - or at least as close to a “best case scenario” as possible. This can also be more favorable than leaving it up to a judge. It’s so important to take care of yourself as a survivor of domestic abuse, whether it was physical, mental, emotional, or coercive abuse. Take the time to rediscover what brings you joy and makes you feel like the strongest, happiest version of yourself. The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution.  Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action.  Connect with Modern Legal: Website Phone: 704-286-6302 Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Facebook  LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes.

This week, Theresa is spotlighting one of Modern Legal’s non-profit partners: The Relatives. The Relatives is a system of resources that helps youth find shelter and support in Charlotte, NC through housing, education resources, and career counseling to build their independence and confidence. In this episode, Trish Hobson, Executive Director of The Relatives, shares their mission, their holistic approach to support, and how you can get involved! From prenuptial agreements to divorce, Modern Legal is here to protect your family at all stages of life. Schedule a consultation with our team today! Resources mentioned: The Relatives Crisis Hotline - 704-377-0602 Some key takeaways from this episode include: There are several social systems that a child might be involved in, such as the Department of Social Services or the criminal justice system. Research shows that the more systems young people are in, the less likely that child will rise up and out of poverty. Having someone on your side, who truly believes in you, can make or break your likelihood of success. The mentors and caseworkers at The Relatives serve to be that positive encouragement in these young people’s lives. There is data to support that youth who have committed “survival crimes” completely ceased the criminal activity after they received housing and support from The Relatives. What else is possible when youth are given the support they need to thrive? The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution.  Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action.  Connect with Modern Legal: Website Phone: 704-286-6302 Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Facebook  LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes.

You probably know that it’s best to be fully transparent with your future or current spouse about your financial circumstances, but what about transparency about your tax history and issues? In this episode, Theresa is joined by Brian Bernhardt, Tax Attorney at Fox Rothschild, to discuss what happens if there are tax liabilities before marriage, how to protect yourself from tax issues during the marriage, and where you may still be liable for your spouse’s tax obligations even if you didn’t know about them. Need legal help in your family law matter? Schedule a consultation with our team to make sure you and your future spouse are both legally protected should a divorce occur. Some key takeaways from this episode include: Spousal Agreements can specify who is responsible for tax liabilities. It is crucial to have financial transparency going into your marriage about your assets and your liabilities, especially tax liabilities. Based on your unique financial relationship with your partner, it might make sense to keep your bank accounts and tax filings completely separate. If you are separated but not yet divorced, it’s important to work with a family law attorney and tax professional to understand how to divide financial assets and liabilities.  The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution.  Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action.  Connect with Modern Legal: Website Phone: 704-286-6302 Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Facebook  LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes. 

Tiffany and Theresa are back in the Legal Lounge! In this episode, they discuss how family law can impact business owners in the event of a marriage, separation, or divorce. If you’ve worked hard to build something, you want to protect that asset, protect yourself, and protect your partner financially in the event the business fails. We cover all that and more in this episode! Need legal help in your family law matter? Schedule a consultation with our team to make sure you and your future spouse are both legally protected should a divorce occur. Resources mentioned: North Carolina Secretary of State | Business Registration Some key takeaways from this episode include: One of the first steps you need to take as a business owner is making your business a separate entity from yourself. This might include filing articles of incorporation, setting up your business as an LLC or corporation, and creating business bank accounts. If you’re getting married and you have a business, you might want to get a prenup to establish that your business and its assets (and liabilities!) are your own separate property and will belong to you in the event of a divorce. Separation and divorce can be a very traumatic experience, so eliminating some of the stress of having to evaluate and divide a business's value can help immensely. Having that prenup or postnup in place may be the best way to do that. The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution.  Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action.  Connect with Modern Legal: Website Phone: 704-286-6302 Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Facebook  LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes.

Financial planning can bring up a lot of stress and anxiety, but it’s so important for you to have a solid financial understanding and foundation. In this episode, Theresa is joined by Leah Williams, the Founder of Savvy Financial, to discuss why women should be thinking more about their financial futures, how to talk about finances with your partner, and where to start first. Connect with Leah: Website Facebook LinkedIn From prenuptial agreements to divorce, Modern Legal is here to protect your family at all stages of life. Schedule a consultation with our team today! Some key takeaways from this episode include: It’s so important for everyone - especially women - to understand their financial situation and have a plan for being financially independent. It’s crucial to understand the finances of your household and make empowered decisions about them. Discuss with your partner how you’ll spend and save your money. Everyone is bringing a different money story and goals to the table, but it’s important to get aligned on that before you get married, or as soon as possible if you’re already married. When it comes to finding an attorney or a financial advisor, you need to find someone who you feel truly understands you. If the first person you talk to isn’t a good fit, don’t get discouraged. Keep looking until you find the right professional to help you towards your goals. The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution.  Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action.  Connect with Modern Legal: Website Phone: 704-286-6302 Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Facebook  LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes.

The concept of trauma is widespread but ever elusive, especially when analyzing trauma amidst a divorce, custody dispute, or ongoing litigation of family law matters in court. In this episode, Tiffany and Theresa of Modern Legal are joined by Rachel Yount, MSW, a mental health professional based in Charlotte, NC. Rachel shares her experience in defining trauma and in helping her clients work through trauma.  From prenuptial agreements to divorce, Modern Legal is here to protect your family at all stages of life. Schedule a consultation with our team today! Some key takeaways from this episode include: Trauma can occur when something overwhelms a person’s capacity to manage that thing in that moment. It’s very individual to the person and has nothing to do with someone’s strength. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, especially during a difficult situation like a divorce or custody dispute, focus on grounding exercises. Observe your surroundings and say three things you see out loud, do a couple of math problems in your head, or do some tense and release exercises. If you think you might be trauma bonding with someone, meet with a counselor or therapist to process what the healthiest version of that relationship might look like for both parties, especially when children are involved. If you have to choose between going to therapy or sending your child(ren) to therapy, it often makes more sense for you as the parent to pursue counseling. Through therapy, a person can learn to parent and guide a child from a much more regulated and peaceful place. Unfortunately, an unregulated parent cannot regulate an unregulated child.  The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution.  Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action.  Connect with Modern Legal: Website Phone: 704-286-6302 Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Facebook  LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes.

Divorce can complicate a lot of things, and your mortgage is included - both for your marital home and any future home! In this episode, Pam Abirached, a Certified Divorce Lending Professional, joins Theresa to share the ways divorce, alimony, mortgage rates, and trust payments can affect your ability to qualify for a mortgage in this new chapter of life. Connect with Pam! Website Facebook From prenuptial agreements to divorce, Modern Legal is here to protect your family at all stages of life. Schedule a consultation with our team today! Some key takeaways from this episode include: North Carolina has a due diligence period and fee. This means when you put in an offer on the house, you are paying an earnest down payment and an additional due diligence fee that allows you to back out of the sale at any time, minus the due diligence fee.  During a divorce, if you are moving out of the marital home, you want to make sure your former spouse removes your name from the mortgage by refinancing or assuming the mortgage in just their name. If not, the marital home could affect your ability to buy another home. Payouts from trusts and quarterly or annual alimony payments can count towards your income depending on how the agreement or Order is drafted, but you have to provide proof of receiving those payments for specific lengths of time to qualify. The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution.  Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action.  Connect with Modern Legal: Website Phone: 704-286-6302 Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Facebook  LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes.

There are a lot of misconceptions about what it’s like working with a family law attorney, especially if you are mainly researching through Google or Facebook groups! One of the people who truly understands how to connect you with family law services is  Adrienne Dewberry, Modern Legal’s Firm Administrator. Adrienne is often the first point of contact for prospective clients, and offers them empathy and connection. In this episode, Adrienne shares how she navigates the emotional landscape with clients, provides resources to help clients make informed decisions, and why the Modern Legal team of attorneys are worth the investment. Need legal help in your family law matter? Schedule a consultation with our team to make sure you and your future spouse are both legally protected should a divorce occur. Some key takeaways from this episode include: The first thing Adrienne asks a prospective client  when they call Modern Legal is what led to the call. Adrienne often speaks with people who are scared to take the first step in their family legal matter, so the Modern Legal team reduces any pressure on taking these large steps until ready to do so. Instead, Modern Legal and Adrienne start as a resource to provide information and are ready to provide legal services when the client is ready. The court does not necessarily put weight on emotions, so if you are going through a family law dispute, your attorney should guide you through separating your emotions from the legal situation at hand. This allows you to focus on the best solution and next steps for you and your family. A family law attorney can be expensive, but it is an investment. You are likely going through a difficult situation related to your children, your marriage, your finances, and your assets when facing a family law dispute. Pursuing your best chances at a preferable outcome in your case will likely involve investing in an attorney fitting to your legal needs. The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution.  Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action.  Connect with Modern Legal: Website Phone: 704-286-6302 Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Facebook  LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes.

As divorce professionals, one of our biggest challenges is battling misinformation online. We see tons of questions asked in social media groups (such as Facebook) - usually anonymously - that many times elicit concerning responses because no two divorces or families are the same. In this episode, Gabriella E. Martinelli is back on the podcast joining Theresa to discuss some of these questions and our thoughts on each scenario. Through her firm Ever After Wealth®, Gabriella E. Martinelli CDFA® NCPM® CDS® works with individuals and couples going through a family law dispute by providing them with education and support so they are able to achieve and preserve financial independence. Connect with Gabriella & Ever After Wealth: Website Instagram Ever After Wealth LinkedIn Gabriella’s LinkedIn From prenuptial agreements to divorce, Modern Legal is here to protect your family at all stages of life. Schedule a consultation with our team today! Some key takeaways from this episode include: The ultimate goal of child support is to ensure the children have financial support in both households. A lot can factor into child support considerations including insurance, private school costs, and so much more. Dividing assets is way more complex than people realize. It is not just based on a list of assets, but can also include factors like how long you were married, equity in the marital home, and financial considerations such as housing for the children.  There are a lot of online calculators that spit out alimony or child support amounts, but they may be inaccurate and are not necessarily applicable in your state.  The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution.  Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action.  Connect with Modern Legal: Website Phone: 704-286-6302 Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Facebook  LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes. 

The word “forensic accounting” sounds like something straight out of CSI, but it’s actually used in more practical applications than you might think. In this episode, Theresa sits down with Greg Reagan, a CPA and Founder of forensic accounting firm Reagan FVL, to discuss what exactly a forensic accountant is and why they might be brought into divorce cases. About Reagan FVL Reagan FVL was formed as a Charlotte based forensic accounting firm in 2015, but its roots go back to 1982 when the Firm’s managing member, Greg Reagan, first began his CPA career in Birmingham, Alabama.  Today, Reagan FVL is a forensic accounting, business valuation, and litigation support firm serving the southeastern U.S. business communities. Connect with Greg: Reagan FVL Website Reagan FVL on LinkedIn Greg Reagan on LinkedIn Phone: 704-376-3399 Need legal help in your family law matter? Schedule a consultation with our team to make sure you and your future spouse are both legally protected should a divorce occur. Some key takeaways from this episode include: Forensic accountants do everything from fraud investigation to business valuation. They are often brought into a divorce case if there’s a business that needs to be assessed as the separating couple divides their assets. Forensic accountants are usually retained by an attorney in the divorce case, rather than an individual who is getting divorced. This keeps the forensic accountant’s work confidential until it is needed. A collaborative divorce is an option for people who are able to have discussions about all aspects of the divorce amicably. A counselor is usually present to help everyone process things emotionally.  The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution.  Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action.  Connect with Modern Legal: Website Phone: 704-286-6302 Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Facebook  LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes.

Domestic violence in a marriage is a very difficult situation to be in, especially when there are kids involved. For this episode, I interviewed a past client who decided to divorce her husband of over 20 years after she filed a domestic violence protection order. She shares her journey of finding Modern Legal, choosing mediation to avoid going to trial in a courtroom,, and the honest ups and downs of joint custody with her ex-husband. If you see yourself in her story, please don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with us so we can walk through this with you. From prenuptial agreements to divorce, Modern Legal is here to protect your family at all stages of life. Schedule a consultation with our team today! Some key takeaways from this episode include: In North Carolina, an ex parte domestic violence order of protection can be issued to grant the survivor temporary, sole possession of the house for up to ten days.  When you’re right at the beginning of your one-year separation in North Carolina, divorce can feel like a slow process that’s forever away. However, that time and space is so important for you to gather everything you need to resolve the issues related to divorce, such as property distribution, spousal support, child support, and child custody. Going through mediation is a great way to avoid going to trial in a courtroom. If successful, you may even walk away with a signed and notarized legal agreement from the mediation process. The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution.  Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action.  Connect with Modern Legal: Website Phone: 704-286-6302 Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Facebook  LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes. 

If you’re looking to sell your home during a divorce, this episode is for you! Theresa sat down with Karyn Porter and Lori Hawkins of the Porter Hawkins Group to discuss why you should hire a CDRE® instead of just any real estate agent, making sure both parties get equity from the sale, and handling sensitive cases such as domestic violence. About Porter Hawkins Group Listing a home during a divorce is much different than a normal home sale. The Porter Hawkins Group is equipped to handle conflict between parties and are trained to testify in court if the situation comes to that. As Certified Divorce Real Estate experts, they are neutral, third-party experts, who will market your home and negotiate between all parties to make sure they receive the maximum equity from the home sale. Connect with Porter Hawkins Website Facebook Phone: (704) 727-6768 Email: [email protected] Need legal help in your family law matter? Schedule a consultation with our team to make sure you and your future spouse are both legally protected should a divorce occur. Some key takeaways from this episode include: The CDRE® certification is extremely selective and rigorous, but it ensures that your real estate agent is a neutral, third-party representative that will guide you and your soon-to-be ex spouse through the process of selling your marital home.  Even if one partner is very hesitant to work with a CDRE®, they usually come around when they see that the agent is not favoring one party over another. The CDRE® can also be the liaison between both parties. The best time to hire a CDRE® is the second selling the home crosses your mind. Of course they can step in if it isn’t working out with an existing agent, but having their help from the beginning will make the process so much smoother. The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution.  Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action.  Connect with Modern Legal: Website Phone: 704-286-6302 Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Facebook  LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes. 

During your initial separation, the question of what to do with your marital home can be filled with emotions, financial questions, and uncertainty. In this episode, we’re joined by Ashlyn Gift, a Loan Officer with American Security Mortgage., as she shares everything you need to know about removing your spouse’s name from the mortgage, how spousal support payments affect your loan qualification, and how to make the whole process easier before you even separate. Ashlyn Gift is a Mortgage Loan Officer with Team Lending by Design at American Security Mortgage. Team LBD offers unique, personalized lending experience focusing on each and every client, tailoring their financing needs to fit their home purchasing goals. From prenuptial agreements to divorce, Modern Legal is here to protect your family at all stages of life. Schedule a consultation with our team today! Connect with Ashlyn: Website Phone - 704-658-5297 Email - [email protected] Some key takeaways from this episode include: If you’re looking to refinance or purchase a new home during your separation, it’s crucial to have a separation agreement in place signed by all parties when working with your loan officer. Without it, your new home could be considered a marital asset during your divorce. Timely alimony and child support payments are a huge piece of qualifying for a loan. If payments from your former spouse are late or partial, it can have a big impact on the loans you qualify for. In order to remove your spouse’s name from the mortgage, you need to refinance your home. This is tricky at the time of this episode release because interest rates are very high and you might have a low interest rate currently.  The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution.  Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action.  Connect with Modern Legal: Website Phone: 704-286-6302 Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Facebook  LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes.

The process of getting separated or divorced has a ripple effect across many aspects of your life, especially your finances. In this episode, we’re joined by Gabriella E. Martinelli, a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst®, Certified Divorce Specialist®, and Founder of Ever After Wealth®, to discuss why having a CDFA on your team can be a huge asset to secure your financial future during a divorce. Through her firm Ever After Wealth®, Gabriella E. Martinelli CDFA® NCPM® CDS® works with individuals and couples going through a divorce or considering a separation by providing them with education and counsel so they are able to achieve and preserve financial independence. Connect with Gabriella & Ever After Wealth: Website Instagram Ever After Wealth LinkedIn Gabriella’s LinkedIn Need legal help in your family law matter? Schedule a consultation with our team to make sure you and your future spouse are both legally protected should a divorce occur. Some key takeaways from this episode include: There is a conflict of interest between being both your financial advisor and your CDFA. Your CDFA should only be invested in you making the best financial decisions for your needs through the divorce process. A financial advisor can steer you in managing your accounts after your divorce. Don’t move financial assets around without your CDFA. Let them help you figure out the details, like what constitutes “half” of the assets, how individual accounts will be divided, costs that may be missed, and so much more. No two cases are the same. Even if your situation is very similar to someone else’s, a professional will identify the nuances from a financial and legal perspective to make sure your unique needs are met. The Legal Lounge podcast aims to dispel misinformation and downright bad legal information to empower anyone with questions about their family, their children, their finances, their marriage, and the law. As a team focused exclusively on family law matters, we aim to help you not only with the information you need, but also with the hope that your situation has a solution.  Modern Legal is a family law firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our Modern Legal team can help you navigate the legal system when the law and your family collide. We help turn confusion into confidence, helplessness into empowerment, and frustration into action.  Connect with Modern Legal: Website Phone: 704-286-6302 Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Facebook  LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and the information should not be relied upon as legal advice or for legal purposes.