Gregg R. Lewis, ESQ.Columbus Divorce Lawyer | Franklin County Criminal Defense Attorney2026-06-05T12:29:06Zhttps://www.grlfamilylaw.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1502258/2020/07/cropped-GregLewis-site-icon-512-32x32.pngOn Behalf of Gregg R. Lewis, ESQ.<![CDATA[Helping your child cope with your divorce in Ohio]]>https://www.grlfamilylaw.com/?p=498952026-06-05T12:29:06Z2026-06-05T12:29:06ZKeep communication open and age-appropriate
Talking to your child about the divorce is one of the most important things you can do. However, you may want to consider tailoring the conversation to their age and maturity level. Younger children might need simple explanations that reassure them you still love them, and the divorce is not their fault. On the other hand, older children and teenagers may have more questions and need more detailed information.
You should encourage your child to express their feelings without judgment. Let them know it is okay to feel upset or angry. Avoid speaking negatively about your co-parent in front of your child, as this can create additional emotional stress and put them in an uncomfortable position of feeling they need to choose sides.
Maintain consistency and routine
Children thrive on predictability, especially during times of change. Keeping regular schedules for meals, bedtime, school activities and visits with each parent can provide them a sense of stability. If your child knows what to expect, they might feel more secure and less anxious about the changes happening around them.
If possible, try to coordinate with your co-parent to maintain similar rules and expectations in both households. Establishing a sense of consistency aligns with Ohio's legal framework. State law encourages parents to create a shared parenting plan that outlines parenting time schedules, decision-making responsibilities and communication methods.
Courts generally favor arrangements where both parents remain actively involved in their children's lives, provided this serves their best interests.
Consider professional support when needed
Sometimes your child might need additional help processing their emotions about divorce. A counselor or therapist who specializes in working with children can provide valuable support. These professionals create a safe space where your child can express feelings they might not feel comfortable sharing with you.
Many schools in Ohio also offer counseling services or support groups for children dealing with family changes. Reaching out to your child's school counselor can connect you with helpful resources in your community.
In some Ohio divorce cases involving children, the court may appoint a guardian ad litem to represent the child's best interests or order a custody evaluation. These professionals assess the family situation and make recommendations to the court. Demonstrating that you have prioritized your child's emotional health and sought appropriate support can reflect positively in these evaluations.
Your actions can protect your child after separation
Navigating separation in Ohio is never easy. By staying attentive to your child's emotional needs and providing consistent support, you can help them navigate the challenges that come with their parents’ divorce. Open communication, stability and access to appropriate resources can strengthen their sense of security and help them adjust to the changes while maintaining healthy relationships with both parents.
]]>On Behalf of Gregg R. Lewis, ESQ.<![CDATA[Who gets the family business in an Ohio divorce?]]>https://www.grlfamilylaw.com/?p=498892026-05-12T08:48:49Z2026-05-12T08:48:49ZUnderstanding equitable distribution laws
Ohio operates under a principle known as equitable distribution. This means that Ohio courts must begin with the presumption that an equal (50/50) division of marital property is the most appropriate starting point. A judge only moves away from an equal split toward a "fair but unequal" distribution if it is proven that an equal split would be unfair (inequitable).
To make this determination, the court reviews several mandatory factors, including how long the marriage lasted, the total assets and liabilities of each spouse, and the specific tax consequences that will result from dividing the property.
Distinguishing marital from separate assets
The first step in any property division is determining whether the business is marital or separate property. Generally, courts treat any business started after the wedding date as marital property. If you owned the business before the marriage, courts typically categorize it as separate property.
However, the lines could blur if you used marital funds for business expenses or if the company grew in value due to active efforts during the marriage. In these cases, the active appreciation in value may be subject to division.
Appraising the value of your company
Before a business can be divided, its monetary worth must be established. This often involves hiring a professional appraiser to conduct a business valuation.
There are several methods for determining this figure, such as examining the company's net assets, historical earnings or comparable sales in the industry. Accurate records are essential during this phase, as the court requires a clear picture of the company's financial health to make an informed decision.
Resolving business interests fairly
Once a value is assigned, there are several ways to handle the business interest:
Asset offsetting and retention: Rather than selling the company and splitting the cash, one spouse might keep the entire business. To make this fair, one spouse gives up their claim to other valuable property like the family home or a retirement fund, which goes to the other spouse instead.
Liquidation and sale: The business might be sold and the proceeds divided between both parties according to the court’s distribution order.
Continued joint ownership: In rare cases, former spouses may remain co-owners. This path requires a high degree of cooperation and a robust, newly drafted operating agreement to define roles and prevent future legal disputes.
Ultimately, the goal is to select a path that meets Ohio’s equitable standards while ensuring the business remains a viable and stable asset for years to come.
Choosing strategic next steps
Every family business is unique, and the legal path forward depends on specific goals and the complexities of the assets involved. While going through the changes, having a clear understanding of rights under Ohio law is a strong asset.
Taking the time to gather documentation and consult with professionals can provide the clarity needed to reach a resolution that respects both past hard work and future stability.]]>On Behalf of Gregg R. Lewis, ESQ.<![CDATA[Dividing stock options and restricted stock units in an Ohio divorce]]>https://www.grlfamilylaw.com/?p=498612026-04-24T09:18:18Z2026-04-24T09:18:18ZMany people receive stock options or restricted stock units as part of their compensation package. These assets can be worth significant amounts of money but dividing them in divorce gets complicated. Ohio courts generally treat stock options and RSUs as marital property if you earned them during the marriage. Understanding how to value and split these assets helps protect your financial interests.
How Ohio treats stock options and RSUs in divorce
Ohio follows equitable distribution, meaning courts divide assets fairly but not always equally. Therefore, the law considers several factors when determining whether stock compensation counts as marital property. Among these are:
Vesting schedules: Ohio courts look at when you earned the stock and when it vests to decide which portion belongs to the marriage and which portion remains separate property.
Work performed: Courts may consider stock options as payment for work you did during the marriage even if they vest after your divorce becomes final.
Valuation timing: The value of unvested stock can change dramatically between your divorce filing and when the stock actually vests, which creates challenges for fair division.
Tax consequences: Exercising stock options or selling RSUs triggers income taxes and sometimes additional penalties that reduce the actual value you receive.
Dividing these assets fairly requires understanding both when you earned them and what they will actually be worth after taxes.
Methods for dividing stock compensation
Ohio couples and courts use different approaches to split stock options and RSUs depending on the specific situation.
Cash out and split the current value immediately if the stock has already vested
Agree to divide the stock later when it vests or when you exercise the options
Trade stock compensation for other marital assets of equal value like home equity or retirement accounts
Consider how each method affects your tax burden and net proceeds
Someone familiar with Ohio divorce law and complex asset valuation might help you understand which division method protects your interests and minimizes your tax liability.Stock options and RSUs require careful handling in Ohio divorce cases. How you time the division and account for taxes significantly affects the actual amount you walk away with after your divorce.]]>On Behalf of Gregg R. Lewis, ESQ.<![CDATA[Do disability benefits count towards my spousal support payments?]]>https://www.grlfamilylaw.com/?p=498602026-04-14T16:20:21Z2026-04-14T16:20:21ZGoing through a divorce is hard enough. Doing it while living on a fixed disability income adds another layer of stress. Your benefits may feel like a lifeline, but they can also factor into what the court decides you owe or receive.
So, does Ohio law count your disability benefits as income when calculating spousal support? The answer can directly affect your financial future and it starts with understanding how Ohio courts approach income.
Why do Ohio courts examine all income sources?
Ohio courts usually look at all potential income streams when they determine spousal support. Their goal is to balance what the paying spouse can reasonably afford with what the receiving spouse actually needs. Because of this, the court will closely review every source of money you receive, including disability benefits. Thus, understanding this broad approach helps explain why the type of benefits you receive matters so much.
Which disability benefits count as income?
With the court's wide-reaching review in mind, you should know which benefits count as income. Ohio courts generally count both Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and private disability insurance benefits as income for the paying spouse. If you receive these benefits and are responsible for paying support, the court will factor them into its calculation of what you can afford.On the other hand, if you are the spouse receiving support, the rules work differently. The court considers your disability income as part of your financial need, which can lower the support amount you receive. Either way, disability benefits play a clear role in the court's decision. However, not every type of benefit works the same way.
A key exception you should know about
Beyond SSDI and private disability benefits, there is one important distinction worth knowing. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a need-based program that usually differs from insurance-based benefits like SSDI. Because of this, Ohio courts often do not count SSI as income when determining spousal support. If SSI is your primary source of income, this exception can work in your favor.
Understanding your income can protect your future
Knowing how Ohio courts treat your disability income is an important step toward protecting your financial stability. The rules often vary depending on the type of benefits you receive and your role in the support arrangement. That is why understanding which income sources factor into your support calculation puts you in a better position to make sound decisions moving forward.]]>On Behalf of Gregg R. Lewis, ESQ.<![CDATA[How far in advance should you plan divorce timelines?]]>https://www.grlfamilylaw.com/?p=498502026-03-03T15:59:29Z2026-03-03T15:59:29ZFinancial factors that affect your filing date
When you file for divorce can greatly impact your finances. Think about these important timing factors:
Tax situation: Filing before December 31 changes how you file taxes for the whole year
Stock options: Waiting until after you receive company stocks might help your financial position
Bonus timing: Filing after getting your yearly bonus makes dividing assets simpler
Health insurance: Your filing date affects how long you keep family health coverage
Yearly finances: Waiting for a complete calendar year makes paperwork easier
Good timing on these factors could mean keeping thousands more dollars during your divorce.
How your work schedule affects divorce timing
Your job schedule creates natural windows for handling divorce. Try to file when you're between big projects, not during major deadlines or launches.
Working from home might make it easier to attend divorce meetings without taking obvious time off. Many companies slow down at year-end, giving you more emotional energy to handle divorce matters.
Planning around your children's school year
Kids need stability during divorce. Starting the process during summer break gives children time to adjust before school starts again.
Filing mid-school year adds stress during important academic times. School holidays offer good transition periods for trying new custody arrangements without missing school.
Waiting for major life transitions
Big life changes affect divorce timing too. It might make sense to wait until after you move to a new home to establish residency.
Holding off until after a job change clarifies your financial situation. Sometimes, waiting until after planned medical procedures makes better sense for health insurance reasons.
The value of strategic timing
Planning your divorce timing protects your money and mental health. Taking time to prepare for the separation allows you to make clearer decisions rather than choices driven by raw emotions.
Rushing without preparation often leads to bad settlements and preventable problems. Most people benefit from six to twelve months of planning before filing. Good timing turns divorce from a crisis into a managed change that protects your family, career and finances.]]>On Behalf of Gregg R. Lewis, ESQ.<![CDATA[Identifying hidden assets in high net worth divorce cases]]>https://www.grlfamilylaw.com/?p=498452026-05-05T19:57:39Z2026-02-15T10:28:35ZIdentifying concealment patterns and financial red flags
You may focus on patterns instead of one event. The following changes may indicate that a closer review of financial records and disclosures is necessary:
Income drops despite steady business activity
New companies or accounts created near separation
Transfers labeled as loans without clear support
Missing statements or gaps in records
Spending levels that exceed reported income
These signs may not prove hidden assets. Still, repeated patterns may suggest that more review could help clarify financial activity over time and context.
Applying Ohio discovery methods and forensic asset tracing
You can use discovery tools to gather financial information. Courts often require sworn financial disclosures. You can request tax returns, bank records or business files. Subpoenas can help you obtain information from third parties.
A forensic accountant can review transactions, compare records and trace money flow to look for inconsistencies. If a court finds financial misconduct, it may adjust property division.
Assessing financial questions that may warrant further attention
You might now have a clearer sense of where questions could exist within the financial picture. At this stage, you can focus on organizing what stands out, noting gaps or inconsistencies and deciding which areas deserve closer attention.
Small observations can help shape productive discussions with professionals involved in your case. Taking time to clarify what feels uncertain may help you move forward with greater awareness during an Ohio high net worth divorce.
Contact a trusted family law firm in Ohio today
If you need skilled legal representation for your divorce case in Columbus, our attorney has almost 30 years of experience assisting individuals and families in managing their family law concerns with ease and peace of mind. To schedule a free initial consultation with our lawyer, call our German Village office at [nap_phone id="LOCAL-CT-NUMBER-3"] or send us an email through our contact form.]]>On Behalf of Gregg R. Lewis, ESQ.<![CDATA[How can parents who share custody handle the holidays?]]>https://www.grlfamilylaw.com/?p=498442026-02-03T11:41:09Z2026-02-03T11:41:09ZA standard annual schedule
When parents come from different cultures, they may have different priorities regarding the holidays that they spend with their children. In such cases, it may be possible for each parent to have the children on the days that matter the most to their culture or religion every year, allowing for a relatively amicable arrangement.
An alternating schedule
The every-other-holiday approach is a common one. Many parents share the same religions and cultural backgrounds. Therefore, they generally want to see the children on the same days each year. An alternating schedule allows one parent to spend every other holiday with the children. They see their children for some of the major holidays each year and get to enjoy all of the major holidays every other year.
A split schedule
Separated parents can often share the actual holiday so that they can both celebrate with the children. If they live close enough to make a midday custody exchange feasible, a split schedule where the children spend part of the day with one parent and the remainder with the other can be a relatively fair arrangement. Occasionally, parents can even negotiate terms where they share the holidays and the children's birthdays by maintaining joint celebrations.
There are various ways to modify these basic arrangements so that they work for families in all kinds of situations. Parents may need to carefully consider their schedules, family traditions and household dynamics to create workable parenting plans. And, understanding how other families share parenting time can make it easier for adults to find solutions that may work for their families as well.]]>On Behalf of Gregg R. Lewis, ESQ.<![CDATA[Does moving out constitute abandonment during divorce?]]>https://www.grlfamilylaw.com/?p=498392026-05-06T08:22:54Z2026-01-09T14:03:28ZAbandonment and moving out are different
Ohio recognizes no-fault divorce filings and fault-based divorce filings. Abandonment is one of the fault-based grounds for divorce. Claims of abandonment typically require a situation where one spouse leaves the other for a year or longer and fails to fulfill their obligations to the family, often without any rational explanation. Moving out during a divorce generally does not constitute abandonment. The marital relationship is already on the decline, and the desire for calm and stability during the divorce inspires the relocation.
Does moving out affect equity rights?
Spouses have a shared interest in home equity due to their contributions toward its maintenance. They use marital income to make mortgage payments and often perform physical labor to maintain and improve the home.
Even if one spouse agrees that they cannot live in the home temporarily during divorce, leaving does not automatically eliminate their interest in the property. They still have the right to pursue their fair share of equity or to request possession of the home and move back in after the divorce. Spouses may need to continue contributing toward household expenses to protect their interest in home equity in many cases.
Spouses who feel compelled to leave their marital home due to tensions or conflict may need to sit down with a family law attorney and discuss their concerns. Understanding the rules that apply to the division of home equity and what constitutes marital abandonment can make it easier for divorcing spouses to make rational decisions during divorce.
Reach out to a trusted family law firm today
You do not have to face this journey on your own. If you need legal support for your divorce case in Columbus, our skilled attorney has almost 30 years of experience helping individuals and families in Columbus manage their family law concerns with confidence. To schedule a free initial consultation with our lawyer, call our German Village office at [nap_phone id="LOCAL-CT-NUMBER-3"] or send us an email through our contact form.]]>On Behalf of Gregg R. Lewis, ESQ.<![CDATA[How to prepare for a child custody evaluation in Ohio]]>https://www.grlfamilylaw.com/?p=498382026-05-06T08:20:39Z2025-12-26T19:01:01ZA child custody evaluation can feel stressful when you don't know what to expect. In Ohio, courts use these evaluations to better understand your family and your child’s needs. Preparation helps you present yourself clearly and stay focused on your child.
Understand the purpose of the evaluation
The court orders a custody evaluation to gather information about parenting abilities and the child’s well-being. An evaluator may review records, conduct interviews and observe interactions. The goal centers on the child’s best interests, not on proving one parent right or wrong. Keeping that focus can shape how you respond throughout the process.
Organize documents and information early
You should gather records that show your involvement in your child’s life. School records, medical information and schedules help show consistency and responsibility. Keep documents organized and easy to explain. This preparation allows you to answer questions clearly and avoid confusion during meetings.
Communicate thoughtfully during interviews
Evaluators often ask about daily routines, discipline and co-parenting communication. Answer questions honestly and stay calm, even when topics feel uncomfortable. Speak directly and avoid exaggeration. Clear communication shows maturity and respect for the process.
Demonstrate positive parenting habits
Evaluators pay attention to how you interact with your child. Be attentive, patient and supportive during observations. Follow your usual routines so interactions feel natural. Consistency helps the evaluator understand how your household functions on a regular basis.
Maintain appropriate behavior outside meetings
Your actions outside the evaluation can still matter. Keep communication with the other parent respectful and child-focused. Avoid discussing the case with your child or involving them in disputes. Stable behavior supports the court’s review of your parenting environment.
Prepare emotionally and stay child-focused
Custody evaluations can bring up strong emotions. You should plan healthy ways to manage stress, such as rest and support from trusted adults. Keeping your child’s needs at the center of every decision helps you stay grounded. That focus can make the process feel more manageable.
What preparation can do for your case
Preparation allows you to approach a custody evaluation with confidence and clarity. When you understand expectations and stay organized, you present a complete picture of your parenting. Courts rely on these evaluations to make informed decisions that support a child’s well-being.
Reach out to [nap_names id="FIRM-NAME-2"], today
If you need caring counsel and legal guidance for your child custody case, our attorney has almost 30 years of experience representing individuals and families in Columbus, helping them manage their family law concerns with confidence and ease. To schedule a free initial consultation at our firm, call our German Village office at [nap_phone id="LOCAL-CT-NUMBER-3"] or send us a query through our contact form.]]>On Behalf of Gregg R. Lewis, ESQ.<![CDATA[This document reduces divorce retirement savings setbacks]]>https://www.grlfamilylaw.com/?p=498252025-12-08T14:58:04Z2025-12-08T14:58:04ZAvoiding penalties and taxes is possible
Certain retirement savings accounts offer income tax incentives. People make pre-tax contributions to 401(k)s and similar accounts. They diminish their annual income, which reduces their income tax obligations. They then pay taxes on their retirement savings when they withdraw funds later in life.
Premature withdrawals from tax-deferred retirement savings accounts can push people into higher tax brackets, leaving them with income tax obligations. Additionally, there is a 10% penalty imposed for early withdrawals that further exacerbates the financial impact of dividing a retirement savings account.
Given how frequently spouses must address retirement savings during divorce proceedings, there is a procedure in place to help people limit their losses. Once there is a final property division decree, an attorney can draft a qualified domestic relations order (QDRO).
Each spouse must sign the document. The courts must review it to ensure it aligns with the property division order. After court approval, the spouses can then submit the QDRO to the financial professional managing the account.
The QDRO instructs the financial professional to move a percentage of the total account balance into a new account in the name of the other spouse. So long as neither spouse makes a large withdrawal after submitting the QDRO and splitting the funds, they can avoid the penalty and tax consequences completely.
Learning more about the unique tools that help people divide their property can be beneficial for those worried about their finances. It is possible to divide retirement savings without tax consequences and large penalties if spouses use the right paperwork.]]>