Frank A. Louis, a partner in the firm’s Family Law Department, will be a panelist for a presentation on “Death and Divorce” at the New Jersey State Bar Association’s 2023 Annual Meeting and Convention. The program, cosponsored by the Family Law Section, is scheduled for Wednesday, May 17 from 1:45pm – 3:25pm in Salon C of the Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa in Atlantic City.

This program will address the very difficult circumstances surrounding a death in divorce. The speakers will examine the conflict between the elective share and equitable distribution and the pending legislation to fix the black hole. They will also delve into the definition of “psychological parent,” and discuss how to address a change in custody when the custodial parent dies. They will also look at financial issues, such as what happens if the ex-spouse does not have the life insurance required per the settlement agreement upon their death, whether to charge against the estate for the surviving former spouse and children, and what to do if assets were not all transferred prior to death. Finally, they will discuss language to put in an agreement in the event of death.

Mr. Louis has over 45 years of extensive experience in negotiating and litigating economically complex divorce cases. He has been broadly recognized by his peers as a preeminent member of the New Jersey family law bar. Mr. Louis represents clients in all aspects of divorce including asset distribution, child support and alimony, with the goal of achieving a negotiated result but, when required, a fair result after trial. His emphasis is on problem-solving and attaining beneficial outcomes by using creative approaches to achieve a client's goals. He is the co-author of the treatise New Jersey Family Law Volume II: Divorce, Alimony & Property Division.                                             

Information about the 2023 Annual Meeting and Convention is available on the NJSBA website.