Even though many property settlements are hammered out outside the courtroom, the factors judges use in dividing property affect the relative strength of each side's bargaining position.

Popular social networking sites such as Facebook are increasingly being cited in courts as contributing factors in divorces.

There is a new trend in the courts when determining child custody matters. This trend is seen in Florida's new parenting law, which includes new factors for the courts to consider.

Unfortunately, the reality in our society is that we cannot rely on the promise of a lifelong marriage. The United States currently has the highest divorce rate at about 50 percent for first marriages and almost 70 percent for remarriages. If you live in Florida, the picture becomes even more bleak.