FH LawFH Law2026-06-02T20:11:25Zhttps://www.farleyandhopper.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1304150/2025/05/cropped-FH-favicon-32x32.jpgOn Behalf of The Law Offices of Farley & Hopper, PLLC (dba FH Law)<![CDATA[Communication can significantly impact a divorce]]>https://www.farleyandhopper.com/?p=465292026-06-01T17:13:59Z2026-06-01T17:13:59ZThe decision to end a marriage is one that often comes with considerable tension between spouses. If you’re in this position, you may realize that the tension makes communication difficult or impossible. Even though it won’t be easy, being able to communicate during the divorce can be beneficial for both sides. As you go through the divorce process, focus only on what has to be decided to end the marriage. Speaking about the conflicts that led to the divorce will almost certainly delay the divorce and make the communication more difficult.
Treat the divorce like a business transaction
It’s not productive to allow emotions to rule you when you’re going through a divorce. Keep the emotional aspects of situations out of the conversation. Think of each decision as a business transaction so you can keep your focus only on the matter at hand.
Choose the proper communication method
Written communication might be useful in these cases because it creates a record of what was said. That’s beneficial because it reduces the chance of misunderstandings throughout the process. Additionally, you will have a chance to review what your ex said and read over your reply before you send it, which may prevent you from sending out a message that could be taken the wrong way.
Take a step back when needed
Some conversations become contentious despite your best efforts. Taking a step back to evaluate the situation and calm down can be beneficial in these cases. This gives you a chance to think about what resolution will be in your best interest. Because decisions related to divorce can affect you now and into the future, it’s likely best to have someone on your side who can assist you with learning the options and deciding how to proceed.
]]>On Behalf of The Law Offices of Farley & Hopper, PLLC (dba FH Law)<![CDATA[Older couples have a rising divorce rate]]>https://www.farleyandhopper.com/?p=465232026-05-17T22:29:34Z2026-05-17T22:29:34ZWhile recent studies have found that younger couples have a declining divorce rate in the United States, the opposite trend is true for older couples. Much of the divide seems to happen at age 45. Couples under this age limit have seen their divorce rate go down in recent years, but the trend has generally been an increase in divorce cases for couples over 45.
In some ways, this is most pronounced for couples who are 65 years old and older. Looking at statistics going back to the 1990s, researchers found that this age group has seen their divorce rate triple. This is in stark contrast to the dropping divorce rates for younger Americans.
Empty-nest divorces
A similar trend is that researchers have found becoming empty nesters sometimes leads to divorce. Couples have stayed together for decades and raised children together, but when that last child moves out, the parents decide to end their marriage.There are many potential reasons why this happens. Parenting could mask troubles in their own relationship that become clear after they become empty nesters, for instance. Discussions about what their future looks like could show that both people have very different ideas of what they want. In some cases, parents intentionally wait until their children move out to file for a divorce, even if they knew they wanted to do so years earlier.Age can have an impact on divorce cases, especially when looking at dividing financial assets, real estate and retirement assets. It is very important for couples in this age bracket to know what legal options they have.
]]>On Behalf of The Law Offices of Farley & Hopper, PLLC (dba FH Law)<![CDATA[Who pays the bill in a Kentucky commercial vehicle crash?]]>https://www.farleyandhopper.com/?p=465222026-05-13T13:11:30Z2026-05-13T13:11:30ZCommercial vehicle accidents often lead to much higher medical bills than a regular car crash. If you recently got into one, you may feel lost trying to figure out who is responsible for your costs. Fortunately, you have several ways to recover the compensation you deserve and knowing what they are can help put your mind at ease.
Your first line of financial protection
Knowing where your money can come from is the first step to getting back on your feet. You have up to four potential sources available to you:
Commercial vehicle liability insurance: If your bills go beyond your PIP limits, you can seek compensation from the commercial vehicle's liability insurance policy.
At-fault parties: Commercial vehicle accidents often involve multiple responsible parties, which can open the door to higher compensation than a typical car accident.
Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UIM): If the commercial truck's insurance falls short, your own UIM coverage may help pick up the rest.
Each of these works differently, but together they give you a solid safety net. As you will see in the next section, knowing who is responsible for the crash is just as important as knowing where the money comes from.
More than one party may share responsibility
Unlike a regular car accident, commercial vehicle crashes can involve several parties who share legal responsibility. This is good news for you, because more responsible parties can mean more funds to help cover your losses. Here are the parties you may be able to hold accountable:
The driver: The driver is directly liable for careless actions behind the wheel, such as fatigue, distraction or speeding.
The trucking or commercial company: An employer is usually legally responsible for what its driver does while on the job.
The cargo loading company: If the loading crew failed to secure cargo properly and it contributed to the crash, you may hold that company responsible.
The maintenance company: If poor vehicle upkeep, such as brake failure, led to the accident, you may hold the maintenance provider accountable.
The vehicle manufacturer: If a faulty part caused or worsened the crash, the manufacturer may bear responsibility.
Hence, finding every responsible party gives your case a better chance at full compensation.
Don’t leave your compensation on the table
Trucking companies usually carry massive insurance policies, but those policies exist to protect the company, not you. Therefore, knowing your rights and understanding who to hold responsible are the most important steps you can take after a crash. The money you need for your medical bills, lost wages and recovery may be closer than you think. You simply need to know where to look and how to ask for what is fair.]]>by The Law Offices of Farley & Hopper, PLLC (dba FH Law)<![CDATA[Step-by-step guide to car accident claims in Kentucky]]>https://www.farleyandhopper.com/?p=465212026-05-07T07:48:22Z2026-05-07T07:48:22ZUnderstanding Kentucky’s no-fault system
Kentucky uses a “choice no-fault” insurance system for car accident claims. A person’s own insurance pays for initial medical expenses and a portion of lost wages through Personal Injury Protection (PIP), which is typically at least $10,000 per person.
Understanding Kentucky’s filing deadlines and lawsuit eligibility
An individual has two years to file a personal injury lawsuit. The clock usually starts on the date of the accident or the last PIP payment, depending on the situation. Acting within this time helps protect the right to compensation. Even under the no-fault system, a person can still file a lawsuit if certain conditions apply. In Kentucky, this applies when:
Medical expenses exceed $1,000, or
The accident causes permanent disfigurement, loss of bodily function or serious fractures
Understanding these timelines and conditions helps ensure timely action and supports the ability to seek fair compensation under Kentucky law.
Steps to follow after a car accident in Kentucky
The immediate actions to take after an accident are as follows:
Seek medical attention: Do not delay a medical evaluation after the accident. A formal medical record plays a key role in making insurance claims.
Call the police: Report the accident so there is an official record of what happened.
Gather evidence: Take photos, collect witness contact information, and record details from the scene.
Notify your insurer: Report the crash quickly to start your PIP claim process.
Keep records: Save medical bills, repair costs and proof of lost wages.
Setting the foundation for a successful claim
Navigating a car accident claim in Kentucky requires understanding the no-fault system and acting within deadlines. Strong evidence helps protect the right to compensation.
Handling a claim alone can be difficult. Seeking legal help can help to evaluate the options, communicate with insurers and pursue compensation for your injuries and losses.]]>On Behalf of The Law Offices of Farley & Hopper, PLLC (dba FH Law)<![CDATA[How Kentucky’s joint custody presumption may affect move-aways]]>https://www.farleyandhopper.com/?p=465192026-05-02T12:54:42Z2026-05-02T12:54:42ZThe courts now have more to review
If parents can agree on terms for adjusting their custody order due to a relocation, they have the authority to make those decisions and pursue an uncontested custody modification. However, disputes about relocations are common, as they often reduce how much parenting time the other adult in the family has.
As such, the matter may go to court, and a judge may need to review the situation carefully. Currently, the presumption of joint custody and equal parenting time under the law can increase the hurdles a parent proposing a contested relocation must overcome.
The courts must consider how the move may affect the overall division of parenting time. They also need to determine whether there has truly been a material change in circumstances that warrants the move-away request and the adjustment of the overall allocation of parenting time.
Judges settling disputes about custody matters must consider the best interests of the children. Under current standards, they must factor in the child's school stability, travel logistics and how well each parent has previously facilitated contact with the other.
Parents often need to collect documentation about the reason for the move, such as a new job opportunity, as well as evidence of how the move could be beneficial for the children. They may need to sit down and discuss the matter with an experienced family law attorney who handles parental relocation cases before taking any major steps, such as signing a lease, listing a home for sale or accepting a job in another state.
Parents in Louisville, Lexington and across Northern Kentucky may need help when proposing a relocation to a co-parent. Preparing carefully for a relocation request can increase a parent’s chances of success and help them overcome the presumption of even parenting time that could limit their ability to rebuild their life after a divorce.]]>On Behalf of The Law Offices of Farley & Hopper, PLLC (dba FH Law)<![CDATA[Understanding divorce from bed and board in Kentucky]]>https://www.farleyandhopper.com/?p=465182026-04-27T11:00:33Z2026-04-27T11:00:33ZWhat divorce from bed and board is
A divorce from bed and board does not dissolve your marriage, it simply alters your spousal responsibilities and living arrangements. You can both create rules around finances and parenting time while maintaining certain benefits from staying married. This includes health insurance coverage and reduced taxes. You may find this option helpful if you need time to find out if divorce is the right path for your future.
Requirements for submitting a petition
Before filing for a divorce from bed and board, you or your spouse must have been a resident of Kentucky or be stationed there for at least 180 days. Moreover, the law requires you to live apart for at least 60 days before submitting the petition. If you are still living in the same home, you must show you have not been living as a married couple for those 60 days.
How the process works
The process begins with filing a petition for legal separation in the circuit court of the county where you both reside. The request must state that your marriage is irreparably broken and that you have a mutual desire to live separately.
Much like a full divorce, you need to reach agreements on child custody and support, spousal maintenance and property division. After reviewing the case, the judge will issue an order that binds both you and your spouse to the terms.
If you both decide to reconcile, you can end the separation agreement and continue your marriage. Otherwise, you can convert the decree into a final divorce after waiting at least one year. A legal professional can help you weigh your options when you are ready to move forward.
Reflecting on the future
Living apart does not necessarily mean ending your marriage. A divorce from bed and board can give you and your spouse ample space and time to figure out your next steps. Separating may be the best decision you can make now while preparing for the impact of your final decisions later.
]]>On Behalf of The Law Offices of Farley & Hopper, PLLC (dba FH Law)<![CDATA[What should I do if my spouse empties our bank account during divorce?]]>https://www.farleyandhopper.com/?p=465162026-04-17T14:19:32Z2026-04-17T14:19:32ZYou check your bank account during divorce proceedings and discover the balance shows zero. Your spouse withdrew all the money without your knowledge or consent. This situation creates immediate financial stress and leaves you wondering how you will pay bills or afford basic necessities. Kentucky law provides ways to address this problem and hold your spouse accountable.
Immediate steps you can take
Acting quickly helps protect your interests when your spouse drains joint accounts. You have several options to address the emergency:
Document everything: Print bank statements, withdrawal records and any communications about the missing money to create a clear paper trail of what happened.
File for emergency relief: Kentucky courts can issue temporary orders that require your spouse to return funds or provide financial support while the divorce moves forward.
Request a restraining order: Courts may prohibit both spouses from transferring, hiding or spending marital assets without agreement or court approval.
Open a separate account: Move any remaining funds you control into an account in only your name to prevent further unauthorized withdrawals.
Track the money: Try to find out where the withdrawn funds went since courts will want to know if your spouse spent it, hid it or transferred it somewhere else.
Kentucky judges take financial misconduct seriously during divorce cases. Your spouse's actions might qualify as dissipation of marital assets.
How courts handle asset dissipation
Dissipation happens when one spouse wastes or hides marital property to keep it away from the other spouse. Kentucky law requires courts to divide marital property fairly. If one spouse tries to waste shared property, court can punish this behavior when dividing assets. Judges might award you a larger share of remaining property to make up for the money your spouse took. Courts can also order your spouse to reimburse you for withdrawn funds if they cannot show the money went toward legitimate marital expenses.The timing matters because you need to act while the court still has authority over your case. Legal guidance can help you file the right motions quickly and build a strong case showing what your spouse did with the missing money.]]>On Behalf of The Law Offices of Farley & Hopper, PLLC (dba FH Law)<![CDATA[Common mistakes that can reduce your car accident settlement]]>https://www.farleyandhopper.com/?p=465152026-04-06T09:25:04Z2026-04-06T09:25:04ZNot documenting the accident properly
Clear documentation supports every part of your case. Without it, you may struggle to show what happened or how the crash affected you. To ensure a full account of the incident, you need to:
Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage and road conditions
Collect the names and contact information of witnesses
File a police report and request a copy
Keep records of medical visits, expenses and missed work
Failure to secure strong evidence gives insurance companies room to question your claim. They may argue that the collision was less severe or that your injuries are unrelated.
Admitting fault or speaking too freely
Insurers often ask leading questions or request recorded statements soon after the crash. What you say to them matters. A simple apology or casual remark can be interpreted as an admission of fault, and insurance adjusters may use your words to devalue or deny your claim.
Kentucky follows a comparative fault rule. If you accept even partial blame, your compensation may decrease. For example, if you are 20% at fault, your recovery decreases by that same percentage. It is best to avoid discussing fault at the scene or with insurers and signing documents or giving recorded statements without legal advice.
Delaying medical treatment or legal action
The timing of a medical evaluation is critical; any delay may prompt insurers to question whether your injuries were a result of the accident. Prompt treatment creates a clear record of your condition.
Under Kentucky law, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a claim. Missing the deadline will prevent you from recovering compensation. Acting early helps preserve both medical evidence and your legal rights.
Focus on consistency and follow-through
It is important to be consistent as your claim moves forward. Keep your records organized, follow through with appointments and track any changes in your condition or expenses. Staying attentive and deliberate can help you avoid a lower settlement and keep your physical and financial recovery on track.]]>On Behalf of The Law Offices of Farley & Hopper, PLLC (dba FH Law)<![CDATA[What do courts consider when making a custody order in Kentucky?]]>https://www.farleyandhopper.com/?p=465122026-03-11T08:29:06Z2026-03-11T08:29:06ZWhich factors can potentially affect a custody order?
When determining parental decision-making and parenting time, Kentucky courts prioritize your child's safety and welfare above all else. There are numerous elements that courts consider, and judges examine each case individually.
However, judges typically begin with the presumption of joint custody and equal parenting time unless evidence shows a different plan would better serve the child. With this in mind, key factors that determine how courts make custody orders often include:
What each parent wants for custody
What the child wants, if they are mature enough to have a preference
Your child's relationship with each parent, their siblings and other important people
Your child's adjustment to their home, school and community
The mental and physical health of people in the household
Signs of domestic violence or abuse
Reports and records from professionals involved with your child
The willingness of each parent to cooperate and take care of their child
Courts use these factors to set up a custody plan that gives children a stable, healthy home. By evaluating your child’s living conditions and their lifestyle before the divorce, the court aims to support arrangements that best promote the child's long-term development.
Securing your child’s future
Knowing these rules helps parents handle custody cases more confidently. Kentucky's legal framework aims to create a stable and safe environment that serves a child’s best interests. This includes protection from conflict and abuse.
Staying informed and prioritizing your child's needs can help you move forward and work toward a stable, supportive future. With the right preparation and guidance, you can advocate for an arrangement that protects your child’s well-being and strengthens your role in their life.
]]>On Behalf of The Law Offices of Farley & Hopper, PLLC (dba FH Law)<![CDATA[Is my spouse hiding assets in divorce?]]>https://www.farleyandhopper.com/?p=465022026-03-04T14:20:08Z2026-03-05T17:04:49ZIt is normal to worry that your spouse has not disclosed everything during divorce. Kentucky courts require full financial disclosure to divide marital property fairly, but not everyone complies. When crucial information stays hidden, your share of assets can shrink without you realizing it.
Financial red flags that suggest asset concealment
Kentucky courts treat concealment of assets as fraud, but some individuals still do it. Some warning signs appear early and paying close attention can help you flag them:
New accounts you did not know about
Large withdrawals or transfers to friends or relatives
Delayed bonuses or sudden drops in reported income
Business payments diverted for personal use
When these patterns appear, the court may question credibility. However, proving the concealment requires clear evidence and that is the challenging part.
How do you uncover hidden assets?
Courts let lawyers use formal discovery to dig up financial records. Attorneys can issue subpoenas to force document production, take depositions (sworn interviews) and send written questions to trace income and property.For complicated cases, forensic accountants dig through tax returns, business records and electronic transfers to follow the money. If a spouse hides assets and they later surface, a judge can reopen the property division and impose penalties. However, the process will take extra time and cost more to undo the damage.
How to protect your financial rights in divorce
Divorce already brings emotional strain, and financial uncertainty makes it worse. It may be helpful to learn how disclosure works and how courts treat concealment so you can protect your assets. If you are unsure how the process works, consider reaching out to a skilled family law attorney who can help you gather documents, demand answers and present proof to the court. Do not let deceit shape your fresh start — begin the next chapter on honest, secure footing.]]>