Family Law

Family law in Hawaii has some unique elements that set it apart from other states. If you live in the islands or plan to move there, understanding these differences can help you make more informed decisions. Whether it involves divorce, custody, or property division,...

Marriage can be a wonderful journey, but sometimes couples hit a rough patch and need time apart. Legal separation can be a viable option in these situations. Legal separation can offer couples a structured way to live separately from each other while resolving...

Child custody arrangements can be complex and often require modifications as circumstances change. In this blog post, we will explore why parents seek modifications to child custody arrangements and provide valuable insights into the process. At Coates Frey & Hackett, AAL LLLC, we understand the challenges parents face, and our experienced team is here to guide you through this process.…

Military divorce in Hawaii presents unique challenges and considerations that set it apart from traditional divorces. From jurisdictional issues to the division of military benefits, understanding these differences is essential for a smooth and fair resolution. This blog post will delve into the intricacies of military divorce in Hawaii, providing you with tangible tips to navigate this complex process. Understanding…

Grandparent visitation rights can be a complex and emotionally charged topic in family law. As a grandparent, it is important to understand your rights and options when maintaining a relationship with your grandchildren. In this blog post, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to grandparent visitation rights in Hawaii, offering practical tips and insights to navigate this legal…

Divorce is a challenging experience that can leave lasting emotional scars. However, some couples may find that they want to reconcile after the divorce is finalized. Reconciliation after divorce is possible, but it requires a lot of effort and commitment from both parties. If you’re considering reconciling with your ex-spouse, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:…

Legal separation is an option for couples who are considering divorce but want to live separately and divide their assets without actually ending their marriage. In Hawaii, there are specific grounds for seeking a legal separation that must be met. Here’s what you need to know about legal separation in Hawaii. 1. Incompatibility Incompatibility is the most common ground for…

Are you getting married soon? Congratulations! It’s an exciting time filled with love and hope for the future. But before you walk down the aisle, there’s one crucial legal document you may want to consider: a prenuptial (prenup) agreement. A prenup can help protect your assets and clarify financial expectations, making it an essential tool for many couples. However, there…

If you and your spouse are considering separating, you may wonder if you should pursue a full divorce or a legal separation. This blog post will explore the advantages of legal separation in Hawaii and explain why some couples choose this route instead of getting divorced. What Is Legal Separation? Legal separation is a court-ordered arrangement that allows couples to…

In Hawaii, a married couple with children is automatically considered parents to the child biologically and legally. If the couple decides to separate, they will need to discuss child support using a specific formula that Hawaii uses to calculate child support payments. For them, the process will be relatively straightforward. When two people have a child and are not married…