06/11/2026
How to settle probate and testamentary proceedings. The importance of last will and testament and the benefits of a living will. Ask our legal team.
Philippine lawyers and New York attorneys serving the community.
06/11/2026
How to settle probate and testamentary proceedings. The importance of last will and testament and the benefits of a living will. Ask our legal team.
05/29/2026
Consultation for the day:
- “A married man is a reformed man and
A married woman is a transformed woman"-.
In most jurisdictions, a marriage can legally end even if only one partner wants a divorce. If one spouse is determined to leave, the process typically proceeds as a contested divorce, as a judge generally will not force two people to remain married.
It is important to understand the following legal realities regarding this process:
- One party can initiate the end of the marriage: While it takes two to marry, it only takes one to divorce.
- Refusing to sign is not a barrier: Declining to sign divorce papers will not stop the proceedings; it only serves to prolong the process and INCREASE legal costs.
- Risk of default judgments: If you ignore divorce filings, a judge can grant a "default" divorce. This allows the court to make final decisions regarding your assets and children without your input.
While you cannot force a spouse to stay married, you do have the right to negotiate the terms of the divorce, request a legal separation, or seek to save the relationship through other means.
-Atty. Melody Moya-Manuel-
05/14/2026
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Employment Petition / Green Card guaranteed by Atty. Rommel Manuel and Atty. Melody Moya-Manuel
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04/24/2026
Preparation of Last Will and Testament
Notarization of Special Power of Attorney
Petition/Application for the Settlement of Estate NJ and in the Philippines