July 2025 - Issue 1

Message From the Editor

Navigating U.S. Passport Applications for Minors Under 16: A Guide for Family Law Attorneys | Read More

Character Is Destiny | Read More

2025 AAML Annual Meeting | Register Now

Highlights From the 2025 Institute for Family Law Associates and Mediation Training

AAML Names Marlee Honcoop as Executive Director

Volunteer With AAML: Sign Up Due July 14 | Complete the Interest Form

Showcase Your Expertise: Contribute to the AAML Newsletter | Pitch Your Article



By: Rod Firoozye, AAML Newsletter Editor

Navigating U.S. Passport Applications for Minors Under 16: A Guide for Family Law Attorneys

By: Carolyn Alvarez

Family law attorneys are often asked to advise their clients about travel-related legal matters involving minor children. One frequently overlooked but critical consideration is the process for obtaining a U.S. passport for a child under the age of 16. This article outlines the legal framework, application procedures and practical considerations that attorneys must understand to guide clients through this process effectively.

Character Is Destiny

By: Steven N. Peskind

We live in an era of shortcuts. I see it when a new vendor is looking to sell the label of "best in class" for a few hundred dollars. Or the lawyer who lets ChatGPT write her pleadings or trial memorandum without confirming the legal citations are not AI phantoms. Or other lawyers who throw tens of thousands of dollars a month at SEO and social media to reel in new clients, yet are too disorganized or lazy to manage the volume, failing to return client calls or master the facts of their cases prior to going to court. But even in the age of AI and "greatestlawyersintheuniverse.com," you can't buy your way to success in family law.

Registration is now open for the 2025 AAML Annual Meeting, happening Nov. 5-8, 2025, in Chicago. Known as the premier gathering for AAML Fellows, this event is your opportunity to reconnect with colleagues and friends while expanding your professional network.

Register now to take advantage of an invigorating schedule, an engaging CLE program covering substantiative topics within family law and unique networking experiences where you can mingle with other Fellows.

Last month, AAML proudly hosted the Institute for Family Law Associates and Mediation Training in Chicago. The two events brought together over 100 family law attorneys from across the country for an immersive experience focused on CLE and professional growth.

In addition to the robust CLE program, both seminars offered attendees the opportunity to connect with some of the brightest minds in family law. Through educational programming, networking opportunities and informal conversations, the events fostered meaningful professional connections and the exchange of ideas to help advance the knowledge of both seasoned AAML Fellows and family law associates.

AAML Names Marlee Honcoop as Executive Director

The AAML Board of Directors has named Marlee Honcoop as the executive director of AAML. After taking on the position of interim executive director in August 2024, she has helped reset the day-to-day operations of the Academy, established a high-performing staff team and upgraded the Fellow portal and education experience with new technology implementations (the three-part “tech stack”). 

Going forward, Ms. Honcoop will develop data-driven strategies in partnership with the House of Governors, Board of Directors, staff and Fellows to achieve the other pillars of the AAML strategic plan. We look forward to our continued collaboration with Ms. Honcoop and further successes for our organization.

Volunteer With AAML: Sign Up Due July 14

Call for volunteers is now open for 2025-2026 opportunities. Learn more about the committees and task forces and sign up by July 14.

Share your knowledge, elevate your profile and position yourself as a recognized expert in your field. The AAML Newsletter offers a valuable opportunity for Fellows to highlight best practices, offer fresh insights and reflect the forward-thinking work happening at their firm — all while contributing to the broader conversation shaping our profession.

Consider yourself a leader in one of the below practice areas? The Newsletter Committee invites you to submit an article on:



• Boarding schools and educational decisions
• Minor laborers and financial management
• Trauma-informed practice
• Or other family law related topics

If you're interested in submitting an article or would like more information, contact the AAML editorial team at editorial@aaml.org.

Visit the AAML Chapters page for the latest updates from local chapters.