Owens & Perkins Attorneys at Law

September 2025 Newsletter

Navigating Child Custody

Child custody is a vital aspect of family law that determines how children's care is managed after parents separate or divorce. Courts prioritize the child's best interests when deciding custody arrangements, which include legal custody (decision-making rights) and physical custody (living arrangements). Joint custody, where both parents share responsibilities and time with the child, is often encouraged as it promotes strong relationships with both parents. While navigating custody can be emotionally challenging, understanding the legal framework can help achieve positive outcomes for families.

Click on the buttons below to read our most recent articles!

Understanding Child Custody Laws in Arizona: A Comprehensive Guide

What to do When Your Ex Violates Custody Agreements

Small Estate Affidavit Amounts Are Increasing!

Great news for Arizona families wanting to avoid probate! Arizona’s Small Estate Affidavit amounts are increasing, effective September 26, 2025. Previously, Small Estate Affidavits could be used to collect up to $75,000 in personal property (including bank accounts, vehicles, etc.) and $100,000 for real property. Starting September 26, 2025, those amounts are increasing making the Small Estate Affidavit’s available to more families. The new amounts after September 26, 2025 will be $200,000 for personal property and $300,000 for real property.

If you have recently suffered the loss of a loved one and have questions about Arizona’s Small Estate Affidavits, please click here to schedule a consultation.

New Spousal Maintenance Guidelines

The new Spousal Maintenance Guidelines went into effect on 09/01/2025. The revised Spousal Maintenance Guidelines do the following:

1) Modifies the high-income adjustment;

2) Requires parties who reach an agreement regarding spousal maintenance to include an acknowledgment that the parties are aware of the guidelines and calculator and the amount/duration they would produce;

3) Clarifies how to address income from overtime;

4) Removes the monthly mortgage principal reduction;

5) Modifies the standard duration range for marriages greater than 192 months (16 years); and

6) Adds new requirements regarding temporary orders, including the need to address community expenses and Bobrow reimbursement claims.

Click here to view the new Spousal Maintenance Calculator.

Upcoming Calendar Events

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

September 22, 2025 - Fall Begins

September 22, 2025 - Rosh Hashanah Begins

The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is 988.

C.D. Owens, Jr.

03/27/1923 - 08/19/2025

The Owens & Perkins team and family wish to extend our deepest gratitude for the overwhelming outpouring of love, support, and remembrance following C.D.’s passing.

At 102 years old, he was not only a legendary lawyer, but also a larger-than-life personality whose sharp wit, unapologetic confidence, and unshakable spirit left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

Your kind words, heartfelt condolences, and cherished memories have brought comfort during this time. Thank you for celebrating his incredible life with us.

While we mourn his loss, we take great pride in celebrating a life so boldly and fully lived. We are grateful to each of you for honoring him with the respect, admiration, and laughter that he inspired throughout his remarkable 102 years.

We offer a 30-minute Phone, Zoom or In-person consultation.

Click the link below or call us today at 480.994.8824.

Prenuptial Agreements

Owens & Perkins, Attorneys at Law

7322 E. Thomas Road

Scottsdale, AZ 85251

www.oplaw.com