Category Archives: Meet Blank Rome

In the News

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Below is a roundup of Blank Rome Matrimonial and Family Law partners’ recent awards, recognitions, media, and other accomplishments from around the country.

Gavin Rossdale and Gwen Stefani: Co-Parenting from Parallel Paths
April 27, 2026: Blank Rome partner Morgan F. Mouchette authored this Forbes article discussing how the divorced Gwen Stefani and Gavin Rossdale handles raising their children. 
Parental Alienation in Divorce: Judicial Insights
April 23, 2026: Blank Rome partner Alan R. Feigenbaum authored this New York Law Journal article discussing how courts define parental alienation within custody dispute cases. 
Inside the ‘Financial Infidelities’ That Tear Marriages Apart
April 20, 2026: Blank Rome partner Marilyn B. Chinitz was featured in this Wall Street Journal article discussing financial infidelities within marriages. 
Ask Stacy – What Your Garden Can Teach You About Divorce
April 16, 2026: In this LinkedIn Article, Stacy D. Phillips answers questions from her readers and podcast listeners and shares her “hot takes” and insights on the issues.
Ask Stacy – Divorce is No Laughing Matter … Or is It?
April 15, 2026: In this LinkedIn Article, Stacy D. Phillips answers questions from her readers and podcast listeners and shares her “hot takes” and insights on the issues.
Ask Stacy – Surviving the Chill of Divorce
March 30, 2026: In this LinkedIn Article, Stacy D. Phillips answers questions from her readers and podcast listeners and shares her “hot takes” and insights on the issues.
Inside the Stunning Downfall of NBA Icon Dwight Howard as New Bodycam Footage Lays Bare Latest Feud
March 23, 2026: Blank Rome partner Sarah M. Luetto was featured in this Daily Mail article discussing potential repercussions for the former Los Angeles Lakers star Dwight Howard amid recent abuse allegations.
Blank Rome Welcomes New Matrimonial & Family Law Of Counsel Jackielyn H. Abellada in Los Angeles
March 23, 2026: Blank Rome is pleased to announce that Jackielyn H. Abellada has joined the firm’s Los Angeles office as an of counsel in the Matrimonial & Family Law practice group
Michelle Piscopo Joins Financial Planning: Explained
March 20, 2026: Blank Rome of counsel Michelle Piscopo joined host Michael Menninger on Financial Planning: Explained, a weekly educational show that discusses unique approaches to financial planning.
Groundbreaking Decision on Authentication of Video Evidence
March 19, 2026: Blank Rome partner Alan R. Feigenbaum authored this New York Law Journal article discussing how even amid disturbing facts and concerns about child safety, video evidence must meet strict evidentiary standards, particularly in an era of potential digital manipulation.
What the Oscars Gift Bag Says About Divorce Planning
March 18, 2026: Blank Rome partner Morgan F. Mouchette authored this Forbes article discussing the “Everybody Wins” gift bags given to top Oscar nominees and the notable inclusion of a custom prenuptial agreement within.
Brett S. Ward Joins the Disrupting Divorce Podcast
March 13, 2026: Blank Rome partner Brett S. Ward joined host Rhonda Noordyk on the Disrupting Divorce podcast to discuss the concept of “alienation of affection” and its role in modern divorce disputes.
Stacy D. Phillips and Kristina Royce Named 2026 Top Family Lawyers by Daily Journal
March 13, 2026: Blank Rome partners Stacy D. Phillips and Kristina Royce, who also serves as co-chair of the firm’s Matrimonial and Family Law practice group, have been named 2026 Top Family Lawyers by the Daily Journal.
The Gates’ Divorce: Insights for Affluent Couples Who Run Foundations
March 13, 2026: Blank Rome partners Morgan F. Mouchette and Kyle G. Durante were featured in this Inside Philanthropy article discussing charitable giving in the wake of the divorce between Bill and Melinda Gates.
Whose Charity Is It Anyway? How Family Law Treats Philanthropy Made During Marriage
March 11, 2026: Blank Rome partners Jackie Combs and Sarah Luetto authored this National Law Review article discussing how charitable giving can spark disputes in high-net-worth divorces.
Zendaya’s Secret Wedding: The Legal Art of Keeping Love Private
March 6, 2026: Blank Rome partner Morgan F. Mouchette authored this Forbes article discussing how actors Zendaya and Tom Holland kept their marriage largely hidden from the public eye. 
Michelle M. Gervais Recognized in the 2026 Lawdragon 500 Global Leaders in Crisis Management Guide
March 2, 2026: Blank Rome is pleased to share that partner Michelle M. Gervais has been named to the 2026 Lawdragon 500 Global Leaders in Crisis Management guide.
Gen Z Is Embracing the Prenup, Says Family Law Attorney: ‘The Taboo of Divorces Is Long Gone’
February 28, 2026: Blank Rome partner Jackie Combs was featured in this CNBC Make It article discussing how more Gen Z prenuptial agreements are trending.    
Marilyn B. Chinitz on Life After Divorce
February 26, 2026: Blank Rome partner Marilyn B. Chinitz recently appeared on PIX11 News to discuss why divorce isn’t a failure, but an opportunity for healing, growth, and stronger relationships ahead.
Influencer Prenups Are on the Rise. How the Legal Arrangement Differs from a Traditional Prenup
February 20, 2026: Blank Rome partner Alan R. Feigenbaum was featured in this PEOPLE article discussing some of the difficulties in developing prenuptial agreements. 
‘Who You Marry Is the Biggest Financial Decision in Your Life,’ Says Attorney: Ask These 6 Money Questions on a First Date
February 18, 2026: Blank Rome partner Jackie Combs was featured in this CNBC Make It article discussing interesting financial questions to ask a potential partner on a first date.   
Equitable Distribution Agreements Are Final Agreements
February 19, 2026: Blank Rome partner Alan R. Feigenbaum authored this New York Law Journal article discussing how equitable distribution provisions in divorce settlements are final and binding, even when a party later obtains new information that could have altered the deal.
Diamonds Are Forever, Divorce Rings Are for What Comes After
February 13, 2026: Blank Rome partner Jackie Combs was featured in this Wall Street Journal article discussing the significance of engagement and marital rings after a divorce.
Kyle Cooke & Amanda Batula Skipped a Prenup, Is Loverboy in the Lurch?
February 10, 2026: Blank Rome partner Morgan F. Mouchette authored this Forbes article discussing the recent separation of reality stars Kyle Cooke and Amanda Batula.
Highly Attractive Partners Have ‘Financial Stability’—but These 4 Money Red Flags Doom a Relationship, Survey Finds
February 10, 2026: Blank Rome partner Jackie Combs was featured in this CNBC Make It article discussing financial alignment when choosing a marital partner.  
Marilyn B. Chinitz Joins the I Do, Part 2 Podcast
February 4, 2026: Blank Rome partner Marilyn B. Chinitz joined host Jennifer Fessler on I Do, Part 2, an iHeartRadio podcast.

Attorney Spotlight: Ory Apelboim—New York

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Stacy D. Phillips ●

With this edition of Attorney Spotlight, I am pleased to feature one of our esteemed New York colleagues in Blank Rome’s Matrimonial & Family Law group: Ory Apelboim.

Ory Apelboim
Partner

With over two decades of legal experience, Ory is a valued and indispensable member of our Matrimonial & Family Law team. A graduate of The Bronx High School of Science, University of Buffalo, State University of New York, and Brooklyn Law School, Ory has built a successful practice representing clients in a broad range of complex and high‑conflict matrimonial matters, including divorce, equitable distribution, and child custody issues.

Ory was born and raised in Queens, New York, spending his formative years in New York City. He attended the Bronx High School of Science, where he studied with students from all five boroughs of NYC, an incredibly unique experience that strengthened his connection to his hometown and helped shape his path toward a legal career. Ory began his practice in commercial litigation at a boutique firm before joining a mid-sized firm that offered family law services. As high-net-worth divorces are at times akin to a business dissolution, Ory transitioned naturally into this practice. In doing so, he gained the opportunity to support clients not only with professional legal matters but also through the profound personal decisions that significantly impact their lives.

Read more on our website.

In the News

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Below is a roundup of Blank Rome Matrimonial and Family Law Partners’ recent awards, recognitions, media, and other accomplishments from around the country.

Postnuptial Agreements as Risk Management Tools for Executives and Entrepreneurs
January 26, 2026 – Blank Rome partner Jackie Combs authored this National Law Review article discussing how a postnuptial agreement is both a personal and strategic business tool for executives and entrepreneurs.

What Is Alienation of Affection? Attorney Breaks Down Rare Legal Concept That Cost a Tiktoker $1.75 Million
January 26, 2026 – Blank Rome partner Brett Ward was featured in this PEOPLE article discussing how social media can play a role in civil cases surrounding alienation of affection.

STI Transmission & Divorce: A Form of Domestic Violence
January 22, 2026 – Blank Rome partner Alan R. Feigenbaum authored this New York Law Journal article discussing how domestic violence includes non-physical harm such as the reckless transmission of STIs.

Attorney Jackie Combs on National Divorce Month
January 21, 2026 – Blank Rome partner Jackie Combs was featured in this PIX11 News’ New York City Living article discussing why January is often known as “National Divorce Month.” 

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Attorney Spotlight: Ali Fishbein—New York

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Stacy D. Phillips ●

With this edition of Attorney Spotlight, I am pleased to feature one of our esteemed New York colleagues in Blank Rome’s Matrimonial & Family Law group—Ali Fishbein.

Ali L. Fishbein
Partner

With over a decade of legal experience, Ali is a valued and indispensable member of our Matrimonial & Family Law team. A graduate of the George Washington University Law School, Ali has successfully represented clients in a wide range of high‑stakes cases involving substantial marital assets. Her experience, dedication, and keen understanding of family law make her exceptionally equipped to handle even the most complex legal challenges.

I have had the privilege of knowing Ali since she was about five years old. I have worked with her father for many years, and it has been my pleasure to watch Ali grow both as a lawyer and a person. Back when Ali was pursuing her legal degree, she got involved with the family justice clinic in her third year at law school and fell in love with the practice of family law.

Read more on our website.

In the News

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Below is a roundup of Blank Rome Matrimonial and Family Law Partners’ recent awards, recognitions, media, and other accomplishments from around the country.


Second Season of “Stacy Phillips & Friends” Launched
November 18, 2025 – Blank Rome partner Stacy D. Phillips has launched the second season of her lifestyle podcast “Stacy Phillips & Friends.” This podcast engages in insightful conversations with remarkable businesswomen, philanthropists, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders, inspiring and empowering women to transform their lives and careers

Letters to Let Go: The Healing Power of Expressive Writing
November 13, 2025 – Blank Rome partner Lois J. Liberman’s Look Ahead series is designed to bring our community together to help tackle today’s most complex relationship and divorce issues.

This Celebrity Attorney’s Client List Is Getting Younger—but There Is One Thing She Says Gen Z Is Doing Right in Relationships
October 30, 2025 – Blank Rome partner Jackie Combs was featured in this CNBC article discussing the importance of communication within relationships.

‘Real Housewives’ Divorce Bombshell — Bravo Star Could Be ‘Individually Charged and Prosecuted in Criminal Court’ If She Walks Away from Marriage
October 29, 2025 – Blank Rome partner Ernestine J. Mings was featured in this Radar Online article discussing potential criminal charges surrounding Real Housewives star Wendy Osefo’s divorce. 

Cardi B’s Divorce: Money Moves and Legal Lessons
October 28, 2025 – Blank Rome partner Morgan F. Mouchette authored this Forbes article discussing complications surrounding rap music star Cardi B’s divorce

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Attorney Spotlight: Bret Hunter—Los Angeles

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Stacy D. Phillips ●

In this edition of Attorney Spotlight, I am pleased to feature one of our esteemed Los Angeles colleagues in Blank Rome’s Matrimonial & Family Law group—Bret Hunter.

With over two decades of legal experience, Bret is a trusted and integral member of our Matrimonial & Family Law team. A graduate of the University of Michigan and the Dedman School of Law at Southern Methodist University, Bret has successfully represented clients in numerous high-stakes cases involving substantial marital assets. His expertise, commitment, and in-depth knowledge of family law make him exceptionally qualified to navigate even the most challenging legal matters.

Prior to practicing law, Bret was active in the Washington, D.C., political arena. He caught the political bug early, working at a young age in various internships on Capitol Hill. After attending law school, Bret continued to work in the D.C. area in politics before deciding to begin a full-time career as a lawyer. Family law offered him the opportunity to work closely with people, much like he did during his time on the Hill. Bret eventually moved to California, where he continues to practice law to this day.

Read more on our website.

In the News

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Below is a roundup of Blank Rome Matrimonial and Family Law Partners’ recent awards, recognitions, media coverage, and other accomplishments from around the country.

‘Meaningful Consultation’ Over Add-On Expenses in Divorce
July 24, 2025 – Blank Rome partner Alan R. Feigenbaum authored this New York Law Journal article discussing “add-on expenses” within custody agreements. 

Chambers High Net Worth 2025 Highly Ranks Blank Rome Matrimonial & Family Law Group and Attorneys
July 24, 2025 – Chambers High Net Worth 2025 has highly ranked Blank Rome’s Matrimonial & Family Law practice group in California and New York, as well as co-chairs Kristina Royce and Morgan Fraser Mouchette, and partners Marilyn B. Chinitz, Norman S. Heller, Lois J. Liberman, Sophie Jacobi-Parisi, Stacy D. Phillips, Mary T. Vidas, and Brett S. Ward. 

Stacy D. Phillips and Kristina Royce Recognized as Leading California Family, Matrimonial & Divorce Lawyers by Doyle’s Guide
July 23, 2025 – Blank Rome is pleased to share that partners Stacy D. Phillips and Kristina Royce have been recognized in the 2025 listing of Leading California Family, Matrimonial & Divorce Lawyers by Doyle’s Guide.

Here’s How Much Andy Byron’s Divorce Bill Could Be Following Coldplay Kiss Cam Debacle
July 19, 2025 – Blank Rome partner Jacqueline Combs was featured in this New York Post article discussing the potential fallout from Andy Byron’s recent incident at Coldplay’s concert.

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Attorney Spotlight: Michelle Piscopo—Philadelphia

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Stacy D. Phillips ●

With this edition of Attorney Spotlight, I am pleased to feature one of our esteemed Philadelphia colleagues in Blank Rome’s Matrimonial & Family Law group—Michelle Piscopo.

Michelle Piscopo
Of Counsel

With more than two decades of legal experience, Michelle is a highly valued member of our Matrimonial & Family Law team. A graduate of Widener University and the Temple University Beasley School of Law, Michelle has successfully handled numerous cases involving significant marital estates. Her skill, dedication, and deep understanding of family law make her exceptionally equipped to manage even the most complex matters.

Before pursuing her career in law, Michelle studied psychology—an academic foundation that continues to inform her empathetic and client-centered approach. She thrives on working closely with individuals, guiding them through some of life’s most challenging moments. Matrimonial law is a natural fit for Michelle, as it allows her to combine her legal acumen with her passion for helping people.

Read more on our website.

In the News

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Below is a roundup of Blank Rome Matrimonial and Family Law Partners’ recent awards, recognitions, media, and other accomplishments from around the country.

Divorce, Pensions, and Survivorship Benefits: A Deadly Combination
April 25, 2025 – Blank Rome partner Alan R. Feigenbaum authored this New York Law Journal article discussing concerns surrounding survivorship benefits in separation agreements.

Kristina Royce Joins the Chiquis and Chill Podcast
April 23, 2025 – Kristina Royce, Blank Rome partner and co-chair of the Matrimonial & Family Law group, joined host Chiquis Rivera on the Chiquis and Chill podcast to discuss important topics such as marriage, divorce, and prenuptial agreements.

Kristina Royce Named Top 100 Lawyer by the Los Angeles Business Journal
April 22, 2025 – Blank Rome partner Kristina Royce, co-chair of the firm’s Matrimonial & Family Law group, has been recognized in the Los Angeles Business Journal’s Top 100 Lawyers 2025.

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Attorney Spotlight: Dylan Mitchell—New York

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Stacy D. Phillips ●

This edition of Attorney Spotlight highlights one of our valued New York City colleagues in Blank Rome’s Matrimonial & Family Law group: Dylan Mitchell.

Dylan S. Mitchell
Partner

Dylan has been practicing law for nearly 30 years and is a valued member of our Matrimonial & Family Law team. He is a trained and efficient mediator and has helped parents and families resolve disputes without the need for continued litigation on many occasions. As a lawyer, Dylan has never had a desire to represent anyone other than a human being. A lawyer is a problem solver. Practicing family law provides Dylan with the opportunity to work with clients facing human issues. Many of his clients feel that they are experiencing the worst points in their lives when going through a divorce. Dylan is there to help clients solve problems and ultimately assist them in moving forward to better things. This experience can be rewarding for both the client and legal counsel.

Lawyers working in family law often walk a line between providing the necessary legal services and managing the ever-present emotions surrounding family matters. When it comes to family matters and high emotions, to pardon a pun, it is rather rare to be able to divorce these two factors. They are inextricably intertwined. 

Read more on our website.