Survivors of domestic violence often have to file for divorce to protect themselves and their children from further harm. Unfortunately, these types of cases will often get messy, with the abuser attempting to cast doubt on the victim's statements.
Domestic Violence: How It Affects a Divorce
Should I get a prenuptial (prenup) agreement ?
Many couples don't know the difference between a Pennsylvania prenuptial agreement and a Pennsylvania cohabitation agreement and are often left wondering if they should even bother getting one. Both types of agreements allow each person in the relationship to protect themselves and their rights as the relationship moves forward. There is a difference as to when a couple should enter into a prenuptial agreement and when a couple should use a cohabitation agreement.
LGBTQ Family Building: How a family formation attorney can help you to grow your family
Our Pittsburgh based law firm is proud to assist LGBTQ individuals and couples on their journey to building and expanding their families with our experience as family formation attorneys. Maybe you and your partner are already well on your way to growing your family or maybe you're wondering how to begin this journey.
What do I do if I don't like his or her fiancé(e) ? Speaking up and suggesting a prenuptial agreement
You may want to suggest a Pennsylvania prenuptial agreement (or prenup) to a family member or friend who recently got engaged when you've noticed some red-flags about their soon to be spouse. This is a sensitive issue. If you've already noticed red flags about your loved one's or friend's fiance(e), such as controlling behaviors or disputes about money, broach this topic with them carefully.
How Do I Obtain Primary Custody of My Child in Pennsylvania?
The process of obtaining primary custody of a child in Pennsylvania will vary depending on the county in which the case is brought. The first step in commencing custody proceedings in any county is to file a Complaint for Custody. Most counties require both parties attend an educational component on co-parenting before the custody process can proceed. Some counties require children of certain ages to attend, while other counties do not. So what if you live out-of-state or cannot attend a co-parenting class for some other reason? Depending on the reasoning, your attorney may be able to have the educational component bypassed. Alternatively, some judges will allow a party to complete a similar co-parenting course in their home county, and others may even allow for completion of an online course if good cause is shown. Generally, however, judges are hesitant to waive this requirement and will not allow a case to proceed until completed by both parties.
What Pennsylvania custody law says about your child's summer vacation
Do you currently have a Pennsylvania child custody order? Does your child custody order provide a schedule for your child's upcoming summer break?
Gestational Surrogate Requirements in Pennsylvania
What are the Requirements to Act as a Gestational Surrogate in Pennsylvania?
If you are considering acting as a gestational surrogate in Pennsylvania, Florida or another state or are a Pennsylvania Intended Parent or Intended Parents seeking a gestational surrogacy contract in Pennsylvania, Florida or another state, you should know what are the generally accepted medical and other qualifications and/or disqualifications for a Florida or Pennsylvania surrogate mother.
Honoring National Infertility Awareness Week in Pennsylvania - Speaking to loved ones about their infertility
National Infertility Awareness Week runs through April 22 - 28. Currently 7.3 million Americans are struggling with infertility. Infertility does not discriminate based on age, religion, sexual orientation, or economic status. Many couples and individuals in Pennsylvania struggle to build their families.
Celebrity News: Pennsylvania Divorce of Channing Tatum
By now you have probably heard of the split of actor Channing Tatum from his wife Jenna Dewan-Tatum. Under Pennsylvania's divorce laws and Pennsylvania's custody laws what's at stake for the couple?
Is your pension at stake in a Westmoreland County divorce?
Pennsylvania divorce law states that the portions of a retirement plan which are earned prior to marriage and after the separation of the spouses is nonmarital property. Meaning your spouse is not entitled to a portion of any increase in your pension during these periods of time. During the marriage however, any increase in your Pennsylvania retirement benefits, regardless of whether those benefits were vested on the date of separation, are marital property.
