Filing for divorce in Pennsylvania requires a few first steps to start the process. The spouse who files for divorce must declare the reason the marriage is ending. Under the law, there are four options from which to choose when filing for divorce. The legal process...
Family Law
Am I eligible to adopt a child in Pennsylvania?
Bringing a new child into your home is so rewarding. That is why so many people choose to adopt. Adoption ensures that all kids have a chance at a loving and stable family. It also helps people unable to conceive on their own realize their dream of having a family....
Mediation and collaborative divorce are two effective ADR options
If you and your spouse are ending your marriage, the prospect of a lengthy and possibly contentious divorce in court is probably a process you would like to avoid. More appealing options are available through two forms of alternative dispute resolution, or ADR. What...
How does parental alienation affect your kid?
If you recently divorced, it is going to take some time to readjust to life as you once knew it. This adjustment period may be easier or harder depending on unique factors. In some extreme cases, one spouse may not adjust at all. In these situations, you could end up...
How difficult is it to establish paternity in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, a married woman’s husband is the presumed legal father of any child born to her. If you and your child’s mother were not married at the time of your child’s birth, however, the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare warns that you have no legal...
3 types of adoption
When you decide to adopt a child, you have several options. You can adopt a child from another country, another state or from right here in Pennsylvania. You can have an open adoption, in which you get the opportunity to meet the birth parent(s), or a closed adoption,...
Collaborative divorce puts the focus on respectful teamwork
A standard divorce process in court has its drawbacks and many couples are finding a better option based on teamwork and cooperation. If you and your spouse are hesitant to enter litigation, which is often contentious, collaborative divorce may be a viable alternative...
Can bad behavior affect your divorce case?
Contentious divorces are very stressful. You may be unhappy about the circumstances that led to your divorce, and this unhappiness can steadily build into resentment. Your feelings might cause you to treat your former spouse badly, and you may even feel justified in...
What are the types of custody?
Before you go to court to settle the matter of child custody, it is helpful to understand the different options. The Pennsylvania General Assembly explains there are a few different types of child custody each of which offers varying levels of rights. Legal custody...
Can a grandparent ask for custody?
Parental separation affects more than just the immediate family unit. Grandparents may find themselves collateral damage during a breakup. The relationship between children and grandparents is meaningful, but it does not outrank the parents. While they may not have...