Pennsylvania Legal Blog
Do you have an estate plan? Most people don’t.
Estate planning is just one of those things where we all know that we’ll need it, but most of us don’t have it. For years, studies have claimed that less than 50% of people have an estate plan in place at any given time, meaning that most people have done no planning....
Do you know the difference between legal and physical custody?
Child custody is often the most hotly contested issue in a divorce. Parents who don't understand how the Pennsylvania family courts handle custody determinations may be at a disadvantage when trying to assert their parental rights. Some of the most common mistakes...
In a Pennsylvania divorce, who gets the four-legged kids?
Three states have laws on the book that judges decide custody of pets in a divorce. Pennsylvania could become the fourth. House Bill 1432 is pending in the legislature. The bill was introduced by Rep. Anita Astorino Kulik (D-Allegheny), who said at the time of...
Your tax responsibilities as the executor of an estate
Serving as an executor or administrator for an estate means dealing with a lot of details, forgotten possessions and unhappy family member. Between Pennsylvania probate court and family squabbles, you may have a lot of issues to manage as you handle the estate of a...
The differences between contested and uncontested divorce
Considering divorce is often stressful, but it's important for anyone who might soon file for the dissolution of their marriage to understand that there is more than one approach to this process. In fact, your Pennsylvania divorce can be as unique as your marriage....
Protect your legal rights if pulled over for suspicion of DUI
If an officer pulls you over for suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol, it’s natural to have concerns. It doesn’t matter if you’re sober, only had one drink or are full-blown intoxicated, you never know what the process will bring and how it will end up....
Co-parenting tips to make the most of your parenting agreement
When you decide to divorce, you’re likely to have concerns about the challenges associated with co-parenting. You need to do what’s best for you, both now and in the future, but you must always keep the well-being of your children in mind. There are a variety of...
Do you need to change your custody order in Pennsylvania?
The terms set by the court for child custody in your divorce are official, but they are not permanent. Either parent can ask the state to make changes to the custody or support orders. They can do so by filing a motion requesting a modification hearing. The courts can...
Do you have to be someone’s executor?
A friend or relative just died and you found out that you are named in their will as the executor of their estate. While you’re understandably honored, you’re also a bit hesitant about doing the job. Are you stuck? No, not actually. You may have to take a few formal...
How to divide household items in a divorce
At some point during a divorce, every couple has to go through the somewhat tedious (and stressful) process of dividing up their shared accumulations. Knowing where to start -- and how to be smart about it -- can save you both a lot of frustration and legal fees. Here...
