Stroudsburg Family Law
Family law is a broad area of law that deals with families and relationships. While divorce is a common part of family law, it can encompass many elements such as:
- Property distribution
- Child custody
- Relocation
- Parenting plans
- Time-sharing plans
- Child support
- Alimony/spousal support
- Child support and alimony modifications
- Grandparents’ rights
- Settlement agreements
- Domestic violence
- Restraining orders
- Prenuptial/postmarital agreements
- Annulments
- Paternity
- Adoption
- Termination of parental rights
- Guardianships
Family law matters are complex and often emotional. Each person has unique situations, so it’s important to find a skilled attorney who has experience handling these types of cases through various methods.
Ideally, the parties would agree on all the elements of a case, but this rarely happens. A good lawyer uses various plans and strategies to come to an agreement. They will focus on the best interests of everyone involved and use tactics such as negotiation, mediation, and litigation.
What to Know About Asset Division
In Pennsylvania, assets are divided equitably, not equally. Marital assets may still be divided 50/50, though. It will depend on the contributions of each spouse to the marriage. Examples include child care, home maintenance, earning power, education, and care for the other spouse. It may also depend on whether or not there are prenuptial or postnuptial agreements involved.
Marital assets may include homes, cars, boats, retirement accounts, bank accounts, furniture, collections, and even businesses. However, it is not necessary to split every asset 50/50. For example, to avoid splitting up a business, the business owner may offer other assets to the other spouse, such as more money or another asset.
What to Know About Child Custody
Child custody is often a contentious issue. One parent often tries to take custody from the other parent as revenge. This leads to lengthy and expensive court battles.
Child custody is based on the best interests of the child. It is not based on gender, although mothers do get custody most of the time. This is because they tend to be the child’s primary caregiver.
The courts, however, like to have both parents involved in their child’s life. Therefore, they will often favor 50/50 custody. However, it must be feasible and there must be no issues of neglect or abuse with one parent. When this happens, one parent will usually get sole custody.
In Pennsylvania, child support is not connected to child custody or visitation rights. This means that parents have the legal right to see their children, whether or not they pay child support. Therefore, the custodial parent cannot keep the noncustodial parent from their children. When this happens, the noncustodial parent should seek a modification or contempt order.
Contact Us Today
Each state has different laws when it comes to family matters. Do you know your legal rights? Get help from a Stroudsburg family law attorney who understands Pennsylvania laws and can help you get a favorable outcome.
Needle Law Firm can assist you with various elements of family law, including divorce, alimony, and child custody and support issues. Schedule a consultation with us today. Call (570) 344-1266 or fill out the online contact form.
