Family law cases are emotionally draining on all of the parties involved. Decisions must be made by a divorcing couple regarding the division of assets, where any children from a relationship will live and which parent will pay child support. These types of issues are very close to many individual’s hearts, which is why it’s important to contact a family law firm in Lancaster County, PA to answer all of the legal questions that will come up. Although they can’t make a determination for a client, they can keep the individual focused and remove the emotion out of making decisions that could affect their lives forever. They will thoroughly educate an individual about their legal rights and provide them with the ability to make sound legal decisions.
A family law case usually begins over a divorce. Before a couple can file for divorce, they must meet the requirements of the state. One of the parties must reside in the state for at least six months before filing. Pennsylvania permits no-fault divorces, which can include mutual consent of both of the parties, institutionalism of one of the parties at least eighteen months prior to filing, and irretrievable breakdown of the marriage. In the past, Pennsylvania required a couple to live separate and apart for two years before a divorce could be granted in these types of situations. The time was recently reduced to a year if a couple separated after December 5, 2016.
Fault-based divorces can be granted on the grounds of adultery, abandonment without reasonable cause for over a year, cruel and barbarous treatment including domestic violence, imprisonment for more than two years, and many others. Understanding the divorce law can be very complicated without the help of a family law firm in Lancaster County, PA. The laws can change quickly and without the legal guidance and knowledge an experienced attorney can offer, things can become quite confusing. Protecting assets an individual acquired before their marriage, including real estate or retirement savings, can be thoroughly explained by a family law attorney.
The law office of Melissa R. Montgomery has represented family law clients in the area for many years and can help you through this difficult situation.
