Family Matters
Issues involving your family can be emotionally draining and extremely stressful. Thinking clearly during these hard times is nearly impossible which is why you need someone who can help look at your situation objectively and help determine your options.
Custody
Custody doesn’t have to be contentious. Many people resolve custody disputes through agreements wherein both parties have a say in how the custody of their children will be managed. Having a court agreement that states such terms gives each parent a way to enforce the agreement. If parents aren’t able to come to an agreement then the issue of custody can be resolved by the courts. In deciding where the children shall reside, and how often each parents gets to see the children the judge will consider the best interest of the children.
Relocation Hearings
If a parent wants to move and has an active custody order they may need a court order before they can move with the child. Without such an order, the other parents can take court action to make the other parent return to the area with the child. This hearing is also the time and place to show the court why the child shouldn’t leave the area where he/she currently resides. Don’t wait until this decision has already been made for you, take action today.
Child Support
If you are supporting your child more than 50% of the time you may be entitled to support from the other parent. The amount of support that you would be entitled to is calculated by the court and considers each parents income along with the number of children.
Divorce
There are three ways to get a divorce in Pennsylvania: through mutual consent of each spouse, through a fault of either spouse or after the couple has been apart for two years. When the couple holds mutual assets a marital distribution will usually be part of the divorce. There are also rights that either party may enjoy as a result of the divorce such as alimony or spousal support.
CYS/Juvenile Dependency
When allegations of abuse or neglect are made against a family there is usually a follow through made by CYS/CYF to make sure all is well in the home. Unfortunately, many people react poorly to the allegations made against them as parents and wind up in court as a result. Once Dependency proceedings have started there is a real threat that your children may be taken away from you. During the course of your case the court will issue orders meant to help benefit both the parents and children so that the family can be reunited at a future time. If these orders are not follow the end result is usually a termination of parental rights.
Termination of Parental Rights
If your child has been adjudicated dependent or delinquent then you are at risk for having your parental rights terminated. Meeting the demands of the court can be stressful when trying to balance a job with raising your child/children. Don’t hesitate when it comes to your children, bring an advocate to court that will make sure you are heard.
With your children on the line, you need an advocate who knows what you’re up against and is willing to fight for your family. Don’t let the Agency decide your children’s future, be proactive and call us today.