THE. Custody and Visitation: How Legal Aid Helps VOLUME 8, ISSUE 1 SUMMER Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery. Counties Since 2001
|
|
- Neil Parker
- 8 years ago
- Views:
Transcription
1 VOLUME 8, ISSUE 1 SUMMER 2012 Voice THE Serving Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery Counties Since 2001 Custody and Visitation: How Legal Aid Helps Mission The mission of LASP is to provide quality legal representation to lowincome and vulnerable people from Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery Counties, to empower them to solve problems without legal representation through legal education and increased access to the courts, and to change community practices and systems that cause or aggravate poverty. Ronald R. Bolig, Esq. President Elizabeth Wood Fritsch, Esq. Executive Director x204 Harvey Strauss, Esq. Executive Director x117 Central Administration 625 Swede Street, Norristown, PA Anyone who does anything to help a child in his life is a hero to me. Fred ( Mister ) Rogers Please Note: Articles in this newsletter are intended to provide general information and not specific legal advice. If you have a specific legal problem, you should consult an attorney or call our toll-free Helpline at Nearly one fourth of cases handled by Legal Aid involve child custody. When parents do not live together, their most difficult and serious disagreements often involve their children. While it usually is best for both parents and children if the parents can agree on their own about custody and visitation, this is not always possible. Legal Aid helps low-income parents obtain custody orders. These orders set custody and visitation arrangements and can also deal with important decisions about medical care, religious training and education. When accepting cases, Legal Aid gives the highest priority to cases that assure the child s safety and contact with both parents. Recently, Ms. R.* attended a custody information class at a local Legal Aid office to learn about obtaining custody of her 3-year-old daughter. During her interview with her attorney, Ms. R. revealed that the child s father had not returned her daughter following her most recent visit, telling Ms. R. that he would not bring her daughter back unless she turned over the child s social security card and birth certificate to him. Ms. R. believed that he was going to fraudulently obtain welfare benefits with the information so she refused and came to Legal Aid for help. Her Legal Aid attorney filed a custody complaint that same day and was able to obtain a court date for the following week. Ms. R. served the father with the complaint over the weekend and, upon learning that he was facing a court hearing, he immediately returned the child. Both parents attended the custody conciliation conference, at which time they agreed that Ms. R. would have primary custody and they agreed to a set schedule when the father could see the child. Legal Aid s procedures for handling custody cases differ by county. See Page 2 for county-specific information. * Not actual client name or photograph. LASP TOLL-FREE HELPLINE, MON-FRI 9 AM-1 PM, SE HABLA ESPAÑOL
2 THE Voice Changes to PA Child Custody Law While you can no longer call the changes to Pennsylvania s custody law brand new (they went into effect on January 24, 2011), parties, attorneys and the courts are still adjusting to the demise of old presumptions and application of new standards, rules and procedures. Gone, for example, is the presumption that a party s gender shall create a preference in rendering a custody award. Also no longer in effect is the prohibition against filing for custody while still co-habiting with the other parent. New provisions include clearer rules about the ability of a grandparent, great grandparent or third party to file for a custody order. In addition, the number and types of criminal convictions that can affect a parent s ability to obtain custody have been expanded. Factors in Awarding Custody: The best interest of the child still remains the standard for any custody determination made by the court. But while under the old law the court was left to use its discretion in deciding each case, the new law states that [the] court shall determine the best interest of the child by considering all relevant factors, giving weighted consideration to those factors which affect the safety of the child, It then lists 16 specific statutory factors 1. What is more, the court now must explain its reasons for its determination on the record in open court or in a written opinion or order 2. Given that the court may consider any other relevant factor (Factor 16), however, the judge still has some leeway to go beyond those factors listed. New Relocation Procedures: The most dramatic changes to the custody law were made in the area of parental relocation. If a party wishes to relocate with the child away from the geographic region and if that relocation will have a negative impact on the other parent s ability to maintain contact with the child, the new law provides for formal notification forms and procedures which must be followed with penalties for failure to comply. The statute lists 10 factors for the court to consider in deciding whether to grant the request to relocate. The insert in this newsletter covers some of the frequently asked questions that arise in this sensitive area of the law as well as how to access Legal Aid s custody assistance in each of our four counties. LEGAL AID CUSTODY CONTACTS for low income parents who need assistance in filing for custody: Bucks County Call to find out if you qualify for services and to enroll in a custody class (held monthly in Bristol). Chester & Delaware Counties If you are a low-income parent from Chester or Delaware Counties who needs assistance in filing for custody, call the toll-free helpline, weekdays from 9 to 1. If eligible for services, you will be scheduled for group custody classes in your local counties. Montgomery County Norristown Office Call or come to 625 Swede Street during walk-in hours, Monday, Thursday, Friday 1:30-4:00. Pottstown Office Call or come to 248 King Street during walk-in hours, Monday, Thursday, Friday, 1:30-4:00. 2 A Publication of Legal Aid of Southeastern Pennsylvania
3 Prepared by Legal Aid of Southeastern Pennsylvania CLIENT This fact sheet is intended to provide general information and not specific legal advice. The law often changes. Each case is different. If you have a specific legal problem, you should consult an attorney or call the LASP Helpline toll-free at Se habla español. Filing for child custody can be a stressful experience for both parents. Read this FAQ for helpful information about the legal process. > 625 Swede Street, Norristown, PA Fact Sheet Issues in Family Law Summer 2012 Child Custody FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS What is child custody? Child custody is the legal right to keep, control, guard, and care for a minor child and includes the terms legal custody and physical custody. What is the difference between legal and physical custody? When you file a custody action, the courts will generally determine both legal and physical custody. Legal custody is the right to make major decisions affecting the best interests of a minor child, including but not limited to: medical, dental, religious and educational decisions. Physical custody is defined as having actual physical possession and control of a child. In other words, who is the child living or staying with at any given time? In what county do I file for custody of my child? Child custody cases are filed in the county where the minor child has been living for a period of six (6) months or since the child s birth if the child is less than six (6) months old. Is there a fee for filing for custody? Yes. The filing fee may be as much as $200, depending on the county. However, if you are low-income, you may request a waiver of the fees by completing what is called an In Forma Pauperis (IFP) petition. If a judge grants your request, the IFP allows a low-income party to file their child custody paperwork for free. You will need to provide the Court with information concerning your monthly income and expenses in your petition. Am I more likely to get custody if I file first? No, it does not matter who files the papers. The judge will decide who gets primary custody based upon the best interest of the child. Turn the page for more frequently asked questions >
4 CLIENT 625 Swede Street, Norristown, PA Fact Sheet Issues in Family Law Summer 2012 Child Custody FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Can someone other than a parent file for custody? In certain circumstances, yes. The rules for who can file (also known as standing) say that in some cases a grandparent may file for custody and even a third party may have custody rights when they have acted like a parent or stood in loco parentis (like a parent). Are child custody and child support linked? In other words, if the other parent is not paying child support, do I still need to let them see the child? Child support and custody ARE NOT LINKED. You may be found in contempt of a Court Order if you withhold visits from the other parent because they have not been paying support. You must also pay child support even if you are not seeing your child. Doesn t the court always keep children with their mother? The court will not automatically give mothers custody of their children. The court will decide who gets custody based on the best interests of the child. Will the court help me force the other parent to visit their child? No. Even if you get a court order granting partial physical custody or visitation to the other parent, the court will not force him or her to visit your child. I want sole legal custody. Will I get it? Sole legal custody is granted to a parent only in very rare circumstances. It could be granted when the other parent is incarcerated, or has documented issues with drugs, alcohol or mental illness so severe that they prevent that part that they prevent that party from participating in the legal custody decisions. Do I need an attorney to represent me? Parties can represent themselves in child custody cases. Unfortunately, due to limited resources, LASP can only provide representation in a very limited number of child custody cases. Please refer to Page 2 to see what services may be available in your county. If you would like a private attorney to represent you, you can contact your local bar association s lawyer referral service. Can my custody order be changed? Child custody orders may be modified at any point in time until the child turns 18 years old. However, a court is unlikely to consider a modification unless there has been a substantial change in circumstances. The court will use the best interests of the child standard to decide whether the modification should be granted. In filing a modification petition, you will generally go through the same procedures as in filing an initial complaint. What if the a parent fails to follow the order? If one parent willfully disobeys or fails to comply with an existing custody order, the other parent may file paperwork asking the court to punish that parent. The paperwork is called a Petition for Contempt.
5 d with sincere thanks to our recent donors THE Voice Legal Aid is pleased to announce recent grant awards from area charitable foundations that have been made in support of our work. In a year of falling government funding at every level, this support from area charitable foundations and corporate donors makes a big difference in our ability to maintain services for our region s most vulnerable families Foundation Awarded $10,000 in general operating support for the Chester County Division. The Bucks County Foundation Awarded $10,000 in funding to support the Bucks County Division s Legal Outreach in Tough Times Project. Their funding helps to support advocates that conduct outreach and represent clients in matters related to accessing government health, income maintenance and nutrition benefits, as well as consumer legal problems that have worsened during the current economic downturn. The E. Wallace Chadwick Memorial Fund Awarded $6,000 in general operating support for the Delaware County Division of Legal Aid. Claneil Foundation Awarded $5,000 in support of Protection from Abuse Legal Work. Flexible Benefits Plans Awarded $2,500 in general operating support. The Green Tree Community Health Foundation Awarded $5,000 in funding support for the Montgomery County Division s work with vulnerable older adults in eastern Montgomery County. Merck Charitable Foundation Awarded $25,000 in general operating support. The Pew Charitable Trusts Awarded a three-year, $126,000 grant to support Legal Aid s Elder Law work in its local offices and on the central telephone intake unit. The Philadelphia Foundation Awarded $40,000 in general operating support. These grants are directed to highperforming nonprofits in the Delaware Valley, with priority given to organizations who can demonstrate that at least 1/3 of those served are very low-income people. Univest Bank Awarded $2,500 in general operating support. Local United Ways UW of Bucks Co. awarded $25,000 in funding for financial stability and protection from abuse. UW of Chester Co. awarded $20,900 in funding for consumer education and financial independence. UW of Southern Chester Co. awarded $8,300 for free legal assistance for low-income and vulnerable residents A Publication of Legal Aid of Southeastern Pennsylvania 3
6 Bucks County 108 N. Main Street Doylestown, PA Veterans Hwy, Box 809 Bristol, PA Chester County 222 N. Walnut Street West Chester, PA E. Lincoln Highway Coatesville, PA Delaware County 410 Welsh Street Chester, PA Montgomery County 625 Swede Street Norristown, PA King Street Pottstown, PA NON-PROFIT U.S. POSTAGE PAID LEVITTOWN, PA PERMIT NO. 436 Free Legal Help Legal Aid of Southeastern PA provides free civil legal services for low-income residents of Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery counties. LASP Helpline Mon-Fri, 9 am-1pm TOLL-FREE Legal Aid also provides help with mortgage foreclosure and predatory lending problems. Don t Borrow Trouble Helpline Mon-Thu, 9am-1pm TOLL-FREE Se habla español. LASP offers educational brochures on these topics. To order copies, in English or Spanish, call the Helpline. Advance Healthcare Declaration Bankruptcy Child Support Credit Reports Custody Deposits Divorce and Separation Evictions Food Stamps Issues in Aging Landlord/Tenant Law Security LIHEAP Medical Assistance Power of Attorney Preventing Foreclosure Protection from Abuse Public Housing Repossessions Social Security Unemployment Comp Utility Law Community Education and Outreach LASP offers community legal education, staff in-service training and outreach about our services to a variety of groups in our four-county region. To schedule a LASP respresentative for an upcoming event, call Harvey Strauss, Esq. at x117.
THE. Protecting Domestic Violence Victims. Volume 5, issue 2 FALL 2009. Serving Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery Counties Since 2001
Volume 5, issue 2 FALL 2009 Voice THE Serving Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery Counties Since 2001 Mission Our mission at LASP is to provide quality legal representation to lowincome people, to
More informationWhen you file a custody action, the courts will generally determine both legal custody and physical custody.
5. Child Custody What is child custody? Child Custody is the legal right to keep, control, guard, and care for a minor child and includes the terms legal custody and physical custody. Pennsylvania law
More informationCOUNTY OF HUNTINGDON
COUNTY OF HUNTINGDON OBTAINING A CUSTODY ORDER CUSTODY COMPLAINT This form is to be used to obtain a custody order in Huntingdon County, if no previous custody order has been entered in Huntingdon County
More informationBoston ElderINFO. Suffolk County Legal Resources
Boston ElderINFO Suffolk County Legal Resources Boston ElderINFO makes no statements about the quality of the service provided by the listings in this booklet and cannot be held responsible for the quality
More informationSouth Carolina. The information below applies only to South Carolina. 1. How can I find out if I have a IV-D child support case in this state?
South Carolina Office of Child Support Enforcement Administration for Children & Families U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Changing a Child Support Order in Your State The information below
More informationHaley A. Schwartz, Esq. Director, Cancer Legal Initiative & Breast Cancer Legal Project Atlanta Legal Aid Society, Inc. Goals of our discussion: Brief background about the Atlanta Legal Aid Society Inspire
More informationHANDBOOK FOR NONCUSTODIAL PARENTS
HANDBOOK FOR NONCUSTODIAL PARENTS INTRODUCTION The purpose of this handbook is to inform noncustodial parents about paternity establishment and child support services. The Office of the Attorney General
More informationabortion young women s in pennsylvania guide to w w w. w o m e n s l a w p ro j e c t. o rg you aren t alone:
you aren t alone: young women s guide to abortion in pennsylvania 2,428 teens 17 and younger had abortions in Pennsylvania in 2000. An estimated 43% of American women will have at least one abortion by
More informationChild Abuse, Child Neglect. What Parents Should Know If They Are Investigated
Child Abuse, Child Neglect What Parents Should Know If They Are Investigated Written by South Carolina Appleseed Legal Justice Center with editing and assistance from the Children s Law Center and the
More informationChildren s Medical Programs
Need help completing a Children s Medical application? 1. Make sure you send in the following: Proof of U.S. citizenship or alien status only for the child(ren) in your household that are applying for
More informationDomestic Violence: Can the Legal System Help Protect Me?
Domestic Violence: Can the Legal System Help Protect Me? What is domestic violence? Domestic violence is a pattern of physically and/or emotionally abusive behavior used to control another person with
More informationLEGAL SERVICES COUNTY OF SANTA CLARA Law Offices of the Public Defender 120 West Mission Street San Jose, CA 95110 (408) 299-7700
LEGAL SERVICES COUNTY OF SANTA CLARA Law Offices of the Public Defender 120 West Mission Street San Jose, CA 95110 (408) 299-7700 Expungement Program (call for appointment) The expungement program allows
More informationAllegheny County. Beaver County. Butler County. Lawrence County. About Reduced-Fee Referral Programs
www.nlsa.us About Reduced-Fee Referral Programs NLSA s Reduced-Fee Referral Programs present opportunities for attorneys to provide a public service by rendering legal services to persons who could not
More informationINFORMATION ON PROTECTION FROM ABUSE (PFA) IN PHILADELPHIA COUNTY
INFORMATION ON PROTECTION FROM ABUSE (PFA) IN PHILADELPHIA COUNTY Important Things to Remember for Your PFA Hearing Serve PFA documents on the defendant before the hearing (see page 6). Go to your PFA
More informationTHE BASICS Custody and Visitation in New York State
THE BASICS Custody and Visitation in New York State This booklet answers common questions about custody and visitation when the parents cannot agree about who is responsible for taking care of the children.
More informationHow to Become a Probate Guardian of a Child in San Francisco
How to Become a Probate Guardian of a Child in San Francisco Written by San Francisco Superior Court Probate Department The following people and organizations have made this book possible: Honorable John
More informationDomestic Violence Resource Guide for Mecklenburg County Including Information about Domestic Violence Protective Orders
Domestic Violence Resource Guide for Mecklenburg County Including Information about Domestic Violence Protective Orders Qualifications for a DV Protective Order (50B) 1. Must be a resident of Mecklenburg
More informationStatutory Rape: What You Should Know
Statutory Rape: What You Should Know 2013 Why Do You Need To Read This? Many teens are concerned about the laws regarding something commonly called statutory rape. This brochure will explain what statutory
More information(photo representative of client)
(photo representative of client) Susan F., a single mother of three small children, ages seven, three and one applied for a job driving a bus. This job would work perfectly with her children s schedules
More informationThe Basics of Probate
What is the Purpose of this Guide? Philadelphia VIP prepared this guide to help distribute basic legal information to the community at large. While the information contained in this guide concerns legal
More informationInvoluntary Mental Health Commitments
3710 LANDMARK DRIVE, SUITE 208, COLUMBIA, SC 29204 (803) 782 0639; FAX (803) 790-1946 TOLL FREE IN SC: 1-866-275-7273 (VOICE) AND 1-866-232-4525 (TTY) E-mail: info@pandasc.org Website: www.pandasc.org
More informationErasing Your Criminal Record: How to Get a Pardon in Pennsylvania
Erasing Your Criminal Record: How to Get a Pardon in Pennsylvania June 2013 2 WHAT IS A PARDON? A pardon is an act by the Governor of Pennsylvania that erases a conviction from your criminal record. In
More informationWhy Pro Bono? Ways to Help: How you can help NLSA today. Help Your Community. New Initiatives
WAYS TO HELP VOLUNTEER ATTORNEY OPPORTUNITIES www.nlsa.us Why Pro Bono? When you join the fight to make equal access to justice a reality by volunteering your time and financially supporting NLSA, you
More informationProtective Orders in Virginia A Guide for Victims
Protective Orders in Virginia A Guide for Victims Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services www.dcjs.virginia.gov This brochure is intended to provide summary information regarding family abuse
More informationUnderstanding Nebraska's Protection Orders
Understanding Nebraska's Protection Orders A guide for victims, law enforcement and service providers. What is a Protection Order? A protection order is a special type of order issued by a Judge which
More informationIssue Brief. Arizona State Senate LEGAL DECISION-MAKING AND PARENTING TIME INTRODUCTION DETERMINING LEGAL DECISION-MAKING AND PARENTING TIME
Arizona State Senate Issue Brief January 17, 2014 Note to Reader: The Senate Research Staff provides nonpartisan, objective legislative research, policy analysis and related assistance to the members of
More informationBucks County Domestic Relations Section
Bucks County Domestic Relations Section Wants You To Get Informed Be Informed Stay Informed What s Inside Director s Message 1 Family Violence 2 Available Services 3 Support Conferences 4 Paying Support
More informationWHAT BANKRUPTCY CAN T DO
A decision to file for bankruptcy should only be made after determining that bankruptcy is the best way to deal with your financial problems. This brochure cannot explain every aspect of the bankruptcy
More informationTHE BASICS Changing Your Name and Social Security Number in New York State
THE BASICS Changing Your Name and Social Security Number in New York State WHY WOULD I WANT TO CHANGE MY NAME? You can change your name for any reason. Sometimes, when a person has been harassed or abused,
More informationLEGAL AID AVAILABLE TO QUALIFIED CANDIDATES
LEGAL AID AVAILABLE TO QUALIFIED CANDIDATES Pro Bono Center Allegheny County Bar Foundation Legal Services Directory (http://www.nlsa.us/resources/links/information_resources/legal_services_directory.p
More informationUTAH LEGAL SERVICES, INC. Core Case Service Priorities December 2014
UTAH LEGAL SERVICES, INC. Core Case Service Priorities December 2014 ULS uses three basic criteria to determine whether a prospective client will receive assistance: the prospective client must be financially
More informationNew York State Senate Judiciary Committee. Hearing on Spousal Maintenance Calculations September 24, 2013
New York State Senate Judiciary Committee Hearing on Spousal Maintenance Calculations September 24, 2013 Written Testimony of the New York Legal Assistance Group (NYLAG) Good afternoon and thank you for
More informationI m behind in my mortgage payments, what should I do?
FORECLOSURES This handout was prepared by Legal Services of Greater Miami, Inc.(LSGMI) with support from the Institute for Foreclosure Legal Assistance. LSGMI represents homeowners in foreclosure and homeowners
More informationThe Prudential Insurance Company of America
The Prudential Insurance Company of America Record Keeping Services PO Box 13676 Philadelphia, PA 19176 (800) 778-3827 Dear New City of Chicago Employee: The City of Chicago is committed to offering a
More informationINSTRUCTIONS FOR FILING YOUR MODIFICATION OF CHILD SUPPORT
INSTRUCTIONS FOR FILING YOUR MODIFICATION OF CHILD SUPPORT A modification of child support is allowed if the parties can show a change in income or financial status. If the parties agreed on child support
More informationTubman Legal Services Volunteer and Referral Attorney Application
Tubman Legal Services Volunteer and Referral Attorney Application Name Office Address Office Phone ( ) Date ZIP FAX ( ) Firm Cell Phone* ( ) *This number will not be given to clients! Multiple Office Location
More informationDivorce. Consumer Pamphlet Series
Divorce Consumer Pamphlet Series Foreword Divorce affects, directly or indirectly, virtually every family in the country. The following information is designed to briefly summarize Georgia s divorce laws.
More informationDeborah Langehennig Chapter 13 Trustee
Deborah Langehennig Chapter 13 Trustee Send only plan payments to: PO Box 298 Memphis, TN 38101-0298 Send only correspondence to: 3801 Capital of Texas Hwy South, Suite 320 Austin, TX 78704 www.ch13austin.com
More informationWhat is DOMESTIC VIOLENCE?
What is DOMESTIC VIOLENCE? Domestic violence is a pattern of control used by one person to exert power over another. Verbal abuse, threats, physical, and sexual abuse are the methods used to maintain power
More informationRequest for Proposals
GEORGIA BAR FOUNDATION, INC. Request for Proposals In April of 2015, the Georgia Bar Foundation, Inc. ( GBF or the Bar Foundation) received a check in the amount of $878,787.40 as a result of a settlement
More informationAn electronic version of this document is available at: www.extension.umn.edu/parentsforever
1 W1 We Agree: Creating a Parenting Plan Parenting Agreement Worksheet Minnesota Version This worksheet will help parents put together a parenting plan that meets the needs of their children as they parent
More informationCHILD PROTECTIVE SERVICES (CPS) and DEPENDENCY ACTIONS. The Role of CPS
CHILD PROTECTIVE SERVICES (CPS) and DEPENDENCY ACTIONS If you are involved with Child Protective Services, but no court action has been filed, see the first section of this memo, The Role of CPS. Legal
More informationChild Abuse, Child Neglect:
Child Abuse, Child Neglect: What Out of Home Caregivers Should Know if They Are Investigated Written by South Carolina Appleseed Legal Justice Center With editing and assistance from the Children s Law
More informationHow To Divorce In Arizona
DIVORCE General Information Packet#1 Are you heading for a Divorce? This first packet of information will give you an overall view of what is needed in order for you to get a divorce. You will find out
More informationNon-Custodial Parent Rights in South Carolina July 2010
Non-Custodial Parent Rights in South Carolina July 2010 The legal information in this publication is designed to help you learn about the laws that apply when you have a child and you are not married to
More informationDOMESTIC VIOLENCE RESTRAINING ORDER RESPONDENT PACKET
SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA COUNTY OF SAN DIEGO DOMESTIC VIOLENCE RESTRAINING ORDER RESPONDENT PACKET FORMS INCLUDED IN THIS PACKET How Can I Respond to a Request for Domestic Violence Restraining Order?
More informationHow to Enroll a Child in Public School
How to Enroll a Child in Public School Education Law Center The Philadelphia Building 1315 Walnut Street, 4th Floor Philadelphia, PA 19107-4717 Phone: 215-238-6970 Education Law Center 702 Law & Finance
More informationThe following school personnel is authorized to initiate an evacuation: Admissions Directors, School Director and Instructors.
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES Campbell Center Plan The Campbell Center complex is equipped with fire alarms, voice communication in each fire alarm zone, and constant monitoring of sprinkler systems, alarm devices,
More informationCONTEMPT OF CUSTODY ORDER SELF-HELP KIT
LYCOMING COUNTY CONTEMPT OF CUSTODY ORDER SELF-HELP KIT REMEMBER The law often changes. Each case is different. This self-help kit is meant to give you general information and not to give you specific
More informationFAQ s for Defense Attorneys Community-Based Domestic Violence Advocates: A Resource for Battered Women Charged with Crimes
FAQ s for Defense Attorneys Community-Based Domestic Violence Advocates: A Resource for Battered Women Charged with Crimes The content for this article was developed by a group of attorneys and community-based
More informationSTAYING HEALTHY. A Guide to Keeping Health Insurance After Divorce. Office of Attorney General Tom Reilly and Health Law Advocates
STAYING HEALTHY A Guide to Keeping Health Insurance After Divorce Office of Attorney General Tom Reilly and Health Law Advocates November 2002 A Message from Attorney General Tom Reilly Going through a
More information3. You can complete this form to apply for our help. To submit this paper application you can:
Montana Legal Services Association Application for Assistance HOW TO APPLY FOR HELP: 1. You can call MLSA s HelpLine at: 1-800-666-6899 The HelpLine is answered Monday Friday from 7:30 am to 6:00 pm. Sometimes
More informationChild Custody Over Seas
7 th JMTC Legal Assistance Information Child Custody Over Seas Please note that this Information Paper only provides basic information and is not intended to serve as a substitute for personal consultations
More informationCURRENT LEGAL CLINICS OFFERED IN WEST TENNESSEE
CURRENT LEGAL CLINICS OFFERED IN WEST TENNESSEE Contact the Pro Bono Coordinator at ATJInfo@tncourts.gov if you know of a clinic that is not included in this list or if you have updated information for
More informationWHAT LEGAL HELP IS AVAILABLE IF I CAN'T AFFORD TO HIRE AN ATTORNEY?
RESOURCES WHAT LEGAL HELP IS AVAILABLE IF I CAN'T AFFORD TO HIRE AN ATTORNEY? Pro bono services are legal services provided by attorneys who are volunteering their time "pro bono publico," or "for the
More informationWHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT. Domestic Violence and Mediation
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT Domestic Violence and Mediation What is mediation? Mediation is a way of working out differences in a divorce or a custody case (see parental rights and responsibilities below)
More informationBankruptcy: What You Need to Know in Maryland
Bankruptcy Bankruptcy: What You Need to Know in Maryland MLA :: 1-color logo :: PMS 1807c Advancing Human Rights and Justice for All in Maryland since 1911 Maryland Legal Aid: Who We Are This brochure
More informationHow To Win Your Fair Hearing
How To Win Your Fair Hearing The Legal Aid Society The Legal Aid Society's Public Benefits Education Project This Booklet was made possible by funds from the Charles H. Revson Foundation. The statements
More informationTioga county DIVORCE WHERE PARTIES CONSENT TO THE DIVORCE AND NO PROPERTY NEEDS TO BE DIVIDED. Self help divorce kit
Tioga county DIVORCE WHERE PARTIES CONSENT TO THE DIVORCE AND NO PROPERTY NEEDS TO BE DIVIDED Self help divorce kit IT IS STRONGLY RECOMMENDED THAT YOU CONSULT AN ATTORNEY!! DISCLAIMER THE STAFF IN ANY
More informationACCELERATED REHABILITATIVE DISPOSITION APPLICATION
OFFICE OF THE WARREN COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY WARREN COUNTY COURT HOUSE 204 Fourth Avenue WARREN, PENNSYLVANIA 16365 Phone 814-728-3460 FAX 814-728-3483 ACCELERATED REHABILITATIVE DISPOSITION APPLICATION
More informationTexas Paternity Law: Frequently Asked Questions
Texas Paternity Law: Frequently Asked Questions This brochure answers basic questions about Texas paternity law. It is not a substitute for the help and advice of a lawyer. Talk to a lawyer if you have
More informationLandlord/Tenant Issues for Survivors of Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, and/or Stalking
Landlord/Tenant Issues for Survivors of Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, and/or Stalking Introduction Tenants who are victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, unlawful harassment or stalking now
More informationGetting a Trial Date in Cowlitz County
9950EN 6/2015 Getting a Trial Date in Cowlitz County Is this publication for me? Yes, if You have a civil case in Cowlitz County Superior Court AND The respondent/defendant in the case has filed a response
More informationAtlanta Bar Association LAWYER REFERRAL & INFORMATION SERVICE 229 Peachtree Street, Suite 400 Atlanta, Georgia 30303
Atlanta Bar Association LAWYER REFERRAL & INFORMATION SERVICE 229 Peachtree Street, Suite 400 Atlanta, Georgia 30303 Please complete all information on the application, including the waiver. Should you
More informationBANKRUPTCY SOME FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
BANKRUPTCY SOME FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS 1 You should file for bankruptcy only after carefully deciding that bankruptcy is the best way to deal with your financial problems. This pamphlet
More informationDo You Have A Criminal Conviction History? A GUIDE TO YOUR EMPLOYMENT RIGHTS IN NEW YORK
Do You Have A Criminal Conviction History? A GUIDE TO YOUR EMPLOYMENT RIGHTS IN NEW YORK Introduction Searching for the right job can be difficult. It can be harder if you have a criminal conviction history,
More informationSyracuse University College of Law Pro Bono Program Guidebook
Syracuse University College of Law Pro Bono Program Guidebook Pro Bono Defined: The origin of word Pro Bono comes from the Latin phrase pro bono publico, which means for the public good. Pro Bono services
More informationUTAH LEGAL SERVICES SOCIAL RETURN ON INVESTMENT SUMMARY
UTAH LEGAL SERVICES SOCIAL RETURN ON INVESTMENT SUMMARY Utah Legal Services (ULS) operates 4 offices throughout Utah providing free civil legal services to qualified low-income people who would not otherwise
More informationLegal Information for Same Sex Couples
Community Legal Information Association of Prince Edward Island, Inc. Legal Information for Same Sex Couples People in same sex relationships often have questions about their rights and the rights of their
More informationIf you are emancipated, you will give up the right to be supported by your parents. Even if you are emancipated some things will not change:
July 2014 ALSP Law Series Emancipation Packet What is emancipation? Emancipation is a legal way for children to become adults before they're 18. A child s parents no longer have custody over someone who
More informationEXPUNGEMENT A GUIDE TO EXPUNGING YOUR CRIMINAL AND/OR JUVENILE RECORD
EXPUNGEMENT A GUIDE TO EXPUNGING YOUR CRIMINAL AND/OR JUVENILE RECORD Student Legal Services The Pennsylvania State University 120 Boucke Building University Park, PA 16802 Phone: 814-867-4388 Fax: 814-863-7357
More informationNOTICE TO GRANDPARENT
A Power of Atrney may be created if the parent, guardian, or cusdian of the child is any of the following: 1. Seriously ill, incarcerated, or about be incarcerated 2. Temporarily unable provide financial
More informationInformation About How to File Papers In Essex Probate and Family Court
Information About How to File Papers In Essex Probate and Family Court A Family Law Handbook Series Produced by Neighborhood Legal Services through the generous support of the Massachusetts Bar Foundation
More informationDomestic Violence Case Management Plan
Domestic Violence Case Management Plan From the commencement of litigation to its resolution, whether by trial or settlement, it is the goal of this Court to reduce delay and enable just and efficient
More informationThoughts on Supporting Healthy Dependents Using Funds from a Disabled Parent s or Spouse s Special Needs Trust
Thoughts on Supporting Healthy Dependents Using Funds from a Disabled Parent s or Spouse s Special Needs Trust David Lillesand, Esq. www.floridaspecialneedslaw.com (305) 670-6999 The issue. Can the Trustee
More informationINSTRUCTIONS FOR FILING A PETITION FOR LEGITIMATION AND CUSTODY/VISITATION
INSTRUCTIONS FOR FILING A PETITION FOR LEGITIMATION AND CUSTODY/VISITATION GENERAL COMMENTS This is the form packet for a biological father of a child born out of wedlock to file on his own a Petition
More informationFull Name of Child Present Address Sex Date of Birth
District Court Juvenile Court County, Colorado Court Address: In re: The Marriage of: Parental Responsibilities concerning: Petitioner: and Co-Petitioner/Respondent: Attorney or Party Without Attorney
More informationFORECLOSURE. I don t think I can make my mortgage payments but I don t want to go through a foreclosure. What are some of my options?
FORECLOSURE When you borrow money to buy a house or land, the creditor usually takes a security interest in the property you buy. This means that if you don t pay, the creditor can foreclose upon (or take
More informationSPECIAL OPTIONS SERVICES PROGRAM UNITED STATES PRETRIAL SERVICES AGENCY EASTERN DISTRICT OF NEW YORK
SPECIAL OPTIONS SERVICES PROGRAM UNITED STATES PRETRIAL SERVICES AGENCY EASTERN DISTRICT OF NEW YORK February 4, 2013 1 I. Introduction The Special Options Services (SOS) Program was established in the
More informationWhat Quality Housing Must Landlords Provide? When a Landlord Fails to Obey Housing Codes
What Quality Housing Must Landlords Provide? Florida law requires your landlord to comply with the building, housing, and health codes of the city or county where you live. Your landlord must keep your
More informationINSTRUCTIONS FOR CUSTODY BY A THIRD PARTY
INSTRUCTIONS FOR CUSTODY BY A THIRD PARTY YOU MAY NEED AN ATTORNEY IF: 1. The case is contested and your opponent has a lawyer. 2. You cannot find your opponent to serve him or her with your papers. 3.
More informationLegalShield Service Definition Listing
LegalShield Service Definition Listing Advice & Consultation Attorney Advice & Consultation LegalShield gives the member the ability to talk to an attorney on any of his/her legal matters without worrying
More informationCRIMINAL RECORD AND ABUSE HISTORY VERIFICATION
WHEN AND HOW TO FILE CRIMINAL RECORD AND ABUSE HISTORY VERIFICATION When did this form go into effect? September 2013 Who must file this form? Anyone who files a "Complaint for Custody" or a "Petition
More informationAlbany County Bar Association
Albany County Bar Association Snapshot of Accomplishments, 2010-2011 The Albany County Bar Association (ACBA) is able to offer a variety of programs and services to our members and the community. As an
More informationInvoluntary Discharges and Transfers from
Nursing Home Residents Involuntary Discharges and Transfers from Nursing Homes: Know Your Rights MLA :: 1-color logo :: PMS 1807c Advancing Human Rights and Justice for All in Maryland since 1911 Maryland
More informationTHE COCHISE COUNTY ATTORNEY GUIDE TO ADOPTION PROCEEDINGS
THE COCHISE COUNTY ATTORNEY GUIDE TO ADOPTION PROCEEDINGS The Cochise County Attorney s Office may be able to serve as your attorney in an adoption proceeding involving a minor child or children. For representation
More informationESTABLISH LEGAL DECISION MAKING (CUSTODY), PARENTING TIME and CHILD SUPPORT
ESTABLISH LEGAL DECISION MAKING (CUSTODY), PARENTING TIME and CHILD SUPPORT 1 To Get The First Court Order When Paternity has already been legally established (Part 1: Forms and Instructions) Superior
More information"party" -- a person named in a Complaint (the Plaintiff or Defendant).
PRO SE DIVORCE These forms, information and instructions have been developed so you will not need a lawyer to file for a no fault consensual divorce. You may file legal papers and appear in court by yourself.
More informationPhiladelphia Bar Association LAWYER REFERRAL AND INFORMATION SERVICE OPERATING RULES
Philadelphia Bar Association LAWYER REFERRAL AND INFORMATION SERVICE OPERATING RULES 1. PURPOSE 1.1 The purpose of the Lawyer Referral and Information Service (LRIS) is to provide a public service to the
More informationNon-custodial parent This is the parent who does not have primary physical custody of the child.
A GUIDE TO LEGAL ISSUES FOR N ON-CUSTODIAL PARENTS THIS BOOKLET EXPLAINS LEGAL TERMS AND SOM E GENERAL LAWS. IT IS NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR HIRING A LAWYER. IN ORDER TO FULLY UNDERSTAND AND PROTECT YOUR LEGAL
More informationIn March, 2012, Judge Robinson was appointed to fill the Third Circuit Court vacancy.
JUDGE PHILLIP ROBINSON 3rd Circuit Court Room 611 I. BRIEF BIOGRAPHY Judge Phillip Robinson is a lifelong Nashvillian having graduated from Montgomery Bell Academy in 1968, the University of Tennessee
More information7. MY RIGHTS IN DEALING WITH CRIMINAL LAW AND THE GARDAÍ
7. MY RIGHTS IN DEALING WITH CRIMINAL LAW AND THE GARDAÍ 7.1 Victim of a crime What are my rights if I have been the victim of a crime? As a victim of crime, you have the right to report that crime to
More informationBankruptcy Questions. FAQ > Bankruptcy Questions WHAT IS CHAPTER 7 BANKRUPTCY?
FAQ > Bankruptcy Questions Bankruptcy Questions WHAT IS CHAPTER 7 BANKRUPTCY? Chapter 7 bankruptcy is sometimes called a straight bankruptcy or a liquidation proceeding. The number one goal in an individual
More informationThe Nuts and Bolts of Divorce
The Nuts and Bolts of Divorce Many young attorneys who are looking to establish their own clientele will find opportunities to represent a client in a divorce. Even if you do not have any desire to handle
More informationDivorce in Florida CAN YOUR MARRIAGE BE SAVED? Before you take any legal steps to end your marriage, you should make sure that you have tried all possible ways to save it. Do you want professional help
More informationFREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT CHILD SUPPORT
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT CHILD SUPPORT MISSION STATEMENT The Child Support Division in the Office of the Attorney General assists parents in obtaining the financial support necessary for children
More informationUNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT EASTERN DISTRICT OF VIRGINIA Norfolk/Newport News Division
UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT EASTERN DISTRICT OF VIRGINIA Norfolk/Newport News Division INFORMATION ON REPRESENTING YOURSELF (PRO SE) IN A CIVIL ACTION INTRODUCTION The following instructions have been
More informationGuide For Advocates Working With Immigrant Victims of Domestic Violence
Guide For Advocates Working With Immigrant Victims of Domestic Violence Created by the Domestic Violence Coordinating Council October 2009 This guide is intended to provide information to advocates working
More informationRights & Options When You Owe Money
Are you 60 or over? If yes, free legal assistance is available. If you have a debt collection or other consumer problem, please call Consumer Law Project for Elders 1-800-296-1467 Call SLS for help if
More informationSeeking Protection from Domestic Violence in New York s. Information for Immigrant Victims with Limited English Proficiency
Seeking Protection from Domestic Violence in New York s Family Court: Information for Immigrant Victims with Limited English Proficiency What is domestic violence? If your current or former intimate partner
More information