Getting pulled over on suspicion of DUI can be scary. The flashing lights, sirens, and officer’s questions can make you forget everything you thought you knew. One of the first things you might be asked is to take a breathalyzer test. But should you? In Pennsylvania, there are consequences for refusing, but the test itself isn’t foolproof. Let’s break down what you need to know. Implied consent law in Pennsylvania Pennsylvania has an “implied consent” law. This means that by driving in the state, you automatically agree to submit to a chemical test, like a breathalyzer, if you’re arrested for ..read more

In Pennsylvania, the date that you and your spouse began living “separate and apart” can control everything from when you can actually get divorced to what is considered part of the marital estate. With rents skyrocketing and economics being what they are, a lot of couples find themselves in the uncomfortable position of needing to share living space even though their marriage is all but legally over. Fortunately, the court makes allowances for these situations. Separate households aren’t necessarily required Case law has long established that a couple doesn’t even have to live in the same hom ..read more

A marriage involves commitment on various levels, including financially. Spouses should retain some of their independence, but it’s important that both partners have access to the overall financial picture. If someone is in financial trouble, it is common for them to hide it in every way, even from their spouse. Is it possible that your spouse might be doing this? Have you been shut out? Previously, you and your spouse had reviewed your financial situation at regular intervals. Whether this was a chat at the dinner table or an afternoon in the home office reviewing bank statements, the communi ..read more

In Pennsylvania, divorce proceedings are subject to specific legal requirements, including a waiting period. This waiting period is an important part of the divorce process, impacting the timeline and procedures involved. Understanding the waiting period is essential for individuals navigating the complexities of divorce in Pennsylvania. What is the waiting period? The waiting period refers to the time before a divorce can be finalized. In Pennsylvania, this waiting period is commonly known as the “cooling-off period.” It serves as a period of reflection and deliberation for couples ..read more

The loss of a family member is a deeply emotional experience. On top of the grief, many families are thrust into the unfamiliar territory of probate – the legal process of settling a deceased person’s estate. Probate can feel daunting, riddled with legalese and bureaucratic hurdles. But fear not; with clear communication and a collaborative approach, navigating probate can be less stressful than you might imagine. Open and honest communication Probate often involves sensitive topics like finances and inheritance, which can be difficult to bring up when the family is grieving. However, it’s cru ..read more

Aging is a privilege, but it is also a process fraught with personal challenges. Older adults experience numerous changes in their health ranging from a reduction in strength and flexibility to a change in their center of gravity. Some people experience decreased mobility later in life, while others might struggle with cognitive decline. All types of different age-related health issues can prevent someone from safely living on their own in their golden years. Many older adults eventually require the support of long-term care. Modern long-term care options include moving into a nursing home or ..read more

When Pennsylvania parents with minor children decide to divorce, their custody issues are often among the most hotly-contested aspects of their divorces. Parents may actively seek as much time as possible with their children and may find it impossible to cooperate with one another to set amicable custody terms. When custody matters go to trial, a family law judge decides how to split up parenting time and legal authority over the children. They look carefully at family circumstances to establish what should be in the best interests of the children. Occasionally, the children may need to play a ..read more

No two divorces are exactly the same. Every couple’s circumstances are different. While many divorces are settled relatively smoothly, others can be more complex. Recognizing some of the most common factors that can complicate divorce could help with your preparation. Outlined below are two things to consider. Child custody When children are involved, divorce becomes more complex. For parents and the courts, the best interests of the child will be the top priority. However, this can be complex because all parties may not agree exactly on what is in the best interests of the child. Deciding on ..read more

When you decide to get divorced, one of the first steps is to serve your spouse the divorce petition. You can do this yourself or you can hire someone else to do it for you. In any case, your spouse is officially given the paperwork so they know you want a divorce and they have to respond to it. When your spouse gets this petition, they will be told exactly how long they have to respond. In some cases, a person who does not want to get divorced may decide to drag their feet or procrastinate. They may even opt to ignore the divorce filing entirely. If you ask them why, it may become apparent th ..read more

It can be difficult to lose your job. It creates a lot of uncertainty and removes the stability that you previously enjoyed. Even if you know that you will eventually find another job, this can be a difficult position to find yourself in. It can also have an impact on many other areas of your life. For example, studies have found that divorce odds go up when a person loses their job. It is more likely that their marriage will end now that they are unemployed. This certainly doesn’t mean it happens in every case or even the majority, but just that the odds are technically higher. Creating finan ..read more