The history of courtroom wardrobe reflects societal norms and professional standards. Formal attire, such as robes and wigs, symbolized authority, impartiality, and respect for the judicial process in earlier centuries. Judges and lawyers wore these garments to convey their authority and neutrality. Over time, courtroom attire has evolved, becoming less formal but emphasizing professionalism and decorum. Today, courtroom dress codes vary by jurisdiction but generally require respectful, conservative, and dignified attire. The goal remains to uphold the judicial system’s integrity and convey pr ..read more

At the Law Offices of Sheryl R. Rentz, P.C., we work to protect children and help families become more secure. Sheryl wants everyone to have the opportunity to follow their dreams and pursue their goals. That’s why we’re pleased to announce the kickoff of this year’s $1500 college scholarship. Earning a four-year college degree has never been easy, and these days, aspiring students face all sorts of challenges. But with dedication and a lot of hard work, a college degree is a worthwhile and attainable goal. College is a wonderful place to meet all kinds of people and acquire knowledge and skil ..read more

Spouses may opt for divorce when they encounter insurmountable obstacles in their marriage. These challenges can strain the relationship, erode trust, and diminish emotional connection, making it difficult to sustain a healthy and fulfilling partnership. Unfortunately, adultery is not an uncommon reason for divorce. The topic brings up an array of emotional, legal, and psychological challenges. Understanding its implications is crucial for individuals going through the legal process of dissolving their marriage. Understanding Adultery as Grounds for Divorce The issue of adultery is a sensitive ..read more

During divorce and child custody disputes, a custody evaluation is a major factor that can significantly influence the final decision. This evaluation plays a key role in determining the best interests of the child and helps courts make informed decisions about custody arrangements. As a parent, you’ll want to make sure your custody evaluation goes as smoothly as possible. That’s why our family law team wants to shed light on the reasons for custody evaluations, how to prepare for them, make them positive, and common mistakes to avoid. Understanding Custody Evaluations When a court orders a cu ..read more

Deciding to end a marriage is a significant and often complex decision. Pennsylvania law has statutory provisions that recognize both no-fault and fault-based divorce grounds. Fault-based divorce grounds include: Willful and malicious desertion: The court may grant a divorce to the innocent and injured spouse if the other spouse has committed willful and malicious desertion, with absence from the habitation of the injured spouse, without reasonable cause for a period of one or more years. Adultery: Adultery is recognized as a ground for divorce in Pennsylvania. Cruel and barbarous treatment ..read more

Going through a divorce can be a challenging and complex process, especially for LGBTQ+ couples in Pennsylvania. There are several unique factors to consider, such as state laws, legal recognition, parental rights, property division, and the importance of social and emotional support. It’s crucial to understand these aspects to navigate the process successfully. Most importantly, don’t hesitate to speak with a knowledgeable LGBTQ+ divorce attorney about protecting your rights and assets. The Impact of Pennsylvania Laws and Regulations on LGBTQ+ Divorces Same-sex marriage is regulated under var ..read more

Even under the best circumstances, raising kids after a separation isn’t easy. Modern life is chaotic, and it can be challenging to arrange everyone’s schedules, including your children’s drop-offs and pick-ups from school, sports practice, extracurricular activities, and more. Co-parenting, also referred to as parallel parenting, is when parents who no longer have a romantic relationship with each other work together and communicate frequently to ensure their child’s needs and best interests are met. Communication is essential for co-parenting to be effective and for both parents to provide a ..read more

Pennsylvania divorce laws and trends are constantly changing. Lawmakers recently introduced a bill to make pet custody a part of Pennsylvania divorce cases. Representative Anita Astorino Kulik introduced House Bill 1108. If passed by the legislature, this proposed legislation will allow for divorce proceedings to resolve matters pertaining to pet custody. The bill proposes that Pennsylvania establish the following factors for family court judges to consider in deciding custody of pets: When the animal was acquired – before or during the marriage Basic daily needs of the pet Who generally faci ..read more

Most people enter into marriage with the idea of a lifetime commitment. When your partner says they want a divorce, it can be a shock and emotionally overwhelming. We offer a step-by-step guide on what to do immediately after this difficult revelation. By taking these steps, you can protect your rights, make informed decisions, and navigate the divorce process more effectively. Take the Time to Process Your Emotions Whether you sensed it coming or were blindsided by the news, it can be heartbreaking and devastating to hear your partner wants a divorce. Give yourself time to come to terms with ..read more

A marriage can only be dissolved through a divorce decree entered by the court. Although it is not common, there are some circumstances under which a Pennsylvania family court judge may decline a divorce. If you are facing divorce, it is important to seek professional guidance from an experienced Pennsylvania divorce attorney. What Types of Divorce Are Recognized in Pennsylvania? Pennsylvania recognizes three categories of divorce – mutual consent (no-fault), unconsented, and fault-based. No-fault: When both parties terminate a marriage by mutual consent, it is a no-fault divorce. The only re ..read more