These days, everybody is connected to social media – and it can play an important role in personal relationships and development. But, how young is “too young” to have a social media presence? The use of social media can negatively affect a child’s well-being, privacy and safety, so including a social media clause in your co-parenting plan is simply a wise decision. Do you really need one? Right now, you and your co-parent may agree about what you should and should not be posting online about your child – but that can change. There’s been a big rise in “sharenting,” where parents give extensiv ..read more

Estate planning isn’t the most glamorous topic, but it’s crucial to ensure your loved ones are cared for after you’re gone. Unfortunately, many myths and misconceptions swirl around estate planning, leading to confusion and missed opportunities.  Let’s dispel some of these myths and shed light on the realities of estate planning in Pennsylvania. Myth #1: Estate plans are only for the wealthy This is a widespread misconception. Regardless of your net worth, an estate plan is essential. It allows you to have a voice in the distribution of your assets, care for your minor children and who ma ..read more

For quite a while now, studies on marriage and divorce have noticed that there’s a spike in the number of new divorces being filed in August – right as summer is in its final days. What’s the connection between the end of summer and divorce? It’s partially social and partially emotional, but the reality is that many marriages that are on shaky ground already simply won’t make it to autumn. Here’s why: 1. Summer vacation isn’t enough to fix the real problems A lot of couples convince themselves that fractures in their marriages can heal if given enough time away from the daily grind of everyday ..read more

Credit cards provide short-term financial options for covering costs in between paychecks. Credit cards can help cover unexpected expenses and unusual costs, ranging from car repairs to holiday gifts. Many families have multiple credit cards in use, some of which may offer cash back or other rewards based on spending habits. Individuals preparing for divorce may think about retaining valuable assets, like vehicles and homes. Financial obligations, including credit cards, often do not receive the same consideration in the early stages of divorce planning. Despite how easy they are to overlook ..read more

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