The Child Witness

It is very difficult for children to be witnesses in a trial. In order to determine if a child should testify in a trial, the attorney should consider numerous factors.

Adoption and Safe Families Act - Overview

In 1997, the United States Congress passed the Adoption and Safe Families Act (ASFA). The ASFA was enacted to modify and clarify certain requirements of the Adoption Assistance and Child Welfare Act, a federal law enacted in 1980, and the Family Preservation and Support Services Act, a federal law enacted in 1984.

Jurisdiction and Venue in Divorce Cases

Venue is the place, county, or geographical area that an action is brought. Jurisdiction deals with the proper court to hear the case and the court's power to hear the case. For purposes of a divorce action, the action is typically filed in the state where the parties have resided for a period of time prescribed by statute.

Minors and Medical Treatment - Parental Consent

Generally, parental consent is required before a minor can receive medical treatment. Most states define a minor as a person under the age of 18. State laws make an exception to the parental consent requirement in emergency situations. Minors can receive emergency medical treatment without parental consent.

Child Support Enforcement and Paternity Issues

At common law, a putative or alleged father of a child produced out of wedlock had no duty to support that child. However, the statutory law changed the common law and required both parents to support the child.