Family Law Newsletters

An Overview of Voluntary Sterilization

There are various different methods of birth control available in the United States. One such method of birth control is voluntary sterilization. The process of sterilization is intended to be permanent in nature. In some instances sterilization may be reversed however reversal is not guaranteed once the sterilization process is completed. Sterilization may involve surgery and a hospital stay or may involve outpatient services.

Guardian Ad Litem

What is a guardian ad litem? A minor cannot be a party to a lawsuit without assistance. Therefore, when a minor is a party to a lawsuit, the court appoints a guardian ad litem to represent the minor.

Paternity Proceedings

Depending upon whether a state has adopted the Uniform Parentage Act or whether they have another state statute that governs, paternity proceedings may typically be commenced any time from after the child's birth or at any time for the purpose of declaring the existence of the father and child relationship. The action may also be commenced for the purpose of declaring the non-existence of the father and child relationship.

QDROs, Pension and Retirement Plan Division in Divorces

In a divorce, retirement benefits are typically subject to division between the parties. The division usually occurs by way of actual division or asset exchange. After the court has determined the actual division of the retirement benefit, a QDRO is issued. A QDRO is a judgment or order that recognizes the existence of the non-employee's right to receive a portion of the employee's retirement benefits.

Uniform Marriage and Divorce Act

The Uniform Marriage and Divorce Act (UMDA) is an extensive uniform law which provides standards governing marriage, divorce, property distribution, alimony, child support, and custody. Arizona, Colorado, Illinois, Kentucky, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana and Washington have adopted it. The major provisions eliminate fault divorces, eliminate traditional defenses to divorce, provide for equitable distribution of property in non-community property states, provides for distributing community property, provide for alimony only in specific circumstances, and base child support and custody on certain factors.