Posts by Larry Manassa
Classification of Marital Assets. Why It’s So Important?
Classification of marital assets determines which property is subject to division and which remains with each spouse individually. Improper classification can lead to unfair outcomes, where one party may lose valuable assets or face financial instability after the divorce. Achieving accurate classification is not always simple due to assets that are commingled, hidden, or difficult…
Read MoreWhat Is Child Custody?
Going through a custody dispute can be overwhelming for parents and emotionally draining for children. During separation or divorce, custody arrangements determine where a child will live, who makes important decisions, and the sharing of parental responsibilities. However, parents often face challenges such as disagreements over visitation schedules and disputes about decision-making authority. There are…
Read MoreCan I Change My Child’s Last Name Without the Other Parent’s Approval?
Changing a child’s last name is a deeply personal and sometimes emotionally charged decision. A parent may wish to legally change their child’s surname, whether due to divorce, remarriage, a desire for consistency in the family unit, or cultural reasons. However, this process is not always straightforward, especially when both parents share legal rights to…
Read MoreCan Grandparents Be Awarded Custody of Grandchildren?
Family structures are evolving, and in many households, grandparents play a vital role in raising children. Sometimes, due to unforeseen circumstances, such as parental illness, substance abuse, incarceration, or even death, grandparents may step in to care for their grandchildren full-time. In such cases, a question naturally arises: Can grandparents be awarded custody of their…
Read MoreCan Custody Agreements Be Changed?
Divorce and child custody agreements are designed to provide stability for families during difficult transitions. But life doesn’t stop changing after the ink dries on a custody order. New jobs, relocations, remarriages, changing schedules, or the evolving needs of children can all impact whether an existing custody agreement still serves a child’s best interests. What…
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