The Law Dictionary for Everyone
A divorce lawyer is an attorney that specializes in family law, and has experience in issues of divorce, child custody and visitation, child support, and spousal support. Many individuals embroiled in a family law matter wonder whether they should retain the services of a divorce lawyer, and even whether it is required. While it is not required that any party […]
Read moreLiterally “parent of one’s country,” this Latin term refers to the inherent responsibility of the government, or of the court system, to protect people who cannot protect or care for themselves. The concept of parens patriae in the U.S. legal system most commonly applies to issues of child custody and protection, though it may also be used in protecting others […]
Read moreThe legal term conservatorship refers to the appointment of a guardian to manage the affairs of an individual who is physically or mentally unable to care for himself. A conservator is appointed by the court, and may be appointed to manage only the individual’s financial affairs, or to manage the individual’s “person,” seeing to the activities and needs of daily […]
Read moreAdult foster care is a system in which adults are placed into group or private homes where they are taken care of by caregivers. Adult foster care is typically arranged through governmental or private agencies, but it may be arranged by relatives who are unable to care for the adult in question. Adult foster care is often reserved for people […]
Read moreA no fault divorce is one in which neither spouse places blame on the other for the demise of the marriage. The couple seeking a no fault divorce merely has to assert that they are incompatible, or that irreconcilable differences exist. In a no fault divorce, the court grants the dissolution of marriage without requiring either party to show evidence […]
Read moreWhen a couple divorces, and the marital assets divided, many do not consider that a retirement fund belonging to either spouse is indeed part of their marital community property. To be more specific, that portion of the retirement account that was built up during the course of the marriage is community property. This necessitates complex calculations done by a specialized […]
Read moreParenting classes are educational courses parents attend to learn about caring for their children. Parents attend the classes based on court orders, or simply as a way to learn better parenting skills. Parenting classes are found all throughout the United States, and they cater to parents with children of all ages. The primary goals of parenting classes include improving relationships […]
Read moreIn the legal system, an Order to Show Cause is a court order requiring an individual or entity to explain, justify, or prove something. In the U.S., courts frequently use orders to show cause to initiate a court proceeding that needs to be heard outside the usual schedule, such as when a temporary order is being sought. In these cases, […]
Read moreThe Latin term “status quo” refers to the existing state of circumstances. In the legal system, a judge has the authority to issue a status quo order to prevent anyone from taking any action until the matter can be heard and resolved by the court. A status quo order preserves the existing situation, so that no party’s position can be […]
Read moreWhen a couple separates or divorces, the issue of child custody and visitation becomes very important. Many parents are able to work out an agreement regarding where the children will live, and visitation with the other parent on their own. Other parents find this to be a hot-button issue drenched in emotional pain, anger, and resentment, making it necessary for […]
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