Entries by Karen Ulmer

Top six mistakes made when preparing will

While proper estate planning is essential, mistakes do happen. Below are the TOP FIVE some common mistakes: 1. Conflicts between legal documents Many clients do not realize that some property does not transfer through the estate. For example, a deed supersedes the will. In other words, if the deed is titled as joint tenants with […]

Adoption – Other adult household members

Background checks are required for all prospective parents in an adoption matter. In Pennsylvania, there are three background checks that are required: Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance through the Department of Human Services, Pennsylvania Criminal Record Checks through the State Police, Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) Criminal Background Check through the Department of Welfare. These […]

Adoption Costs

There are numerous costs involved in an adoption action. The total amount of expenses will vary depending on the nature of the adoption. For example, a kinship or family adoption where the natural parent(s) are cooperating with the adoption will have different costs than a case where the adoption is contested by the natural parent(s) […]

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All Parenting Plans Are Not Equal

By Marsha Kline Pruett Parenting plans are about each parent’s desire for access to his or her children and an opportunity to be involved in the activities and responsibilities of parenting. The plans are all about time – how much and when. Download full article (PDF)

Termination and Adoption

Termination of a biological parent’s rights and adoption often go hand in hand. A prospective parent cannot adopt without termination of the biological parent’s rights. A biological parent cannot voluntarily terminate their rights or sign a child away without another party stepping in to adopt. The parental rights of a biological parent can be involuntarily […]

Consent of Adoptee

Before an adoption can be finalized, certain parties must consent to the adoption. Pursuant to 23 Pa. C.S. Section 2711, a consent must be signed by the following individuals where applicable: (1) the child(ren) being adopted if over 12 years of age; (2) the spouse of the adopting parent if that spouse is not also […]

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Grounds for Eviction

For a tenant to be evicted, the landlord may proceed on one or more of the following grounds: Nonpayment of Rent. For example, the tenant has failed to pay the current or prior months’ rent, and the rent is past due. Also, the tenant has failed to pay late fees. Termination of the term. For […]

How To Share

Source: Family Advocate, Vol. 33 Over the past couple of decades, we have become increasingly aware that children benefit from having both parents involved in their lives.   Download full article (PDF)

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Relocation Realities

By Leslie Ellen Shear Parents who are considering moving with their children after separation or divorce, and parents deciding whether to oppose the children’s move have a lot to think about. Download full article (PDF)