Entries by Karen Ulmer

Post Divorce Finances – Wrapping Up, Moving Forward

After your divorce you will have a new life to build. This may include finding a new place to live, transition your children to their new lives between homes, and becoming accustomed to your new home. While your emotions may be running high and you are excited about your future you need to be vigilant […]

Supervised Custody

23 Pa. C.S. 5322 defines all the different variations of custody. Physical custody is defined as “the actual physical possession and control of a child.” Physical custody can be supervised if warranted. Generally, the court is considering if the welfare and safety of the child necessitates supervision. If supervision is deemed to be necessary, you […]

One Step Closer to Shorter Divorces

Last November the House voted for the passage of Bill 380 which proposes amending Section 3301(d) of the Divorce Code to allow divorce on the basis of separation for a one year period as opposed to the current law which requires a two year separation period. Presently House Bill 380 is in the Senate and […]

Should You Keep Your Marital Home After the Divorce?

When you are getting a divorce and own a home with your spouse, you have a few options. One of you may decide to keep the marital home or you can sell it and both move on purchasing or renting another residence. You may love your home, your neighborhood, and want to keep it to […]

Summer Schedules

Now that warm weather is here and the school year is coming to a close, you may want to review your custody agreement to prepare for the summer months. Your standard schedule may change when the school year is over and you should make plans for that adjustment to go smoothly. If you have shared […]

Personal Perks

The issue of how personal perks are being paid often arises when dealing with a self-employed party. Examples of personal perks provided at the expense of the company may include cell phone payments, car payments or repairs, entertainment, meal expenses, travel expenses, country club dues, and other comparable expenses that primarily benefit the individual. These […]

Additional Expenses in Child Support

Child support in Pennsylvania is based on statewide guidelines established by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court. The guidelines are intended to ensure that similarly situated parties are treated similarly. Accordingly, all parties making $3000 per month with 3 kids would pay the same amount of support based on the guideline amounts. The guidelines are based on […]

Wills For Heroes – May 14, 2016

Bucks County has a “Wills for Heroes” event this upcoming Saturday, May 14, 2016. This is a program in conjunction with the Pennsylvania Bar Association that provides free wills, living wills, and powers of attorney to first responders and their spouses/significant others. Proof of military or public service affiliation is required. Appointments are required and […]

Estate Accounting

One of the most important duties of the executor or administrator is keeping an accurate accounting of the estate assets. Prior to distribution, an executor should prepare an accounting of all of the assets and liabilities of the estate, including all sources of assets (i.e. bank accounts, refunds, sale of real estate) and all liabilities […]

Do you need a will?

Do you need a will? Most people don’t think so, or don’t get around to it. While an estate can proceed without a will, i.e. by intestacy, a will can resolve many problems. For example, if you have minor children, a will can designate guardians in case both parents pass away. Likewise, you may appoint […]