Filed for divorce but wife served me first with a different divorce case

In interstate divorces, jurisdiction to proceed with the divorce normally goes to the party who succeeds first in both filing and serving. You...

Afraid my ex wife won't follow the custody order, what are my options?

If the mom does not return your daughter at the end of her visitation, you should file a petition for a writ of habeas corpus, and a motion for...

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Modifying my parenting plan advice

You should have an experienced family attorney review the parenting plan and interview you before taking action. It does sound, however, like you...

For WA state, does who files for legal separation/divorce make a big difference in determining custody of children?

Sometimes there are tactical advantages to filing first, but in the long run in most cases the facts of the case outweigh this tactical advantage....

I have a pre trial hearing for my child custody case. Do I need a lawyer? The respondent will not show up.

You are not required to have an attorney at your pretrial hearing. At the hearing the judge normally tries to find out the issues for trial, and...

What legal rights does my family have against another family member interfering with the care of a minor?

Your parents have legal custody, and can enforce their rights if necessary by asking the police to retrieve your sister. See my AVVO Legal Guides...

Is there such a thing as a contract that grants full custody to both (unmarried) parties in the event of a separation?

An agreement between parents about custody and visitation is not enforceable in court unless it has been signed by a judge and filed in the court....

How do court cases go in international marriages when one parent plans to take the child overseas while they have child custody?

You should file a petition for divorce and a motion for emergency orders to prevent your husband from taking your daughter to Taiwan. See my AVVO...

What do I need to do to adopt my pregnant friend's baby?

See my AVVO Legal Guides adoption for information about the legal issues raised by your inquiry. The biological father has to be served with the...

What happens if the custodial parent does not show up to our custody hearing tomorrow regarding a parenting plan?

If the mom fails to appear at a custody hearing, the court should grant your motion or petition. If she then refuses to obey the court order, you...