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Child Custody

Can a Stepparent Adopt a Child?

Stepparent adoption is sometimes a natural progression of marrying into a family with kids, especially when the child’s other biological parent is no longer in

Lawrence Viola April 22, 2026

Family Law

What Are Pleadings in Family Law?

When navigating the family court process, you may be met with a range of unfamiliar legal terms. “Pleadings” is one term that often arises during

Lawrence Viola April 18, 2026

Divorce

How Long Does a Divorce Court Hearing Last?

If you and your spouse cannot agree on all issues in your divorce, you may need to attend at least one court hearing to have

Lawrence Viola April 13, 2026

Child Custody

Four Differences Between a Petitioner and Respondent in Child Custody Cases

Many family law cases involve two main players: a petitioner and a respondent. Learn what it means to be a petitioner vs. a respondent in child

Lawrence Viola March 22, 2026

Family Law

Understanding Contempt of Court in Family Law

Child support and child custody orders aren’t just suggestions. They’re legal mandates for which a person can face penalties for violating. Contempt of court occurs

Lawrence Viola March 18, 2026

Divorce

What Happens if Your Spouse Refuses To Sign Divorce Papers?

The decision to file for divorce isn’t always a mutual one. You may have decided to initiate the divorce process, but your spouse isn’t on

Lawrence Viola March 13, 2026

Child Custody

Can Text Messages Be Used in Court for Child Custody?

Seeking child custody can be an extremely taxing process. You may know that your child’s other parent is unfit for full or even partial custody,

Lawrence Viola February 22, 2026

Family Law

What Is a Consent Order in Family Court?

Divorcing couples have a range of important decisions to make before finalizing their separation. In California, they have several methods of solidifying those decisions in

Lawrence Viola February 18, 2026

Divorce

How Bifurcation Works in a Divorce Case

Many divorcing couples prefer to finalize the divorce as quickly as possible. Yet numerous delays arise during these cases, from conflicts over property division to

Lawrence Viola February 13, 2026

Child Custody

Understanding Child Custody Evaluations

Some co-parents are able to devise a custody arrangement that suits them and their children. When parents can’t reach a resolution, the court may intervene.

Lawrence Viola January 22, 2026