Inheritance as it Pertains to Legally Separated Surviving Spouses

 If you are legally separated from your spouse, are you entitled to inherit from his/her estate under intestate succession (laws applying to the estates of those who die without a will or trust)? Case Example In a recent case, a couple was legally separated when the husband died without a More...

A Minor's Capacity to Sue & be Sued

In most states, a minor is a person who has not yet reached the age of 18. Since a minor does not have the legal capacity to sue or be sued, a court generally appoints a "guardian ad litem" to act on the minor's behalf. The duties of a guardian More...
Determination of Child Support Obligation
 
At one time, child support payment amounts were set on a case-by-case basis. Federal Law now requires each state to have guideline formulas in place. Such statewide guidelines ensure uniformity, fairness and efficiency. Establishing Child Support Payment Levels Each state develops its guidelines by taking into account the parents' income More...
 
Mandatory Services for Disabled Children at Child Care Centers
 
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) states that all child care centers and their employees must accommodate disabled children. A child care center may not refuse a child because of the child's disability or of the parent's disability. A care center must make any necessary modifications to its rules and More...
 
Legal Separation & Divorce
 
In states that recognize legal separations, a husband or wife can petition the court to issue a decree that confers the rights and obligations of divorced persons without actually divorcing. While divorce legally ends a marriage, legal separation merely splits the relationship, leaving the marital status intact. As with divorce, More...