Family Law Basics

Whether you’re interested in learning more about appointing a legal guardian, protecting your rights as a parent, or learning about laws that affect you as a spouse, parent, or grandparent, you can find it in Family Law Basics.

Recent Stories

Are Parents Legally Responsible if Their Kid Is a Bully?
Sep 2010

Can you be held responsible if your kid is a bully? More and more states are enacting strict anti-bullying laws like "Phoebe's Law" in Massachusetts, named for a 15-year-old girl who killed herself after being bullied. These changes in the law may make parents wonder about their legal responsibilities for their children's behavior—and rightfully so. more...

Protect Your Children: Pick a Guardian
May 2010

A little effort now can save a world of painful problems in the future. Ensure that your kids will get the best childhood possible, no matter what.
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Sharing Fido: Does your state have pet custody laws?
Sep 2008

Conflicts over a pet can be just as important to divorcing spouses as any issue when both spouses have developed a special connection to a companion pet and wish to maintain it. This feeling can be even greater where the couple has no children, and the dog or cat has taken on the role of the couple's "child." But unlike real children, for which extensive case law and statutory measures exist, pets have been largely ignored as a critical concern in a divorce. more...

Having a Baby: Your Legal Rights and Responsibilities
Sep 2008

Having a baby is one of the most life changing events you will ever experience. So, once you get past the initial excitement about the impending baby, it is important to consider the practical matters of bringing a new life into the world - legal preparation. Read more to find out how you can protect yourself and your baby. more...