×
Go back to Martindale-Avvo ➔

Pennsylvania Family Legal Questions

Want a good answer? Ask a thorough question starting with "Who, What, When, How, Will I or Do I".
Then, add details. This will help you get a quicker and better answer.
Question field is required
Explanation field is required
A valid US zip code is required Validating the Zip Code.
Question type field is required
Question type field is required
1
Ask a Question
2
Details
3
Submit
1
Ask a Question
2
Submit
Fullname is required
A valid email address is required.
Receive a follow-up from lawyers after your question is answered
A valid phone number is required
Select the best time for you to receive a follow-up call from a lawyer after your question is answered. (Required field)
to
Invalid Time

*Required fields

Question
Description
By submitting your question, you understand and agree to the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy for use of the site. Do not include any personal information including name, email or other identifying details in your question or question details. An attorney-client relationship is not being established and you are not a prospective client of any attorney who responds to your question. No question, answer, or discussion of any kind facilitated on this site is confidential or legal advice. Questions answered are randomly selected based on general consumer interest and not all are addressed. Questions may display online and be archived by Martindale-Hubbell.
277 legal questions have been posted about family law by real users in Pennsylvania. Ask your question and dive into the knowledge of attorneys who handle your issue regularly. Similar topics to explore also include adoptions, child custody, and child support. All topics and other states can be accessed in the dropdowns below.
Pennsylvania Family Questions & Legal Answers - Page 10
Do you have any Pennsylvania Family questions page 10 and need some legal advice or guidance? Ask a Lawyer to get an answer or read through our 277 previously answered Pennsylvania Family questions.
Family Law
Pennsylvania

Recent Legal Answers

i am trying to get married and my finace is incarcerated at sci dallas in pa..... we have to get a petition to order a video conference because he has

Answered 14 years ago by Ellen S. Kingsley (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Family
You really need to speak to specific attorneys about this, because there are many different answers depending on how the attorney bills and charges his/her fees.  Also, you are probably better off talking with criminal attorneys because I don't think many family law attorneys would know how to do this.... Read More
You really need to speak to specific attorneys about this, because there are many different answers depending on how the attorney bills and charges... Read More

do they have to list that i am paying my back child support to the credit agencys

Answered 14 years and a month ago by Ellen S. Kingsley (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Family
See other answer.  (Duplicate question.)
See other answer.  (Duplicate question.)

do they have to list that i am paying my back child support to the credit agencys

Answered 14 years and a month ago by Ellen S. Kingsley (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Family
Since the order is in Indiana, I can not answer your question as Indiana law would apply, not PA.  You should check with an Indiana attorney.
Since the order is in Indiana, I can not answer your question as Indiana law would apply, not PA.  You should check with an Indiana attorney.

I am a minor. My mom kicked me out. She will not give me my car back.

Answered 14 years and a month ago by Ellen S. Kingsley (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Family
This is an interesting question, but not sure it relates so well to family law.  I think that it is really more a question of criminal law and/or contract law.  Pennsylvania allows minors to own and register cars, yet they are not permitted to enter into a contract on their own behalf, so this is, in itself, contradictory.  While this is out of my purview, I would suggest having your father involve the police to arrange for you to get your car.  I do not believe that your mother can hold it, when it is titled in your name.  That said, you may do better to contact a criminal/civil attorney for advice on this subject.... Read More
This is an interesting question, but not sure it relates so well to family law.  I think that it is really more a question of criminal law... Read More

If a girl is 17 years old and the mother drinks and becomes verbally abusive can the girl leave the home at 17 yrs old and not be forced to return?

Answered 14 years and a month ago by Ellen S. Kingsley (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Family
No.  Under certain circumstances, the girl may be able to become emancipated, but generally, until she is 18, her parents can control (or attempt to control) where she resides.  Obviously, the girl may run away, but authorities can be called and juvenile detention can become a possibility.... Read More
No.  Under certain circumstances, the girl may be able to become emancipated, but generally, until she is 18, her parents can control (or... Read More

My wife who I have been serperated from for 2 years just got arrested for Child endangerment and has a preliminary hearing scheduled. What happens at

Answered 14 years and a month ago by Ellen S. Kingsley (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Family
You haven't completed your question, so I'm not sure what you're asking.
You haven't completed your question, so I'm not sure what you're asking.

My mother stole my sister''s and my inheritance from a trust fund my father''s father left us.

Answered 14 years and a month ago by Ellen S. Kingsley (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Family
It may be, but your situation is very complex.  This is not the forum to get answers.  You really need to speak to an attorney who practices in the area of wills, estates and trusts.
It may be, but your situation is very complex.  This is not the forum to get answers.  You really need to speak to an attorney who... Read More

Every year, the men in my family take a one week hunting vacation. My youngest son (8 yrs old) lives in PA w/his mother. His school says they allow a

Answered 14 years and a month ago by Ellen S. Kingsley (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Family
Probably, but as this is a very specialized area of the law, you should consult with a lawyer who specializes in education law.  You may want to ask the school for a copy of their regulations that allow for this fine.
Probably, but as this is a very specialized area of the law, you should consult with a lawyer who specializes in education law.  You may want to... Read More

Is a post nuptial agreement a good way to protect yourself financially for money earned during a marraige? What are the pros and cons?

Answered 14 years and 2 months ago by Ellen S. Kingsley (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Family
The possibilities your question raises are far too many to discuss in this forum.  Make an appointment with an attorney who practices family law.  Many offer free consultations.  It will be more than worth your time.
The possibilities your question raises are far too many to discuss in this forum.  Make an appointment with an attorney who practices family... Read More

If someone was a ordained minister over the internet in 2009 are they still legal to marry a couple?

Answered 14 years and 2 months ago by Ellen S. Kingsley (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Family
There is not a definitive answer on this one.  Last I knew it was technically legal to perform a marriage in PA with internet ordination (in fact, I performed one about 3 years ago), but you should check with your local court to find out if they accept marriages performed by someone with an internet ordination.  They will have the most current law on the matter.... Read More
There is not a definitive answer on this one.  Last I knew it was technically legal to perform a marriage in PA with internet ordination (in... Read More

can a 17 yr old with a child emancipate herself

Answered 14 years and 2 months ago by Ellen S. Kingsley (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Family
Yes, but she would need the court's approval.  She should see an attorney who specializes in Family Law to discuss this as there may be ways to get what she is seeking without emancipation.
Yes, but she would need the court's approval.  She should see an attorney who specializes in Family Law to discuss this as there may be ways to... Read More

What steps must be taken to remove a child support order in Pennsylvania?

Answered 14 years and 2 months ago by Ellen S. Kingsley (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Family
You would need to file a petition to have the order vacated.
You would need to file a petition to have the order vacated.

As an 18 year old living PA can my parents legally take away my drivers license?

Answered 14 years and 2 months ago by Ellen S. Kingsley (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Family
Legally?  Probably not.  Is anyone going to do anything about it?  Probably not.  You're 18 and can get a replacement if it was lost or stolen.
Legally?  Probably not.  Is anyone going to do anything about it?  Probably not.  You're 18 and can get a replacement if it was... Read More

how do i start the process of being emancipated

Answered 14 years and 2 months ago by Ellen S. Kingsley (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Family
You would need to submit a Petition for Emancipation to your local county court, but I would suggest, given your circumstances, that you contact your local police or Children & Youth.  At 15, I would be surprised if the court would emancipate you, unless you could show that you are capable of supporting yourself, as well as other factors.  If you really want to pursue emancipation, you should seek the help of an attorney.... Read More
You would need to submit a Petition for Emancipation to your local county court, but I would suggest, given your circumstances, that you contact your... Read More

which court has jurisdiction, PENNSYLVANIA OR FLORIDA? how is he able to claim after 8 years the support is unfair?

Answered 14 years and 2 months ago by Ellen S. Kingsley (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Family
It's difficult to know exactly what's going on from your explanation, but if Florida released jurisdiction and PA now manages the support, jurisdiction is likely in PA.  He may be filing in Florida because Florida is probably handling the "enforcement" portion of the support.  You should really speak to your DR caseworker to get a better understanding, and then to an attorney here and maybe in FL as well.... Read More
It's difficult to know exactly what's going on from your explanation, but if Florida released jurisdiction and PA now manages the support,... Read More

Can I or my mother take legal custody/conservatorship over my mentally ill brother. He has become drug addicted, not working, and using drugs?

Answered 14 years and 3 months ago by Ellen S. Kingsley (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Family
You can ask the court to appoint you as guardian IF you can find a doctor who will say that your brother is unable to make decisions for himself.  You should consult with an attorney who practices elder law, as it is usually elders who need guardians.
You can ask the court to appoint you as guardian IF you can find a doctor who will say that your brother is unable to make decisions for himself.... Read More

Is a under age woman legally emancipated after having a child?

Answered 14 years and 3 months ago by Ellen S. Kingsley (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Family
No.
No.

rights of a father that never married his daughters mother and no lawyers have ever been involved.

Answered 14 years and 3 months ago by Ellen S. Kingsley (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Family
Your son can file for custodial time with his daughter, even without an attorney.  He should contact the custody office of the county in which his daughter resides.  Usually, custodial time is not impacted by payment or non-payment of support.
Your son can file for custodial time with his daughter, even without an attorney.  He should contact the custody office of the county in which... Read More

About POA

Answered 14 years and 3 months ago by Ellen S. Kingsley (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Family
I'm unclear as to your meaning, but I think that you are suggesting that there is an agent who was appointed who is choosing not to make the decisions necessary for the person who appointed him/her as their power of attorney.  If so, you probably can't force them to act, but if the person who appointed him or her is incapacitated, you could file to have a guardian appointed, which could remove the agent and put someone in place who will act.  I suggest you consult with an attorney who practices in elder law.... Read More
I'm unclear as to your meaning, but I think that you are suggesting that there is an agent who was appointed who is choosing not to make the... Read More

my girlfriend is in a coma i have gaudianship of her 12 year old daughter is there anyway i can get legal right to find out about my girlfriends healt

Answered 14 years and 3 months ago by Ellen S. Kingsley (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Family
There is likely no easy way to get that information.  Given your status as the girl's caregiver, you could start a custody action to get custody of her.  You would need to notify whoever is your girlfriend's decision maker (usually a Power of Attorney).  I'm certain the state of your girlfriend's health would be a topic the court would want to know about in making their decision.  You should really consult with a family law attorney to discuss the details of your complex case.... Read More
There is likely no easy way to get that information.  Given your status as the girl's caregiver, you could start a custody action to get custody... Read More

How can I get my step-dad to tell me where he took my three cats?

Answered 14 years and 3 months ago by Ellen S. Kingsley (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Family
You may not be able to, given the delay in time, but you may want to consider a private criminal complaint for theft or a civil suit (called replevin) against him for the return of them.  You should speak with an attorney who practices animal law for more information.
You may not be able to, given the delay in time, but you may want to consider a private criminal complaint for theft or a civil suit (called... Read More

How do i fight domestic relations for arrears?

Answered 14 years and 3 months ago by Ellen S. Kingsley (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Family
Youn probably can't, other than to come up with some or all of the money.  You should have disputed the amount at the time of your initial order.  You should also file to have the amount reduced.  This may or may not be successful depending on your circumstances.  If you speak with an attorney, the can give you a better idea as to what you should be paying.... Read More
Youn probably can't, other than to come up with some or all of the money.  You should have disputed the amount at the time of your initial... Read More

my girlfriend is in a coma and since im just a boyfriend they won''t let me see her or know anything is there anything i can do ?

Answered 14 years and 4 months ago by David Byron Bice (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Family
You need to consult with an attorney well versed in family law and the laws governing guardianship. I do not practice in Pa., but most states allow persons with a "substantial connection" to petition for guardianship.
You need to consult with an attorney well versed in family law and the laws governing guardianship. I do not practice in Pa., but most states allow... Read More

My child''s father and I were never married but I put his last name as my child''s. Can I change his last name to mine?

Answered 14 years and 5 months ago by Ellen S. Kingsley (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Family
You can, if a) he agrees or b) you get a court order to do it.  You should contact a lawyer in your area to help you with the process.
You can, if a) he agrees or b) you get a court order to do it.  You should contact a lawyer in your area to help you with the process.

Pregnant with exs baby, he says i''m lying. Also he''s sent me emails stating he has videos of me when i lived with him. How do i stop these emails?

Answered 14 years and 5 months ago by Ellen S. Kingsley (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Family
I suggest you contact your local police regarding these allegations.
I suggest you contact your local police regarding these allegations.
Family Law
Pennsylvania

Helpful Resources