The NBA player cites the fact that his wife already has a large sum of money and is a millionaire as a result of their divorce. He also contends that if he were to give her more, the kids would be spoiled with a lifestyle filled with luxuries. She contends that he still makes $1 million more than she does and some of that should go towards their children.
]]> Some people may wrongfully assume Nash's case and reasoning may peg him as a so-called deadbeat dad who simply does not want to care for his children. However, he reportedly pays for a number of hefty expenses for his children already. Nash claims he pays 90 percent of medical bills and 82 percent of a nanny's salary.While both parties may seem to have enough financially to ensure their children have everything they may need, the right to pursue a modification or exemption from paying child support in this case may be more about principle rather than financial difficulties. Most cases for child support modification pertain to a financial hardship related to a financial hardship. Regardless of the underlying reasons a Pennsylvania parent may have for wanting to revisit or modify a child support order, doing so through the court system and with transparency of reasoning may work best for everyone involved.
Source: upi.com, "Steve Nash child support: The NBA star contests support payments," April 30, 2013
]]>The 30-year-old man was pulled over by police because he was suspected of driving a car with an expired inspection sticker. At some point during his encounter with police, the man jumped into the Lehigh River while his passenger distracted officers. He was adrift and heading towards a dam. The man reportedly stayed in the middle of the river as police converged on both shores.
]]> Police tried to convince the man to get out because of an impending waterfall. They had a water rescue crew on hand and kept communication with the man to try and lure him out of the water before he needed to be rescued. He finally swam to waiting authorities and was arrested for numerous charges.The man eventually told authorities he fled because of an outstanding warrant for failure to pay child support. While this form of avoidance of child support is unusual, it highlights the desperation a person behind in support may feel if they ever encounter law enforcement while they are behind in payments. A Pennsylvania family court official may be able to help parents seek modifications or adjustments in the amount they owe if they are suffering a financial hardship that makes it difficult to keep up with established child support payments.
Source: articles.mcall.com, "Wanted for child support, man jumps in river at Easton, police say," Frank Warner, April 27, 2013
]]>A recent complaint filed against Mark Sanford by his ex-wife, Jenny Sanford, highlights how intricate divorce agreements can be. According to reports, there is a provision in their divorce agreement that the one should not be in the other's home without permission. Jenny Sanford recently filed a trespassing complaint when she allegedly found the ex-governor in her home without her consent. She has also stated that this has been an ongoing problem.
]]> Mark Sanford, the somewhat infamous former governor of South Carolina, says he was at the home watching the Super Bowl with the couple's son. He also contends that he tried to reach his ex-wife to let her know of his plans to watch the game at her house with the son. He has expressed publicly that he also believes this current complaint may have come at a time to cause issues with his current bid to seek public office again.While most cases involving divorce agreement violations do not make the news, ex-spouses may want to follow how this case plays out in the media. Pennsylvania couples who have issues with a divorce agreement already in place may be able to seek modifications if the need arises. Couples may also want to find ways to communicate effectively so unnecessary complaints do not occur over misunderstandings.
Source: The Washington Post, "Sanford: Ex-wife's trespassing complaint an 'unfortunate reality' of divorce," Aaron Blake, April 17, 2013
]]>The parents lost custody and the boys, ages 2 and 4, were placed with the grandparents. The father came to the home where the boys lived, tied up the grandmother and took the children from her home. He and his wife, the children's mother, took the children and fled to Cuba together. Authorities from both the United States and Cuba worked together to safely return the entire family back to the U.S.
]]> The parents face a number of charges and are currently in jail. The children were taken from the parents a year ago amid a bizarre incident and were given to the grandparents. The children were said to be doing well after the incident and the grandparents have asked for privacy for the entire family.It can be very convoluted when parents lose child custody to another family member. However, Pennsylvania family court officials work diligently to place children according to their best interests. When parents lose child custody and grandparents or family members gain custody, being able to work together and abide by court orders can benefit all parties involved. Whenever one party does not want to abide by those orders or wishes to have child custody revisited, working through the courts rather than taking action on their own may help families avoid further conflict and any criminal charges or law enforcement involvement.
Source: absnews.go.com, "Parents in Cuba Kidnap Case Isolated From Jail Population," Alyssa Newcomb, April 9, 2013
]]>The Powerball winner claimed a prize that would net him $152 million dollars in one lump sum after taxes. Shortly after being disclosed publicly as the winner of the jackpot, it also became public that he was behind in child support payments to the tune of $29,000. The man reportedly has five children from the ages of 5 to 23 years old.
]]> Once authorities made his debt public, they also issued a warrant for his arrest which was actually stayed, giving the man a chance to go to court on his own and pay the past debt. His debt was dated back to 2009. It is unclear for which child or children he owed support for. However, the man has since vowed to help his family and others with the money he has won.While winning the lottery is not a typical way for someone to make good on past debts such as overdue child support payments, in this case the winner was able to take care of the balance and avoid the legal repercussions of not paying. Pennsylvania parents who owe back child support may want to be clear as to what legal repercussions there are if they fall behind in payments. Some may be able to seek a modification in support to avoid penalties. Those who are waiting on past due payments of child support may also want to investigate what legal measures can be taken to expedite back due payments.
Source: abcnews.go.com, "Powerball Winner Pedro Quezada Settles $29,000 Child Support Debt," Alyssa Newcomb, April 1, 2013
]]>Public records indicate Stewart filed for divorce on March 22. It is also noted that he is apparently not offering spousal support. His wife, Porsha Stewart, says she was 'blindsided' by the filing. She has retained counsel to navigate the upcoming proceedings. Her legal counsel notes that both sides will come together for what is called a status conference to work out details before heading to court.
]]> While Kordell was widely known for his football career with the Pittsburgh Steelers, the couple has lived in Atlanta and appeared on the reality show "Real Housewives of Atlanta." It is reported that the season finale of the show shows the couple attending counseling to work on their marriage. It is unclear how much the Stewarts are worth or if there was a prenuptial agreement, although news reports indicate that Stewart alluded to one.How the news of a divorce is broken to one party involved can play a role in the tone of the entire proceeding. While those who are not in the public eye don't typically read about their divorce in the media, having one party file unexpectedly can create conflict and resentment. Having face to face negotiations is one way for Pennsylvania couples to outline the main points to be addressed during a divorce, and it can also be a way to present what the parties feel is relevant so as to provide a framework for achieving a fair and comprehensive settlement.
Source: Mstarz.com, "Kordell Stewart and Porsha Stewart Divorce Update: 'RHOA' Star Hires Lawyer from Michael Jordan Baby Mama Drama Case, Will Porsha Receive Spousal Support?" Dominique Zonyee, March 28, 2013
]]>A 23-year-old man apparently posted a photo of himself on Facebook. It showed him smiling amongst a display of what appear to be a number of $20 bills. The man posing with the spread of cash around him is reportedly behind in child supports for a 3-year-old child.
]]> Authorities got wind of the photograph. They were able to obtain a search warrant based on the social media photo. Authorities reportedly do not know if the money in the picture belongs to the man who owes child support. Nevertheless, he is currently charged with three felony counts related to the back-due child support payments.This case highlights the far reaching affects of social media and how a simple post or a picture can lead to criminal charges. There are a wide range of enforcement techniques to force recalcitrant noncustodial parents to pay back due child support, including the garnishment of wages or confiscating assets. Any Pennsylvania parents who are behind in child support or who may soon find themselves behind in payments may benefit by formally applying for a modification rather than put themselves in a position where they may face criminal charges or other enforcement measures for failure to pay. For custodial parents who are trying to get overdue child support payments, social media sites such as Facebook may provide important and valuable evidence to assist them in their efforts to receive what they are owed.
Source: abclocal.com, "Facebook picture leads to child support case," March 22, 2013
]]>According to the news report, a man was in court for failure to pay child support for the last two years. The man reportedly owes more than $13,000 in back child support. His punishment handed down by the judge entails the man having to wear a sign around his neck that says 'I haven't paid child support and I'm in contempt of court.' He has been sentenced to wearing the sign three days a week for three hours each time until the back child support has been paid.
]]> While creative in one sense, the man's family is not happy about the punishment. They claim the man has cancer and should not be made to stand outside with the sign for long periods of time. Others are also looking into the punishment. Reportedly, the NAACP may become involved in this man's case.While judges do have some freedom to alter punishments or rulings to fit a particular case, there are confines within the law that can't be overlooked. If further investigation of this case reveals the punishment is a detriment to the man's health or his rights, there may have to be an alternative punishment for failure to pay child support. Pennsylvania families involved in child support proceedings know how difficult the issues can be on both sides. While it remains to be seen if the judge's decision will stand, it does underscore the point that courts take child support obligations seriously.
Source: wjtv.com, "Man Ordered to Wear Child Support Sign," Beth Alexander, March 15, 2013
]]>According to news reports, the actress is seeking spousal support from her husband of six years. The request reportedly struck some as a surprise given the fact that the 50-year-old actress was listed as one of the top-earning actresses in the 1990s. However, 35-year-old Kutcher is reportedly the highest-paid television actor at the current moment. The court filing for support did not list the specific amount being sought.
]]> The couple first announced their split in 2011. Reports indicate that, in their separate divorce filings, they both indicated irreconcilable differences as the reason for their divorce. Kutcher has been cited as stating that he wouldn't refuse to pay his estranged wife any requested alimony, even though he had no plans to request such support himself.While most couples in their position may be perceived as having the adequate means to support themselves, this case highlights the fact that a spouse may still be able to seek spousal support during a divorce. Even though Moore may have the capacity to earn money in her acting career, she may still be awarded a certain amount of support from the television star, who seems to currently be earning more than she does. Pennsylvania couples, especially those with a significant amount of assets, may want to consider the likelihood that they could be required to pay some form of spousal support after a divorce, and plan accordingly.
Source: dailynews.com, "Demi Moore asks Ashton Kutcher for alimony," Eric Kelsey, March 8, 2013
]]>According to the news story, a man signed a birth certificate and agreed to be known as the father of a child. He found out the child was not his but was still bound to pay $200 a month in support. He was also behind in payments to the total of $23,000.
]]>Once in court, the judge seemingly agreed that it was unfair that the man was legally bound to make payments for a child that proved not to be his biologically, yet he was still legally bound to do so. The judge gave a ruling that the man still had to pay support but set the amount at $1 per month without interest. At that rate, it would take the man over 1,900 years to pay the debt owed; however, he is still legally making payments.
The creative settlement allowed for some judicial common sense to correct a mistake that has been made. If a Pennsylvania man is unsure of whether a child is actually his biological child, he should find out for sure what his legal obligation will be if he signs the birth certificate. Agreeing to pay child support and be legally known as the child's parent is a very serious responsibility and should not be entered into lightly.
Source: kltv.com, "Judge orders $1 a month in child support for the next 1000+ year," Yvette Yeon, Feb. 28, 2013
]]>According to reports, authorities are seeking a 52-year-old man who has taken the top spot on the federal list, which ranks parents who are considered the country's worst offenders when it comes to missing child support payments. The father in this particular case owes back support totaling close to $260,000. The back child support dates back to 1998.
]]> The news report indicates the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services keeps the list, and this father is currently the top-ranked offender. The list publicizes pictures and information about the parent who is behind in payments. Parents who are put on the list are behind in payments amounting to more than $5,000, or they have fled the area to evade payments. In this case, federal officials believe that the man is currently in another country.While the amount this father owes in back child support is extreme, the consequences can be quite serious for parents who fall behind in any amount. Pennsylvania parents who are trying to get support for a child should know how these list are compiled and what they can do to help a parent get the support they are owed. For a parent who has fallen behind in child support, seeking a modification or working with the other parent and court system for a resolution is advisable over evading authorities or stopping payments altogether.
Source: Thenewstribune.com, "Tacoma man owes nearly $260,000 in child support," Feb. 23, 2013
]]>According to news reports, actress Diane Lane chose the holiday devoted to love to decide to move on and take official steps to end her marriage. Lane has been married to actor Josh Brolin for over eight years. This is the second marriage for both of them.
]]> Reportedly, the couple listed the day before Valentine's Day as when they officially separated. The divorce filing cites irreconcilable differences as the official cause of the split. They do not have any children together, and there is no official mention of a prenuptial agreement between the two actors.This recent case highlights the fact that when one party or both decide there is no reason to continue with the marriage, it simply doesn't matter what time of year it is and sentimentality may not factor into when a filing takes place. Pennsylvania couples may find Christmas, birthdays, anniversaries or any other occasion is the time when one party decides to file for divorce. Many cite these holidays as a wakeup call of sorts, and they may decide now is the time to start a new life. Being prepared for this new stage of life is probably the best first step for couples thinking about divorce.
Source: The Seattle Times, "Diane Lane signed divorce doc on Valentine's Day," Feb. 22, 2013
]]>The former state representative pleaded guilty in January for the domestic incident against his wife. According to reports, the wife grabbed her husband's cell phone because she believed he was e-mailing another woman. That action is what reportedly prompted the man to become physical with her. He has also pleaded guilty to driving drunk shortly after the altercation with his wife and is serving jail time for that offense.
]]> The woman in this incident filed for divorce from her husband back in June. The request for the protective order was filed a couple of months later. The divorce matter between the two is still ongoing, but the judge in the case has indicated that the children the couple share from their 10-year marriage remains his priority.For much of the divorce process, the former Pennsylvania politician has been denied any contact with his wife or children. The judge has recently indicated that he wants to make all of the child custody matters work out as smoothly as possible under the circumstances. The best interests of the children are typically the primary concern in such matters. Other Pennsylvania couples who find themselves dealing with similar situations may wish to make sure they fully understand their rights and responsibilities when it comes to child custody negotiations, especially if domestic abuse has been alleged.
Source: Allentown Morning Call, "Joe Brennan reaches agreement with wife who requested protection from abuse," Patrick Lester, Feb. 12, 2013
]]>Since the law's inception in 2003, at least 21 newborns have been saved. When a newborn is left at a hospital, it is placed in foster care. Once in foster care, the baby may become eligible for adoption. This is yet another avenue of potential success for families seeking to grow by adoption.
]]> Nevertheless, it has been observed that a perceived stigma has perhaps precluded some parents from making use of the law after their child is born. In situations where a baby cannot be cared for or is not wanted, the potential alternatives may place a baby at risk of injury, abuse or worse. In short, the intent of the law is to save babies.It is not just the law that wants the best for newborns. Most parents who bring children into the world want the same thing, though some recognize that their life circumstances may get in the way. The Pennsylvania law offers an option that is intended to be in the best interests of a baby and also legally protect parents who want to do the right thing. Those responsible decisions may clear the way for an adoption designed to provide a loving and supportive home. Anyone facing these important and life changing issues, either through relinquishment or a hoped for adoption, may benefit by seeking advice and assistance to navigate our laws and procedures to achieve the best possible results.
Source: The York Daily Record, "Our take: Parents must know they can leave unwanted infants safely at hospitals," Feb. 12, 2013
]]>The couple never married but tried to conceive a child together. When that was unsuccessful, they turned to the in-vitro process and used sperm donated from an anonymous source. A baby boy was born, and the couple lived together as a family for more than two years. The father presented evidence to the court in the form of a letter signed by the girlfriend, presenting him as the child's guardian.
]]> Even though the child is not biologically his, the New Jersey couple raised the child as their own. His battle appears to ever so slowly be inching towards success because a judge ruled the man would be required to submit to home visits before custody could be given to him. The father has told the court his losses have been almost unbearable, speaking of both the loss of his girlfriend and son.Pennsylvania parents currently fighting a child custody battle understand how difficult the process can be. Many choose to seek legal assistance in their cases, something that can give them leverage within the courts. Knowing one's legal rights and having a knowledgeable party on one's side can ensure parents are given the rights they are entitled to under state law.
Source: New York Post, "Exec in child-custody fight after girlfriend's suicide - because anonymous sperm donor is the 'biological father'," Julia Marsh, Jan. 18, 2013
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