A prenuptial agreement is a legal contract that couples sign before marriage. It outlines how they will handle property, debt, and financial matters if they divorce. In Michigan, the law recognizes prenuptial agreements as long as both spouses sign...
Michigan is an equitable distribution state, meaning the court divides marital property fairly, though not necessarily equally. The court considers numerous factors to reach a decision that reflects fairness and equity for both parties. Unlike...
Adoption has become a catch-all phrase for numerous legal situations in which a non-biological individual assumes parental rights and responsibilities for a child. While adoption remains a life-long commitment to a child, it can involve a sometimes-complicated legal framework of paperwork, documents, and court dates. This legal labyrinth can be more confusing when involving terms like stepparent and second-parent adoption.…
Second-parent adoptions allow a second parent to adopt their partner’s child without the first parent losing any parental rights. This type of adoption is common among LGBTQ+ families, as it allows both partners to have legal rights to their children. It can provide security and stability for the child by guaranteeing that both parents have the legal authority to make…
Second-parent adoption is a legal process that allows a non-biological parent to adopt their partner’s biological or adoptive child. This process does not affect the first parent’s legal status but adds a second legally recognized parent. This kind of adoption can be extremely beneficial for LGBTQ+ couples, as it guarantees that both parents have equal rights and responsibilities, regardless of…
When it comes to getting divorced in Michigan, you don’t always have the option of filing first. But if you have the option of filing first, is there any advantage to doing so? Benefits of Filing First There are some reasons why filing for divorce first can benefit you. The primary advantage you gain is that you can set the…
If you are awarded custody through a divorce or custody proceeding, you likely rely on child support from your ex to ensure your kids have the necessities to grow and thrive. As such, it can be financially devastating when your ex stops paying child support in defiance of a court order. What can you do in this situation? Steps to…
A legal guardian can help minors and incapacitated adults meet their needs and make their lives easier. However, there are times when it’s necessary to end or change a guardianship. These situations include cases where the ward (the person for whom the guardian cares) regains their mental and/or physical capacity or when the guardian neglects their duties or takes advantage…
If you are ready to divorce, you may wonder how long the process will take. Although you undoubtedly want a quick and favorable resolution, every divorce is different, and the length of your case depends on numerous factors. Attorney Lisa D. Stern will handle all aspects of your divorce case and seek a swift and favorable end to your marriage…