Pennsylvania Family Law Blog – The Law Offices of Sheryl R. Rentz

Don’t Be Fooled by Cuffing – Divorce Lasts Longer Than Marriage

By Sheryl Rentz on January 8, 2018

two adults hugging

During the summer, people generally want to be single and free; but once it gets cold, singles feel the need to settle down and find someone to be with for the winter months. “Cuffing season” refers to this time of year when people desire relationships. Although it sounds like a joke, it’s actually scientifically proven that humans want to mate during the colder months. Since it gets darker quicker, this activates your melatonin, which makes you sleepier and lazier. Ultimately, you would rather be inside having intimate interaction instead of going out and being around a lot of people. Read the rest »

Is Parallel Parenting Right for You?

By Sheryl Rentz on December 1, 2017

woman giving kisses to her child

Ending a relationship is always a tough thing to get through, but it can be harder when you have children with that person. While other couples get the luxury of never speaking to each other again, that can’t be the case when a child is involved.

Although co-parenting is an ideal situation, it doesn’t work for everyone. If there is a lot of conflict between the two parents, parallel parenting might be the best option. (If domestic abuse is the reason, the court would have to determine whether it’s safe for the child to be around that parent before any parenting plan can be put in place.) Read the rest »

Posted in: Child Custody

When Is Custody Not Given to Either Parent?

By Sheryl Rentz on October 24, 2017

little girl riding a pink rocking horse

Child custody battles are hard to get through, especially when parents cannot get along. But parents must put their feelings to the side and do what’s in the best interest of the child. They might as well.

Pennsylvania’s family court judges will stick to this rule whenever they are faced with a custody decision. They do not show favoritism, or automatically side with the mother as most people believe. However, there are times when the “best interest of the child” is to NOT give custody to either parent, but to a legal guardian or a responsible family member. Read the rest »

Posted in: Child Custody

Does Getting Married Young Put You at Risk for Divorce?

By Sheryl Rentz on October 12, 2017

couple smiling and embracing

Everyone remembers their high school sweethearts. Knee-deep in teenage love, you thought you’d be together forever. Now that you’re much older, can you imagine marrying your high school sweetheart at the ripe old age of 18?

Most likely the answer is no. Which makes perfect sense. Read the rest »

Posted in: Divorce

Domestic and International Adoptions: What’s the Difference?

By Sheryl Rentz on September 22, 2017

welcome to our home sign

When it comes to starting a family, many Americans turn to adoption. While it can be a truly rewarding process, there are certain decisions that must be made while navigating this journey.

There are two types of adoption: domestic and international. Domestic might seem like the “common” form of adoption amongst average Americans, but international adoption is on the rise. It’s not just for celebrities! Read the rest »

Posted in: Adoption

Making Blended Families Work with a Prenup

By Sheryl Rentz on September 11, 2017

a couple sitting on a park bench

Prenuptial agreements are more than just plot points in your favorite dramas or lyrics in your favorite Kanye West song. They may have a “bad” reputation in the media, but in real life, they could be your answer to finding stability. Read the rest »

Are Cohabitation Agreements the New Prenup?

By Sheryl Rentz on August 24, 2017

interior of bedroom with canopy bed

Many of us can recall a time where we happily moved in with a significant other, thinking it would last forever.

However, when the relationship took a turn for the worse, you were stuck in a very sticky situation. Who moves out? Both paid for the furniture, so who gets it?

As more couples decide to live together before getting married, they are opting to sign cohabitation agreements to avoid the headache of a messy breakup. Read the rest »

The Effect of Divorce on Kids

By Sheryl Rentz on July 31, 2017

black and white photo of little boy

According to ABC6 Action News, more than one million children in the United States are affected by divorce or separation every year. As divorce becomes an increasingly common issue, more research is being done on how to effectively transition children through this conflict.

Many parents worry about how to support their children, while helping them understand what is going to happen. Read below for proven strategies on how to help children cope with divorce. Read the rest »

Posted in: Divorce

Can Adoption Be Only a Swipe Away?

By Sheryl Rentz on July 25, 2017

little girl on pink rocking horse

These days you can get almost anything on your phone. With just a tap on a screen, you can get food, buy a refrigerator, or send whatever your heart desires right to your doorstep. With each day, more items get added to the list.

Recently, a company named Adoptly tried applying this concept to adoption. The app functions like Tinder, a popular dating app. The app’s goal is to find the perfect child for those who are interesting in adopting. You can swipe right if you like the child or you can swipe left if you don’t. Read the rest »

Posted in: Adoption

What Is a Co-Ownership Agreement and Why Is It Important?

By Sheryl Rentz on July 20, 2017

piggy bank with bandages & crutches

Even though married couples have certain guaranteed protections under the law (such as rights to all jointly-held property upon the death of a spouse), many long-term couples elect not to marry. This means that if the relationship ends for any reason, they may not be fully protected when it comes to determining ownership of jointly-held property. Read the rest »

We know your problems are unique & special.
Call us, we will listen.
(610) 645-0100