Family, Divorce & Domestic Matters
Browse published legal information questions related to Family, Divorce & Domestic Matters.
How do I find out whether my deceased father had money turned over under unclaimed property laws?
If your father has died, you can usually check whether he left behind unclaimed property by searching the state’s unclaimed property records and then following the claim process for heirs or personal representatives. In...
What happens if one spouse wastes marital assets on gambling before separation?
In Wisconsin, gambling losses or other spending that reduces marital assets before separation may matter in a divorce, but the legal effect depends on the facts. Courts generally look at whether the spending was ordinary...
Can You Sue and Win Over a Parent’s Last-Minute Will Change?
A last-minute change to a parent’s will can sometimes be challenged in Oregon, but only if there is a recognized legal reason to do so. In general, a court does not overturn a will just because family members think the c...
Husband Owns the Car and Controls Finances—What Rights Do I Have During Separation?
In Oregon, your rights during a separation usually depend on the overall financial picture, not just whose name is on the car title or who manages the bank accounts. If you are married and living separately, the law gene...
What happens if my spouse bought a car during the marriage but titled it only in their name?
In Louisiana, a car bought during a marriage may still be treated as part of the marital property picture even if the title lists only one spouse’s name. Title alone does not always control ownership questions, especiall...
Can a prenup keep my retirement account separate if contributions continue during marriage?
In New Jersey, a prenuptial agreement may be able to help keep a retirement account separate, but that does not automatically mean every dollar added during the marriage will stay separate. The answer usually depends on...
Is it legal for the state to suspend my driver’s license over child support arrears?
In general, yes. In Arkansas, a driver’s license may be suspended when a person falls behind on child support, depending on the amount owed, the enforcement process used, and any available exceptions or ways to get back...
My Ex Won’t Remove My Name From a Joint Phone Plan — What Can I Do?
If your name is still on a joint phone plan after a breakup, the main issue is usually that the account holder and the phone carrier still see you as financially responsible for the account. In general, a joint plan can...
How do I respond to an eviction notice when I am protected by a temporary restraining order against the other tenant?
If you are in Vermont and you receive an eviction notice while you are protected by a temporary restraining order (TRO) against another tenant, the first step is to look carefully at who is named in the notice, who is be...
How do I enforce a divorce decree when my ex refuses to transfer the car title?
In Nebraska, if a divorce decree says one spouse must transfer a car title and that person refuses, the issue is usually one of enforcing a court order. In general, a divorce decree is not just a private agreement; it is...
What happens if a hidden camera video of me was uploaded online?
If a hidden camera video of you was uploaded online, it can raise serious privacy, safety, and reputation concerns. In general, the fact that the video was posted publicly does not make the recording legal. Depending on...
What happens if someone edits a recorded conversation to make me look bad?
In California, an edited recording can create legal problems, but what happens depends heavily on the facts. A recording that has been cut, rearranged, or selectively presented may be challenged if the editing makes it m...
Can a minor get protection from harassment by another student in Washington?
Yes, a minor in Washington may be able to seek legal protection from harassment by another student, depending on the facts and the type of conduct involved. In general, Washington law can provide protection orders or oth...
What happens if someone violates a restraining order issued by an Alabama court?
If someone violates a restraining order issued by an Alabama court, the person who sought the order may be able to ask the court to enforce it. In general, a violation can lead to serious court consequences, and the resp...
Do I have to divide a lawsuit settlement that was received during the marriage?
In Montana, a lawsuit settlement received during a marriage may be treated as marital property, separate property, or a mix of both, depending on the facts. The key issue is usually not just when the money was received,...