eHow Logo

Discover the expert in you.

  • home
  • style
  • food
  • money
  • health
  • mom
  • tech
  • More eHow
Featured:
Allergies
Grilling Guide
eHow Now Blog
  1. eHow
  2. Legal
  3. Divorce & Separation
  4. Divorce Rights

Divorce Rights

RSS
  • Rights of Divorced Spouses for SSI Payments

    If you and your spouse divorce, the court typically divides your property during the proceedings. Sometimes, you can also collect Social Security or retirement benefits based on your ex-spouse's records. However, you can't typically take any portion of your ex-spouse's Supplemental Security Income benefits, nor can you collect your own SSI based on his application.

  • A Divorced Spouse's Disability Pension Rights

    If you've spent any amount of time researching your state's divorce laws on the Internet, you've probably figured out that you're generally entitled to at least half of any pension benefits your spouse earned during your marriage. This general rule, however, applies to retirement pensions. Whether you have any rights to your spouse's disability pension depends largely on where you live.

  • Divorce in Alabama & Spousal Right to Half of 401(k)

    State laws govern the divorce process, and most states follow the equitable distribution doctrine of divorce property division. Before an Alabama Circuit Court will grant your final divorce decree, you must enter into a written settlement agreement with your former spouse dividing your property and debts or request a division by the Circuit Court. Marital property includes any 401k assets, which are subject to equal division.

  • Divorce Rights and Benefits for Spouses

    Understanding your rights during a divorce can help you protect everything you worked for during the marriage. Each state has its own regulations on how to assign custody, child support, spousal support and the assets accrued during a marriage, but many of the rules have similar guidelines. To be sure you really understand the benefits divorce entitles you, review your state's laws or talk to a local divorce attorney.

  • What Are a Man's Rights When Getting Divorced?

    When a man goes through a divorce, he should understand how his own state's laws affect his rights. State law determines the procedures required for him to get a divorce. In addition, his state's laws guide the family law court in its orders regarding a man's rights to marital property, alimony, child custody and other legal issues. A man can benefit from consulting with a divorce lawyer who has expertise in the laws of his state.

  • Can Your Husband Have Rights to Your Inheritance During a Divorce?

    There are two types of jurisdictions when it comes to divorce: community property jurisdictions and equitable distribution jurisdictions. In community property jurisdictions, divorce courts divide property into two categories: separate property and community property. Separate property is specific types of property owned by an individual before marriage and other types of property including inheritances. Even in equitable distribution jurisdictions, most courts consider inheritance --- whether received before or during marriage --- as the separate property of the spouse who received it.

  • Divorce & Grandparents' Rights in New York

    The breakup of a marriage can have far-reaching effects, touching even members of the extended families. Ideally, grandparents of children whose parents divorced should be able to maintain the same relationships with their grandchildren as before, but occasionally geography or animosity may interfere with those relationships.

  • How to File for Marital Separation in South Carolina

    South Carolina law does not make many provisions for an action for "legal separation." You and your spouse, however, may separate prior to or in contemplation of a divorce. South Carolina case law encourages parties to reach a separation agreement outside the court system. Even an unambiguous agreement is still subject to review by a family court judge to ensure fairness and that it was entered into voluntarily. Once approved, a separation agreement may become binding, so it is best to consult with an attorney prior to signing anything.

  • Cohabiting Eviction Laws in Tennessee

    Cohabitation refers to couples who live together without entering into a marriage. The State of Tennessee does not have a cohabitation law. Living together as an unmarried couple does not mean either person gives up his or her rights under the law. Therefore, standard state eviction laws apply to a couple who live together, which means a landlord cannot treat them any differently than they would other single or married tenants. The laws may vary from county to county.

  • Abused Women's Rights in Michigan

    Although domestic violence affects many different types of people, women are usually the victims. In the state of Michigan, the Crime Victims Rights Act of 1985 outlines the many different legal rights that women have following a domestic violence crime against them.

  • In New York State, What Are the Rights of a Housewife in a Divorce?

    Historically, New York has had among the most stringent, complicated and expensive divorce procedures in the country. In October 2010, New York's "no-fault divorce" legislation went into effect, so cause is no longer a factor. This law also made provisions for things like interim support for housewives until a final settlement is reached. However, the law is also very complicated, so arguments over its meaning and interpretation are expected to be fierce.

  • Legal Rights of a Woman Living With a Man

    Many couples choose to live together before they become lawfully wed. This trend is particularly popular among young couples, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Cohabitating couples do not have the same legal rights as married couples, so a woman who lives together with a man should be wary of any possible legal troubles that may arise should the relationship turn sour.

  • How to Evict a Cohabiting Partner

    Ending a long-term relationship is not easy and often emotionally difficult, especially when you're living under the same roof. Many state laws grant tenancy rights to domestic partners who have lived in the home for a certain period of time. If an amicable agreement cannot be reached regarding possession and your partner refuses to leave, you will need to proceed with legal action. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the eviction, there are two options available to you: domestic partnership law and landlord-tenant laws.

  • Predetermined Spousal Rights in Illinois

    Illinois is community property state that follows equitable distribution principles when spouses divorce. Predetermined rights for a spouse exist in that the spouses are treated as partners in the marriage, and thus it is presumed that all assets and income generated during the marriage will be divided equally. The presumption of equal rights extends to child support and visitation matters.

  • What Constitutes Marital Separation in South Carolina?

    Chapter 3 Section 20 of the South Carolina Code describes the process through which spouses may choose to separate and the effect of separation upon subsequent divorce proceedings. Unlike some states, South Carolina does not have a specific legal separation statute apart from its divorce statute. However, the South Carolina legislature provides a general description of legal separation and its legal effects upon the marital bond.

  • Statute of Limitations on Alienation of Affection in the United States

    Alienation of affection is an old common law cause of action against someone who commits adultery -- which is generally defined as sexual intercourse with a married individual. The modern trend has been to abolish this cause of action; thus it is only recognized in a handful of states, including Mississippi and North Carolina. A statute of limitation places a time window that any aggrieved spouse may file suit, and in those states that allow such an action, the time period is typically three years.

  • Homestead Rights With Texas Divorce

    The Texas homestead law protects certain properties from being seized and forced into sale by creditors to help satisfy debts of the owners. The law also creates some inadvertent benefits in some divorce situations. The Texas homestead laws, however, don't really apply to divorce proceedings or property distribution at divorce. Rather, they deal with creditors and debts.

  • A Man's Divorce Rights in Texas

    Texas takes the modern view that the no-fault view of marriage as a partnership among equals; there is no preference given based upon gender. This means that a man has the right to divorce, the right to request custody of any children and even request spousal support (also known as alimony), where applicable.

  • The Rights of Grandparents in Gillette, Wyoming

    Grandparents are allowed to seek visitation rights with their grandchildren in Wyoming so long as the court determines that such visitation is in the best interests of the child and that those rights do not substantially impair the rights of the child's natural parents.

  • What Are My Ex-Wife's Rights After Divorce?

    After divorce, the rights and responsibilities of a husband and wife are contained in the final divorce decree. There are no absolute rights for both parties because the particular factors in a divorce situation determine what settlement is most appropriate for both the husband and wife. Generally your ex-wife would have the same rights as you after divorce, including a right to marital property, alimony (depending on your state) and access to the children. Neither you nor you wife can unilaterally change the rights granted in the decree; either a judge must order changes, or you must both agree about…

  • Divorce Rights in Minnesota

    Although no divorce case is cut and dry, each state has its own basic set of divorce guidelines. When you are filing for divorce, it is important to obtain an attorney in your state residency who is an expert on local divorce laws. If you are living in Minnesota and have just filed for divorce, there are a few things that you may want to take into consideration.

  • A Husband's Divorce Rights in Louisiana

    In Louisiana, either husband or wife can file for divorce only if they have lived in the state for at least one year immediately prior. Divorce papers must be signed and filed by the person requesting the divorce in the parish (county) of residence. A man who is involved in a divorce has a number of rights available to husband's in Louisiana.

  • Grandparents Rights in Wyoming

    Grandparents in Wyoming may file a petition requesting visitation under Wyoming law, where the petition is reasonable and does not substantially impair the rights of the child's parents. Wyoming recognizes the primacy of the natural parents in regards to visitation.

  • Rights for Women During Divorce in Washington State

    Though divorce often becomes a highly emotional process, women should take care to understand their rights under Washington state law and make well-informed, practical decisions. Legal issues in divorce usually involve court procedures, property, spousal maintenance and children. Women who need personalized advice regarding specific rights during dissolution of marriage should consult with a Washington state lawyer or seek assistance from courthouse facilitator's offices located at their local Washington courts (see Resources).

  • How to Date After a Legal Separation

    Legal separation is kind of a dating gray area; you're married, but don't live like it. If the legal separation is the first step toward a divorce, waiting for the divorce to be final will be the most uncomplicated option, as you could be asked during divorce proceedings about any romantic relationships. Keep in mind that even though you are living as a single person, in the eyes of the law you remain married.

  • The Rights of Grandparents in Albuquerque

    At the time of the 2000 census, more than 20,000 grandparents in New Mexico were the primary caregivers of their grandchildren, and 4,272 of those lived in Albuquerque. By 2010, that figured jumped to an estimated 27,418 grandparents statewide. The statistics have led New Mexico to be one of the more generous states in the country regarding grandparents' rights.

  • Things Women Should Look Out for in a Divorce

    Divorce can be hard for anyone, but if you're a homemaker spouse, you may have a rougher time than others. Facing a business-savvy opponent with a motivation to lie and cheat, especially if your opponent handled all of your finances during marriage, can quickly overwhelm you and drive you toward an unfair settlement. As your case rolls forward, see a divorce lawyer licensed in your state and be on the lookout for dangers.

  • FAQs on Divorce in Washington

    Washington's divorce process is relatively streamlined, with minimal residency requirements and grounds. If you and your spouse are at odds regarding child custody or property, however, it can become somewhat more complicated.

  • How Do Schools Handle Child Custody Issues?

    Child custody is peaceful when parents agree. While there are many parents willing to compromise for the sake of their children, some parents become selfish and make the child custody process difficult to execute. For such parents, schools have adopted policies and procedures to follow when handling child custody issues.

  • No Cohabitation Rules on a Divorce Decree

    A no cohabitation clause is often included in a divorce contract when a minor child is a consideration, or if alimony is awarded. Unless both parties agree to this clause, the judge will not generally allow for its inclusion. The courts try to refrain from placing restrictions on the parties in a divorce after the settlement.

  • Things a Woman Should Know About Divorce

    Just because divorce has become very common, doesn't make it simple or pleasant. Divorce can be an emotionally exhausting time, which is why it is important to keep calm and well organized through the entire process. There are a few things every woman should know before submitting the petition for divorce from her spouse to make the whole process at least a little bit easier.

  • Divorce Tips for a Woman

    With 50 percent of marriages these days ending in divorce, many individuals need to know how to make this process easier. This is especially true for women who are divorcing. They may be leaving the marriage with fewer assets than the husband, less employment experience, and more childcare responsibilities. It is key for divorcing women to have an understanding of their present financial circumstances, as well as what they will need to do to secure a comfortable future.

  • How to Get Divorced in Vermont

    The legal process of filing for divorce can be expensive, emotionally draining and time consuming. To minimize the disruption to your life, there are a variety of things that you should consider, organize and resolve before filing for divorce. Vermont uses a 50/50 divorce law, meaning that any assets acquired during marriage will be split equally between both spouses in the event of a divorce. Vermont also enforces spousal support and child support.

  • Disability Pension Rights

    Disability, especially when it ends the opportunity to work, can be devastating for an employee and their family. Pensions help ease these burdens. Different nations and organizations approach disability pensions differently, as well as who possesses the right to them.

  • State of South Carolina Divorce Laws

    South Carolina courts must have jurisdiction to make a final ruling on a divorce. Jurisdiction is determined by examining the spouses' residency. A spouse must also provide valid grounds for divorce, which, in some instances, affects property distribution.

  • Special Rules for Family Court in Washington State Law

    In the state of Washington, family law covers all aspects of marriage and divorce, including prenuptial agreements, ending marriages, property division, alimony, parenting, moving children, child support and domestic violence. Special rules address lesser-known factors affecting family law.

  • Can You Evict a Cohabiting Partner for No Cause?

    You cannot evict a cohabiting partner from your shared home for no reason. To evict someone living in the same house, there needs to be a legally valid issue. If abuse is involved, a restraining order will lead to eviction. In cases where you simply want the person to leave for personal reasons, an agreement should be reached where one of you willingly moves out.

  • Divorce & Dads' Rights

    Divorce is a difficult process, and while the law in the United States is never absolute, there are several factors to keep in mind when it comes to the custody of children.

  • Divorce Tips for Women in Vermont

    The realization that your marriage has irretrievably broken down and that obtaining a divorce is the best option can be very painful. However, many women who decide to obtain a divorce do not immediately realize how draining and time-consuming the legal process of obtaining a divorce can be. To minimize the disruption to your life that obtaining a divorce in Vermont can cause, there are a number of issues that a woman should think about and resolve before filing.

  • South Dakota Laws Regarding Divorce

    A South Dakota court can hear a divorce proceeding if the spouse who filed the petition for divorce, the plaintiff, is a state resident. The plaintiff must file a Complaint for Divorce in the circuit court located in the judicial district in which she resides. The case will be assigned to a judge, who will be responsible for addressing property, alimony and custody issues.

  • Laws About Getting a Legal Separation in South Carolina

    Legal separation is an alternative to divorce that allows spouses to end the relationship and divide their lives without terminating their marriage. In South Carolina, a legal separation proceeding is called an "order of separate maintenance and support." A court will divide property, award spousal maintenance (alimony) and decide child custody.

  • The 1984 Retirement Act

    When Ronald Reagan signed the Retirement Equity Plan of 1984, he introduced significant improvements to employees' pension rights. The Act benefited millions of people and at the top of that list were women and young people.

  • How to Split Property for Couples Who Cohabitate

    When married couples divorce, their property is usually divided in half, and spousal support may be ordered by the court. Unmarried cohabitating couples who split up without the legal process of divorce can also have their property divided by the court system and be held responsible for supporting another person with alimony. They can also be subject to litigation from their former partners. Find out what your rights are and the best way to avoid getting caught up in the legal system as you argue over who gets to keep the couch.

  • Georgia Law on Military Ex-Spouse Retirement Pay

    The spouse of a U.S. military service member may be able to obtain a share of his retired military pay as part of their divorce. Whether the spouse can do so depends on Georgia divorce laws and federal laws governing military retirement pay.

  • Divorce & No Appearance Rights in Washington State

    Obtaining a divorce, or dissolution of marriage as it referred to in Washington state, can be a difficult decision. But, if both parties consent and are willing to split possessions and debt without the assistance of the judge, it does not have to be expensive or require a court appearance.

  • Can a Spouse Determine the Funeral Arrangements If They Are Separated From the Deceased?

    A will or other legally notarized document is the best way to express your final wishes for funeral arrangements. When one does not have such a document, questions arise regarding who may have legal say to burial.

  • Homestead Rights in a Divorce

    Homestead rights allow for certain protections against, and may restrict who, can get the homestead property in a will or trust agreement. Divorce of the homestead owner restricts or nullifies your rights in the homestead property. Homestead rights vary by state. Consider seeking the assistance of an attorney to discuss your rights.

  • Grandparents Rights in Ohio After an Adoption

    Grandparents in Ohio who have a relationship with their grandchild may lose that relationship when the child is adopted, however, this is not always the case. In some circumstances, the relationship between grandchild and grandparent will not alter if all parties agree such a relationship is in the best interest of the child.

  • Spousal Theft Laws

    Spousal theft is difficult to prove when community property and separate property become commingled in joint checking and savings accounts, real property transactions and other business and financial investments. State laws on marital property will primarily apply. Oral and written agreements between the husband and wife may be relevant to a limited extent. It will be important to trace back the property to its origins and determine when it became community property. Separate property which never became community property belongs to an individual spouse, who can charge the other spouse with theft, for dishonestly misappropriating those assets.

  • Divorce Rights in Kentucky

    Divorce laws vary from state to state. To protect yourself, it is necessary to know your rights when going through a divorce. Kentucky Statutes, Title XXXV, Chapter 403, deals with the dissolution of marriage, stating the filing requirements, property disposition laws, maintenance laws and other rights.

  • Types of Family Lawyers

    Family lawyers represent clients in matters pertaining to family units, including marriage, prenuptial agreements, divorce, property division, child custody, adoption, establishing paternity, child support and domestic violence. Family lawyers deal with the laws that affect family relationships, and many of these laws vary from state to state.

  • Child Custody & Issues of Leaving the State

    Divorces, joint custody and visitation rights can make it difficult for a parent with custody to leave the state. This can be troublesome if the parent needs to leave the state for a job opportunity or in order to cut costs. However, in many cases, the court system is willing to make accommodations and change the terms of the custody.

  • Illinois Cohabitation Rights During Divorce

    Cohabitation, both with one's own spouse, as well as with a new partner, can raise some issues in an Illinois divorce. Cohabitation can be an important factor in establishing grounds for divorce, and, in certain circumstances, can influence custody and financial decisions as well.

  • Custody and Out of State Vacation Rights in Illinois

    Planning the perfect family vacation requires any undivided attention to detail. From working on a daily schedule full of different attractions to booking the transportation, making a trip a reality takes concentration. Further precautions need to be taken for divorced parents. In Illinois, these parents must provide information to their children's other parent when they want to take the children out of state for vacation. Proper planning can help avoid a messy legal situation later.

  • Family Law Checklist

    General areas of family law include marriage, divorce, child custody and support, and adoption, and similar guidelines cover these laws in the United States and Canada. However, people should always check with their state or province for specific details on family law where they live.

  • What Are a Woman's Rights in a Divorce in North Dakota?

    North Dakota women going through divorce proceedings face a number of challenges and issues. Women who know their rights to property, child custody and support may complete the process quickly. This will allows them to begin to adjust to the changes that come with divorce.

  • Divorce & Full Custody

    If you are contemplating filing for divorce, you may want to know the standards a court applies in awarding full custody. Despite differences from state-to-state in family law statutes including divorce and custody provisions, the basic requirements for full custody are the same no matter where you happen to reside, according to "Nolo's Essential Guide to Divorce" by Emily Doskow.

  • Grandparents' Rights Custody in Arkansas

    Arkansas provides specific rights to grandparents in divorce and separation cases that involve custody. The rights of grandparents are set out in Sections 9-13-101 and 9-13-107 of the Arkansas Code.

  • Grandparents' Rights in Michigan

    Michigan law provides rights to grandparents for custody and visitation as well as survivor rights. In cases regarding visitation and custody, Michigan courts will look at what is in the best interest of the child. The court will also take into consideration the reasons, if applicable, a parent has denied visitation rights to the grandparents.

  • Pension Rights in Divorces in the State of Iowa

    Retirement plans, 401ks and pensions earned during marriage are considered marital property under Iowa state law. At divorce, Iowa courts divide all marital property equitably, portioning off assets based on fairness, contribution and other factors. When a spouse is awarded a portion of the other spouse's pension, the award can be distributed through two methods: immediate offset distribution or deferred distribution.

  • Illinois Divorce Facts Regarding Wives' Rights

    Though divorce is never planned at the time a couple walks down the aisle, there are some instances where it is the best choice to make in a relationship. In the state of Illinois, the courts have made massive alterations to the laws regarding divorce over the past 40 years.

  • Pensions & Texas Divorce

    Retirement benefits are often the most fought over assets during a divorce. A husband may claim that his wife has no rights to his pension because he earned it by himself through his own hard work. In Texas, pensions and retirement accounts are considered marital property to be divided upon divorce. However, no money will be distributed without a Qualified Domestic Relations Order or QDRO.

  • Legal Rights of Grandparents in North Carolina

    When parents divorce, grandparents often lose contact with their grandchildren. In North Carolina, grandparents have the right to request visitation during divorce proceedings but may not disturb the family unit once the divorce has been settled. Grandparents may also seek custody of their grandchildren if they believe the parents are unfit.

  • VA Benefits for Divorced Spouses

    Veterans benefits, commonly referred to as VA benefits, are a form of disability compensation which can be affected when a spouse receiving VA benefits gets divorced. The impact of divorce on VA benefits is codified in 38 U.S.C. § 301 and subsequent sections. The termination and application of a veteran's rights to VA benefits is administered by the VA's regional office.

  • Legal Separation Rules in South Carolina

    In a legal separation, spouses divide their lives and live apart without formally terminating the marriage. This allows spouses to continue to enjoy some of the benefits of marriage, such as tax advantages and health insurance coverage. In South Carolina the proceeding for legal separation is called a request for “separate maintenance and support.”

  • Divorce Rights in Washington

    Because Washington offers "no-fault" divorce and has no residency length requirements, an uncontested divorce can proceed fairly quickly through the system. Still, there are certain aspects of Washington law, particularly with regard to debts and unmarried couples that live together, of which couples should be aware.

  • Divorce Rights in California

    In 1969, California became the first state to implement no-fault divorce laws. These laws eliminated the need for a spouse to prove any wrongdoing on the part of the other spouse. California’s no-fault law protects the rights of the parties involved, and makes divorce less messy and easier on the children concerned. Most no-fault divorces are uncontested, meaning that both spouses agree on important issues: property division, spousal support, child custody and child support. To file for a divorce in California, at least one spouse must have lived in the state for the previous six months or 180 days.

  • Divorce Rights in Arizona

    Approximately 50 percent of all marriages in the United States end in divorce, according to DivorceRate.org (as of June 2010). Divorce can seem like an overwhelming process, but state divorce laws have been created to eliminate the accompanying stress and complications. In Arizona, divorce laws address residency; grounds for divorce; and a spouse's rights to child custody and support, distribution of property and alimony.

  • Grandparents Rights in Illinois

    Grandparents in Illinois often desire the right to see their grandchildren or take care of them, especially in cases where the parents are divorced and the custodial parent wants to cut off ties with her ex's entire family. Illinois does not grant any automatic rights to grandparents, but grandparents can go to family court to try to rectify the situation.

  • Michigan Divorce Rights & Laws

    If you are planning or thinking about seeking a divorce in the state of Michigan, there are some points of law you need to know. Michigan, like all other states, has its own sets of laws which govern the rights of parties involved in a divorce, as well as procedures and requirements necessary in order to be granted a divorce. Failure to know the law may result in an unfavorable ruling or in your divorce petition being dismissed.

  • Divorce in Michigan: Rights & Responsibilities

    The rights and responsibilities of persons seeking a divorce in Michigan are spelled out in the relevant statutes of the Michigan Compiled Laws. These statutes address issues such as the right to petition for a no-fault divorce, the right to file for divorce in Michigan even if the cause for the divorce occurred elsewhere and the right of a spouse to seek property belonging to the other spouse.

  • Child Rights in Divorce Visitations in Tennessee

    Dividing a family through divorce can be an extremely difficult process. Children usually are the primary victims when a marriage dissolves. The subject of visitation is an important one and in Tennessee, the court has specific laws in place to assure that the rights of the child and each parent are all considered.

  • Pension Rights in Divorces

    Most states treat pensions or retirement plans earned during a marriage as marital or community property, meaning it belongs equally to both parties and not just the party who earned it. At divorce, one spouse is typically paid a portion of the other spouse's pension.

  • What Are the Divorce Rights in Florida?

    Anyone seeking a divorce in Florida has certain rights granted by law. These rights are compiled in Title 6, Chapter 61 of the Florida Statutes. The laws deal with topics such as temporary alimony while a divorce action is pending and the status of retirement and pension funds, among others.

  • North Carolina's Grandparents Rights & Adoption

    Grandparents rights in regards to custody or visitation of grandchildren are not in the U.S. Constitution and have only been discussed in the state and federal court systems for approximately 35 years. Most states, North Carolina included, have laws pertaining to the rights of grandparents in cases of adoption, but these rights are contingent on the best interest of the child in question.

  • Army Divorce Spousal Rights in Alaska

    Different states have different divorce laws--being part of a military marriage can complicate matters even more. Alaskan divorce laws pertaining to military couples vary depending on the circumstances; sometimes state laws apply, at other times federal and military laws are applied to part of a divorce proceeding.

  • What Are the Divorce Rights in Illinois?

    Deciding to get a divorce can be very emotional, stressful and overwhelming. Illinois' divorce laws can ease that tension by setting forth each spouse's rights during a divorce. An Illinois court will handle a divorce, also called dissolution, as long as one spouse is a state resident.

  • Divorce Rights in Texas

    Couples who want to file for a divorce in Texas will have to follow a specific set of rules and regulations in order for the divorce to be granted. The residents of the state will need to adhere to all timelines and state-mandated grounds for divorce in order for the proceedings to end as soon as possible.

  • Spousal Rights in a New York State Divorce

    Divorce brings strong emotions and turmoil as spouses separate their lives. Divorce laws can ease that tension by guiding courts in the spouses' rights. Spouses have several rights in divorce, including property rights, the right to spousal maintenance and the right to custody of any children of the marriage. A New York court can hear a divorce if the spouses were married in the state or have resided within the state for at least one year.

  • Divorce Rights in the U.K.

    The process of getting a divorce in the United Kingdom is straightforward and simple. As a spouse in a broken marriage, you have as much right as your partner in matters concerning financial assets, property and children. Law variations in England and Scotland mean that procedures are different and, although you do not need an attorney to file for a divorce, you may still wish to seek legal advice concerning your rights.

  • Spousal Rights in a Divorce

    Spousal support (or spousal rights, alimony or maintenance) is awarded upon divorce to a spouse who will be financially disadvantaged by the divorce. In awarding spousal support, a judge will often look at the marital standard of living. Those with questions about spousal support should seek legal advice.

  • How Are Pensions Divided in Kentucky After a Divorce?

    If a person earns a pension or has a retirement plan through his or her employer, that pension or retirement plan may become property that is at issue during a divorce. In Kentucky, most pension plans are considered marital property and can be divided between the spouses during a divorce proceeding.

  • Marriage & Property Rights

    The laws about property rights in a marriage vary in different states, but the states break down into two basic categories: those that have community property laws and those that do not. These state laws affect how the spouses can use or dispose of property during the marriage and how the property is divided if the spouses divorce or if one of the spouses dies. All states allow spouses to modify the state’s laws about marital property to some extent through agreements between the spouses.

  • Fathers' Divorce Rights in Alabama

    When spouses get divorced in Alabama, four main issues must be addressed by a court: division of property, spousal support, child custody and visitation, and child support. Women used to be the only spouse to receive spousal support. Men in Alabama now have an equal opportunity. Additionally, fathers in Alabama now have equal rights to their children.

  • Divorce Rights of the Mentally Ill in Louisiana

    When a mentally ill spouse is a party to divorce proceedings in the U.S., there are specific factors to be considered, depending on whether she is the plaintiff or the defendant. The law in Louisiana adheres to the same general principles of law followed by the majority of U.S. states. In a very small number of U.S. states, the mental incompetence of a spouse is grounds for divorce; this is not the case in Louisiana.

  • Women's Rights in a Divorce in Michigan

    Divorce legally means ending a marriage. Michigan has an organization called DAWN, Divorce Attorneys for Women. DAWN and other family law attorneys insure a woman's rights are protected with regard to property division, alimony and child custody, especially when a woman was a victim of domestic violence.

  • What Are an Army Wife's Rights in a Divorce?

    If you plan to seek a divorce from a member of the United States Army, you should understand your rights as an Army wife. Military regulations, which are based in federal law, supercede state and local divorce laws and could bring major benefits to you and your family.

  • The Retirement Equity Act

    The Retirement Equity Act of 1984 amended the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). The new legislation gave more benefits to surviving spouses as well as ex-spouses who may not have maintained any other retirement plan other than what was offered through a spouse's employer. The effects of the Retirement Equity Act of 1984 are far reaching.

  • Spouse Rights in Divorce in Alabama

    Approximately half of all marriages end in divorce. In Alabama, either party has the right to file for divorce and request that property be distributed, spousal support, custody of any children born of the marriage and child support for those children.

  • Purpose of a Petition

    The right to petition is a part of the First Amendment in the Bill of Rights. The First Amendment states that the people have the right of religion, free speech, free press, assembly and petition. Petitions have been used since before the inception of the United States, when the 13 colonies were under British rule. They were used to dispute taxes that were unfairly instituted and to petition colonization. Petitions have been a valuable tool that has been used since individuals came together to live in groups. Today petitions have many uses, including government, political, legal, personal and public discussions…

  • Mothers Divorce Rights in New York

    New York law establishes specific rights for mothers in divorce cases in the state. The rights enumerated for mothers facing divorce proceedings cover issues ranging from custody of a child to ensuring that a mother receives appropriate financial support during and following the divorce.

  • What are the Rights of an Unemployed Wife in a Divorce?

    Even if you were unemployed for the duration of the marriage, you still have rights to marital property. Though the divorce laws vary by state, unemployed wives still have rights during a divorce.

  • What Are a Husband's Rights to the House in a Divorce?

    In the event of a divorce, there is a distribution of property of the marriage. Assets are usually distributed according to the laws of the state in which you are filing for divorce. Several factors determine the rights of each spouse in a marital home.

  • What Are My Divorce Rights in New York State?

    New York does not grant no-fault divorces. Rather, any divorce must be on grounds of cruel and inhumane treatment, abandonment, adultery, or imprisonment for more than three consecutive years. In New York, couples can also obtain a divorce if they have been legally and lawfully separated for at least one year. Additionally, each party has a right to contest the divorce and the grounds of the divorce sought by the other party. At divorce, the court will separate the marital property, determine spousal support or alimony, if appropriate, and award custody and child support, if applicable.

  • Divorce & Extended Visitation Rights in Illinois

    Illinois family law includes specific provisions governing the development of visitation schedules in divorce cases. The law provides for visitation that extends only through part of a day, overnight visitations, weekend visitations and extended visitations. The noncustodial parent is vested with the right to exercise visitation with her child to the full extent permitted by law

  • Domestic Violence Laws: What Are My Rights?

    Victims of domestic violence can sometimes feel like they have no way out and there is nothing they can do to protect themselves. However, the law does provide many options for domestic violence victims that can help improve their situations.

  • Connecticut Rights for Grandparents

    The Connecticut legislature has enacted a series of laws addressing the rights of grandparents with regard to their grandchildren. These laws include procedures to pursue these rights through the court system as well as the specific types of rights a grandparent is able to assert in the state of Connecticut.

  • 401k Rights in a Divorce

    401k accounts, like most other forms of savings or investment accounts, are subject to possible division when a married couple divorces. How this happens depends on the law of the state where the divorce takes place.

  • Divorce Property Rights

    When a married couple gets divorced, the property held before their marriage and obtained during their marriage must be classified into one of two different categories. Once property is classified, it is distributed between the parties one of two ways, depending upon the state the parties live in.

  • Definition of Alienation of Affection

    If you cheat on your spouse it could cost your lover lots of money. Several states allow jilted spouses to sue the lover of the offending spouse under an alienation of affection claim.

  • Financial Help With Moving Away From an Abusive Partner

    Staying in an abusive relationship because you lack money should never be an issue. Even if your partner is not harming children, they should be moved out of the situation as well. Once you decide to leave a domestic violence situation, seek financial help from organizations and legal recourse to money you are owed.

  • Retirement Rights and Divorce

    Many complicated issues are dealt with in a divorce case. High on the list of the more important and oftentimes complex matters in divorce proceedings is protecting the retirement rights of the parties through an appropriate division of pension, IRA and related accounts and plans.

  • Petitioners Rights in a Divorce

    If you intend to file for divorce, to become a petitioner in the divorce case, you must have a general understanding of your rights. Although both parties have explicit rights in a marriage termination action, a petitioner does immediately garner some specific rights in a divorce by virtue of starting the case.

  • Rights of Inmates in a Divorce

    When a person is incarcerated, he does not lose all rights. For example, there are specific rights of inmates in a divorce case that must be protected. There are certain family law procedures designed to protect the rights of inmates in divorce.

  • Legal Custody Rights in Divorce

    When the parents of a child no longer live together, courts become involved to develop a plan or set of rules regarding what each parent's role will be in the life of the child.

  • How to Divorce an Abusive Man

    If you are thinking about divorcing an abusive man, make a plan. Abusive husbands try to prevent women from filing for divorce by using intimidation, control tactics, violence or threaten to take the children away. Women have the legal right to divorce their husband without being threatened or bullied. Domestic violence is against the law in every state. Abusive spouses become more violent when a woman tries to leave. Safety is your first priority, especially if you have children. Find resources that will help you plan a successful and safe divorce. There are many domestic violence resources that are free…

  • What are the Rights to my Business in Divorce?

    In the absence of a prenuptial agreement, divorce proceedings can be devastating to a business. Your rights to a business will depend on many factors, including the state in which your business is located and the time that a business was incorporated. Only a lawyer will be able to guide you through the laws of your state, but using broad strategies will protect your interests in a company.

  • Child's Rights in a Divorce

    Issues such as child custody, child support and parenting time (visitation) are often primary considerations in a divorce case. Children have certain rights that protect them when the divorce court considers these issues.

  • What Are My Legal Rights in a Divorce?

    In preparing to file for divorce you must understand your basic legal rights. Your basic legal rights in a divorce case are divided in categories that include property and finances, children and court proceedings.

  • Rights in a Domestic Violence Related Divorce

    If you are seeking a divorce because of domestic violence, you have certain important rights. Ensure that your rights are protected fully through your divorce case by educating yourself and being proactive.

  • How to Save Your Assets in Divorce

    Divorce is difficult enough when two spouses with high-running emotions realize their marriage is falling apart. Things can get worse, even downright nasty, when exes start battling to the death over money, assets, and the marital home. Some spouses will fight to get everything they can get, whether it is rightfully theirs or not, out of sheer spite. This is why many of those preparing to split look for ways to save their assets in a divorce.

  • List of Mother's Rights in a Divorce

    A mother's rights during a divorce proceeding will depend on what the court or judge orders the mother to do. Most courts tend to favor the mother over the father when determining contested custody cases. The law clearly states that both parents should have equal rights over their children during a divorce proceeding regardless of the sex of the person.

  • Rights for Cohabiting Couples

    Though cohabiting couples do not receive as many rights or responsibilities as married couples, the law has recognized that a couple with a cohabitation arrangement, especially a long-term one, should be given some rights. Older laws infrequently recognized any bond between two people who simply lived together, but as couples in modern society have moved increasingly toward cohabitation before marriage, modern law needed to catch up.

  • Divorce Rights for Women

    Divorce rights for women protect a wife in regard to everything from child custody to maintenance issues. A major change in family law is the development of guidelines in these areas to protect against arbitrary decision making, which can negatively impact divorce rights for women.

  • Ways to Prove Cohabitation Child Custody

    Alleging and proving cohabitation in issues involving child custody can be tricky at times, especially when an individual is trying to do allege and prove another individual's cohabitation for adverse reasons. There is no universal standard that is use in all states or sometimes within a particular state. So, here are a few basic tips you should keep in mind.

  • Grandparents' Rights in a Divorce

    Even though the grandparent is not the biological parent of the grandchild, the grandparent still has legal rights in divorce cases. In an impending divorce, the child is not just being separated from one parent, but the grandparents as well. Family courts try their hardest to keep the divorce from affecting the child as much as possible. This includes allowing the child visitation with her grandparent. Some grandparents may petition for full custody of the grandchild, while some can lose their rights due to paternity issues.

  • Rights in a Divorce

    Both spouses have important rights in a divorce, and if you understand those rights you may be able to work out an agreement more easily. Laws about divorce are set by the states, so you need to find out which laws apply in yours. State statutes are often available online or at your local law library.

  • Military Dependent Divorce Rights

    When a person is serving in the U.S. military, the military has jurisdiction over that person in most cases. When a service member wants to get a divorce, the county and state that the service member is in has jurisdiction, unless the service member has not met the state's residency requirements. The service member's original state (domicile) may also have jurisdiction. For instance, if a service member lives in Georgia but is stationed in Florida for four years, he can file for divorce in his home state since he is only temporarily living out of state. If the service member…

  • Divorce Evidence Rights

    When filing for divorce, whether the divorce is contested or uncontested, you must provide discovery as directed by your state's laws. Your spouse has certain divorce evidence rights: The spouse has the right to see your assets and liabilities and you have the right to see what your spouse has. It is necessary to provide discovery so that the court---or you and your spouse, if you are working on a settlement agreement---can equitably distribute assets and liabilities.

  • About Divorce Women's Rights

    When a woman pursues a divorce, there are certain rights the woman possesses with respect to the matter. Issues relating to children and property are the most substantial areas of settlement when a divorce is pending. While each jurisdiction has specific requirements as to how these rights are administered, each jurisdiction has the same general rules as to what overall rights a woman pursuing a divorce may be entitled to receive.

  • Rights of Women in Africa

    While still behind the Western world, rights for African women have been gaining strength since the African Union adopted the Protocol on the Rights of Women in Africa in July 2003. A broad range of human rights issues are now covered by international law specifically pertaining to women, most importantly securing rights to their own bodies.

  • Grandparenting Laws

    Grandparents may not be the biological parents of the child, but in every state they have rights to see their grandchildren. In some states, grandparents are awarded custody of the children. If parents want to keep their children away from their grandparents, it will be up to family court to rule in their favor. If the court does not see reason to keep the child away from their grandparents, rights are given, and it is the law that those rights be followed.

  • How to File for Grandparents Rights

    Grandparents rights are a relatively new concept, and are still changing as we work to balance the rights of the parents to raise their children with what is in the best interest of the child. More often than not, when a grandparent wants to file for grandparents rights, they do so because they disagree with the way the parents are rearing their children, but this is not a valid reason to file. If you feel, however, that maintaining your prior relationship with your grandchild is in the best interest of the child, and your circumstances fit the required guidelines, then…

  • What Are the Legal Rights of Women in Divorce?

    The law is set up to protect the rights of all parties in a marriage. From financial support to custody of children to how assets are divided, family courts provide very specific rights to women. Before you file for divorce, it is important to know your rights and responsibilities. It is also important to note that while state laws vary regarding such issues as adultery and the processing times for the final divorce ruling, all 50 state agree on general terms such as the right to petition for spousal and child custody and to obtain a restraining order against an…

  • How to Negotiate Pension Rights in a Divorce

    Though divorce often ends in an equal 50-50 split of a couple's assets, the pension of one spouse is not always available to the other. A pension poses unique difficulties because it is not always yet the vested property of either spouse, and the claim of one spouse on another person's work related pension might be questionable. Even if there is the possibility to get a part of the pension, a court order must issue directing how the retirement system paying the pension should disburse the funds. Negotiation is an important part of any divorce proceeding, but particularly regarding pensions,…

  • How to Win a Domestic Violence Case

    Domestic violence is one of the most frequently committed and least prosecuted offenses in all of civil law. If you find yourself a victim of domestic violence, consider not only criminal prosecution but civil action as well. Don't just consider your own interests; by aggressively and courageously combating domestic violence, you will be doing a favor to other victims (present and future who might otherwise be afraid to speak out.

  • How to Get a Divorce Online

    For around $250 to $350, you can complete the paperwork necessary for a divorce on-line. The legal paperwork will still need to be faxed, mailed, or taken in person to your local courthouse, but skipping the price of an attorney might just well be worth it. Here are the steps necessary to complete the paperwork on-line.

ehow.com
  • About eHow
  • How to by Topic
  • How to Videos
  • Sitemap

Copyright © 1999-2012 Demand Media, Inc.
Use of this web site constitutes acceptance of the eHow Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Ad Choices en-US

Legal
Verisign seal