Same-sex couples in Pennsylvania can now have their marriages recognized in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Since the Supreme Court ruled that same-sex marriages are constitutional, many people are wondering how that decision will impact the dissolution of these types of unions. Some believe that the nuances of same-sex divorce will have to be worked out in the future through litigation.
The impact of parental substance abuse on custody proceedings
A Pennsylvania parent facing a custody battle might wonder about how a past history of illegal drug use, domestic violence or other negative behavior will affect the outcome. News of the breakup of Kourtney Kardashian and Scott Disick brings such interests into the limelight as the celebrity couple will deal with custody issues involving their own three children. The father has recently gotten out of a drug rehab, which might have some influence on the formal custody decisions. However, additional issues such as the current primary caretaker, Kardashian, and the wishes of both parents could be important as the final decision is rendered.
Division of debt in divorce
As Pennsylvania couples likely know, divorce involves division of assets when spouses go their separate ways. Some individuals may not realize it includes the division of debts, and knowing how this works might help to avoid surprises and stress during the divorce proceedings.
Supreme Court legalizes same-sex marriage
On June 26, the Supreme Court issued a ruling that declared state bans against same-sex marriage a violation of the U.S. Constitution. In a 5-4 decision, the court said that states did not have the right to deny gay couples the same marriage rights that heterosexuals have enjoyed. The practice has been legal in Pennsylvania since 2014.
