Some Pennsylvania residents who are getting a divorce might want to try to keep the family home. Often, this may be for emotional rather than practical reasons, and doing so may not be financially feasible. There are a number of factors that should be considered including the home's value, whether the person is employed, and whether the person can refinance or buy out the other party.
Child support modification made easier
In Pennsylvania, separated parents can modify child support payments due to circumstances such as loss of income or change in marital status. To establish a child support modification, it is necessary for both parents to agree to the new terms, and a judge has to order the change. While this is a complicated process, there are a few tips that can help make requesting a child support modification a bit easier.
Divorce and 401(k)s
Pennsylvania residents who are considering getting a divorce should know what could happen to their 401(k). Although the retirement plan is offered to employees and is not considered a joint asset, it can be divided between employees and their spouses, even if the plan predates the marriage. However, this is only possible if certain criteria related to the Internal Revenue Code and the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 are met.
Relocating with your child after divorce is possible
Depending on your child custody arrangements, it may be difficult to move and still see your child. If you have primary custody, you may not be allowed to move because it would make it difficult for the other parent to see your child.
About same-sex marriage
After a groundbreaking ruling that was issued by the United States Supreme Court on June 26, 2015, same-sex couples in Pennsylvania and the rest of the country had a constitutional right to get married. The ruling was partly based on how the Court interpreted the 14th Amendment. The Court determined that allowing only heterosexual couples to get married was in violation of the constitutional right for equal protection according to the law.
