Civil Harassment

Domestic violence cases involve a special relationship between the parties. The special relationship may be created by: (1) a family relationship, such as husband and wife; or (2) cohabitation, i.e., the parties live together. Civil harassment cases do not involve a special relationship between the parties. A civil harassment complaint may be filed against any person, even if that person is not a spouse or a cohabitant.

Establishment of a Guardianship

A guardianship is a legal right given to an individual to be responsible for the care, housing, and basic necessities of another individual, commonly referred to as the ward, who is deemed incapable or unable to care for themselves.

Adoption and Safe Families Act - Permanency Plans and Hearings

The Adoption and Safe Families Act (ASFA) requires states to conduct a permanency hearing within 12 months of a child's placement in foster care and at least every 12 months thereafter for as long as the child is in foster care. The date of the child's placement in foster care is the earlier of the following two dates: the date of the first judicial finding that the child is abused or neglected, or 60 days after the removal of the child from his or her home.

Separation and Divorce Between United States Citizens and Non-citizens

Separation and divorce between citizens and non-citizens can occur just as separation and divorce occurs between two citizens. Non-citizens who reside in the United States are entitled to the same rights as legal citizens residing in the United States. If both the citizen and non-citizen reside in the United States, both have access to the same court system and procedures.

Alimony and Spousal Support

Alimony, spousal support, or maintenance is the payment of support from one party to another in order to keep the receiving party in the lifestyle that they were accustomed to during the course of their marriage.