| Same-Sex Marriages, Civil Unions, and Domestic Partnerships |
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| Although many people interchange the terms same-sex marriage and civil union, they are actually two different and distinct concepts. A same-sex marriage is defined as a marriage between two individuals of the same gender. A same-sex marriage involves a certain legal status for the couple. Further, each state has its own requirements with respect to marriage. More... |
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| Planning for a Divorce |
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| Although no person wants to think about planning for a divorce, divorce occurs in almost 50 percent of all marriages. If one party is thinking about divorce he or she should plan prior to filing for divorce. One should especially consider the financial consequences of divorce.More... |
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| The Multiethnic Placement Act |
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| The Multiethnic Placement Act (MEPA) is a federal law, enacted in 1994, that prohibits racial and ethnic discrimination in connection with adoptions and foster care. A 1996 amendment, called "Removal of Barriers to Interethnic Adoption," reaffirmed and strengthened the MEPA.
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| Dependency Proceedings |
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| There are several circumstances that may lead to the removal of a child from his or her parents to become placed as a dependent of the juvenile court. Some of these grounds are the removal of children who have suffered or are likely to suffer neglect or abuse. Other situations include the inability of the parent or guardian to provide regular care for the child due to mental illness, developmental disability, or substance abuse. A child may also become a dependent of the court if the child's parent has become incarcerated or institutionalized and has been unable to arrange for care of the child during that time. More... |
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| Common Mistakes Made in Divorce Actions With Respect to Children and Finances |
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| Typically in a divorce action one or both parties have a lot of hostility and animosity toward one another. Individuals make a barrage of mistakes. Some mistakes may not only be harmful to the individual himself but may also be financially harmful. More... |
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