Columbia Family Divorce Law Blog

What Happens When Only One Parent Wants to Terminate Parental Rights?

What Happens When Only One Parent Wants to Terminate Parental Rights?

When it comes to family law, few topics are as challenging as terminating parental rights. It’s a decision that cuts to the core of family relationships and carries profound implications for all involved, especially the child at the center of the case.

Gavel on table with divorced parents and child in background

Can You Relocate With Children After Divorce? Legal Barriers and Exceptions

Can You Relocate With Children After Divorce? Legal Barriers and Exceptions

The end of a marriage is challenging for any family, but the challenges don't always stop once the divorce is finalized. When one parent wishes to relocate with their child, it can create a situation that is fraught with emotions, questions, and concerns. If you're facing this situation as a parent, we know how much you care about your child’s stability, future, and happiness.

Child holding doll among cardboard boxes

When One Parent Tries to Alienate a Child: Legal Remedies That Work

When One Parent Tries to Alienate a Child: Legal Remedies That Work

Families are built on love, trust, and connection, but when these bonds are tested, it can cause profound heartache. For many parents, raising children together, even after a divorce or separation, is challenging yet rewarding. However, what happens when one parent actively tries to harm the relationship between a child and the other parent?

Mother looking at her daughter while she holds on tightly to her father

Military Divorce and the 10/10 Rule: What It Means for Retirement Pay

Military Divorce and the 10/10 Rule: What It Means for Retirement Pay

Divorces involving military service members bring unique challenges that civilian couples rarely face. One of the most significant issues revolves around military retirement pay and how it may be divided during a divorce.

Hands of soldier male who is about to taking off his wedding ring

Can Grandparents Get Visitation Rights? What the Law Really Says

Can Grandparents Get Visitation Rights? What the Law Really Says

Grandparents often hold a special place in a child’s life, offering stability, wisdom, and emotional support that can complement parental guidance. Many grandparents are deeply involved in daily routines, celebrations, and milestones, forming meaningful bonds that last a lifetime.

Granny and Grandpa are Excited to Meet Their Young Daughter

5 Unique Challenges Military Families Face in Child Custody Disputes

5 Unique Challenges Military Families Face in Child Custody Disputes

Military families face unique circumstances that can make child custody disputes more challenging than they might be for civilian families.

Military Father Hugging His Daughter With An American Flag

How Courts Handle Parenting Plans for Children With Special Needs

How Courts Handle Parenting Plans for Children With Special Needs

Parenting a child with special needs brings unique joys and challenges. Parents often face concerns about education, medical care, and daily routines, which can feel overwhelming during custody proceedings.

Special need child with parents

How Does Military Family Law Affect Child Custody and Visitation?

How Does Military Family Law Affect Child Custody and Visitation?

Military life is rewarding but demanding. Deployments, relocations, and unpredictable schedules can make parenting difficult. Children may struggle with changes, and parents may feel uncertain about their legal rights.

Military father visiting his children

Essential Clauses for Domestic Partnership Agreements

Essential Clauses for Domestic Partnership Agreements

Entering a domestic partnership marks a meaningful commitment. We know it’s about building a life together while protecting each partner’s rights and responsibilities. You want an agreement that feels fair, thoughtful, and aligned with your shared goals.

Happy couples at home

Defending Your Rights During a CPS Investigation

Defending Your Rights During a CPS Investigation

As a parent or guardian, child protective services (CPS) investigations are often stressful and unsettling. These investigations usually arise from allegations of abuse or neglect, which can leave you feeling concerned about your children’s safety and your own legal standing. Therefore, understanding your rights and having a plan of action is crucial when responding to CPS inquiries.

Gavel with children in background