Law Office of Joanne Kleiner

Archives for June 2013

Jun 26, 2013

Parental alienation syndrome

Although some legal experts and psychologists do not recognize the existence of parental alienation syndrome (PAS) as an actual syndrome, the act of parental alienation has become an increasingly popular tactic in custody battles between divorcing or divorced parents. Parental alienation is best described to be an intentional and systematic effort by one parent to alienate a child from the other parent. Such action can take a variety of forms. For example, it may exist where one parent discourages, punishes or prohibits a child from spending time with the other parent or even deterring a child’s communication or visitation with the other parent. When determining the best interests of the child in custody disputes, Courts closely consider the behavior of the parents and the affect such behavior has on the child.

Protect your rights and those of your children – contact Jenkintown child custody attorneys at Joanne E. Kleiner & Associates today.

Jun 19, 2013

Why you should be honest in your child custody case

The current ongoing custody dispute over Charlie Sheen and Brooke Mueller’s two sons, Bob and Max, has proven that embellished allegations of the opposing party gets you no where in the eyes of the court. Brooke has recently sought to have the court remove her two sons from the care and custody of Denise Richards. In attempt to do so, Brooke claimed that Denise was merely taking care of the boys for the sole purpose to receive child support. Denise promptly rebutted this argument with solid proof in the form of a sworn declaration that she had refused to receive any money from Charlie, ever.

Regardless of the situation, child custody cases tend to be complicated and deeply emotional. Therefore, it is always best to remain honest and amicable throughout the divorce process. By exaggerating or making false allegations of the other party, you will only prolong the process and ruin your credibility with the court. As such, the court will continue to view you as dishonest and weigh in favor of the other side. Not only does honesty fair well with the court, it generally helps to prevent unnecessary or additional conflict and adversity. For instance, lying and being unreasonable throughout the process will most likely prove to be counterproductive and will unnecessarily increase the complexity, length and cost of the case.

Protect your rights and those of your children – contact Jenkintown child custody attorneys at Joanne E. Kleiner & Associates today.

Jun 03, 2013

Divorce final? – Next steps to take

Even though your divorce may be finalized, issues may still arise regarding enforcement of the terms of the divorce as required by the settlement agreement or court order. Such issues may be resolved by additional court proceedings. Also, if circumstances drastically change in the future, you may seek approval from the court to change the terms of your divorce, including those that relate to child custody and child support. However, the court will not reconsider the division of property once the divorce is finalized, absent serious and exigent circumstances, such as fraud.

For additional information about Pennsylvania family law or the divorce process, or to discuss your particular situation and learn about your options, please schedule a confidential consultation with attorney Joanne Kleiner by calling us at 215-886-1266. Or, fill out our intake form and we will contact you. The decisions you make today really will affect your future. Let us help you make those decisions intelligent and informed.