DIVORCE
Nobody gets married expecting their relationships to end in divorce. Sometimes
they do. When couples divorce, they need to think about their assets, debts,
expenses, children, and properties. Not all issues need to be contested, and
having an attorney focused on areas that are contested could save you from
having to spend more time and money and potentially continuing to come back
to court.

PARENTAGE
Like divorces with children, parentage cases involve what is in the best interest
of the children. Parents need to consider who will make major decisions for the
children such as what school they attend, where the children will physically
spend their time, and then the costs associated with raising the children. The
process can be emotional. An attorney can help you sort out your options and
help you reach a solution.

ADOPTIONS
Vermont offers a number of solutions for those minors requiring legal
guardianship – including stepparent, near-relative, and non-relative adoptions.
The process may involve going through probate court and the biological parent
relinquishing his/her rights. The process can be complicated with a lot of
paperwork involved. The emotions can be difficult. We are available to help you
through that process.

POST-ADOPTION CONTACT AGREEMENTS
Foster parents who are considering adopting a child through a proceeding
involving the Department of Children and Families have a lot to consider. The
pre-adoptive parents are often asked to consider a post-adoption contact
agreement (PACA). Consider consulting with an attorney so you understand
what your rights and obligations are under a PACA. Your attorney can also help
you negotiate with the biological parents’ attorney for terms that are acceptable
to you and are best for the child.