Carlisle Family Lawyer

Ending a marriage is one of the most challenging legal matters. In Pennsylvania, you can file a no-fault divorce after 12 months of separation or pursue fault-based grounds like cruelty or abandonment.

• No-Fault Divorce: Mutual consent cases can often finish within a few months.

• Fault-Based Divorce: Speeds up the process if you prove grounds such as domestic violence.

Our experienced divorce attorneys will:

• Advise on filing paperwork, timelines, and options.

• Address asset division, alimony, and child-related matters.

• Protect your legal rights in negotiations over property, retirement, and spousal support.

Child Custody & Child Support

After separation, protecting children’s well-being is paramount. Courts decide custody based on the child’s best interests considering emotional ties, stability, and parents’ abilities.

Child Custody types:

• Legal Custody: Which refers to the right to make significant decisions regarding the child’s upbringing such as decisions about education, and healthcare.

• Physical Custody: Where the child lives.

Child support uses a formula based on both parents’ incomes, number of children, and custody arrangement. If finances or custody schedules change, you can seek modifications through the court.

At Grace Legal, our child custody lawyers will:

• Offer a consultation to explain the legal process.

• Provide great advice on parenting plans and support calculations.

• Use our local knowledge to pursue or enforce support orders.

Domestic Violence & Protection Orders

If you’re a victim of domestic violence, your safety is non-negotiable. In Carlisle and surrounding PA areas, you can obtain a Protection From Abuse (PFA) order to prevent an abuser from contacting or approaching you. Temporary PFAs often issue the same day you file, providing immediate protection.

At Grace Legal our PFA attorneys will:

• Assist in gathering evidence and filing your PFA petition accurately.

• Provide timely advice so you receive protection as soon as possible.

• Represent you in court to ensure your rights and safety remain the priority.

Parental & Grandparents’ Rights

• Parental Rights: Parents retain rights to custody, visitation, and decision-making. If mediation fails, a court hearing determines custody, focusing on the child’s best interests. Our lawyers for parental rights help you assert your role in your children’s lives.

• Grandparents’ Rights: Pennsylvania allows grandparents to seek custody or visitation if parents separate, one parent dies, or a child lived with the grandparents. Courts look at the best interests of the child and existing bonds. We guide grandparents through petitioning, evidence-gathering, and hearings.

Spousal Support & Alimony

Spousal support (during divorce) and alimony (post-divorce) help lower-earning spouses maintain a standard of living. Courts review:

• Length of marriage

• Income and earning potential

• Standard of living during marriage

• Contributions to the household

Adoption & Other Legal Services in Carlisle, PA

Adoption is a joyful but complex process. Whether adopting a stepchild or via agency, we’ll assist with home studies, background checks, and court approvals so you can focus on your new family member.

We also offer legal services for prenuptial agreements, guardianships, and restraining orders beyond domestic violence such as like elder abuse. For any family legal matter, we provide reliable resources and are your point of contact for questions.