We live in a day of what is termed “graying divorce.” Older couples are deciding that what no man should put “asunder” will be asundered anyway, Gospel of St. Matthew notwithstanding. And as we all know, the divorce is neither
Mark Ashton
The Pennsylvania Divorce and Domestic Relations Blog, authored by Mark Ashton, focuses on legal issues related to family law within Pennsylvania. It covers topics such as divorce proceedings, custody disputes, equitable distribution of assets, and related court rulings. The blog provides analysis of recent case law, practical considerations in divorce and domestic relations, and commentary on legal developments affecting families. It also addresses specific matters like military pensions, asset valuation, and procedural aspects of family law litigation. The content is aimed at legal professionals and individuals interested in Pennsylvania family law matters.
Another 2nd Amendment Case with a Pennsylvania Twist
By Mark Ashton
On July 24 the U.S. District Court issued a ruling setting aside some of Pennsylvania’s gun regulations. Judge Christopher Conner begins his decision noting that the Commonwealth is pretty much an open carry state. But the state does have laws…
Equitable Distribution: Don’t Forget the “Rump” Assets
By Mark Ashton
There are actually two meanings for the word “rump”. The American one is known to all of us. But(t), the British use the term to describe a group of individuals who remain affiliated after the rest of group has departed. …
A “Dear” Clarification of Ex Parte Communications & Failure to Meet Custody Ruling Deadlines
By Mark Ashton
August 13 brought us a non-precedential ruling on two long disputed topics. The two quick takeaways are:
…
Superior Court Goes “Precedential” with a Military Pension Case
By Mark Ashton
Except in communities which have significant military enclaves, most lawyers don’t know much about the world of military compensation. It is a world with different rules because many people in the military are itinerant; traveling the world in support of…
A Video That is the Litmus Test of When Reason is Lost
By Mark Ashton
I happened upon Caleb Leverett’s video from 11 years ago by accident. Be forewarned that this is a long video but you can skip through it. Caleb, the father of 14 year old Parker Leverett is recording the video the…
Pennsylvania’s “Great Valley” Problem. Who is Liable for the Damage Your Child Inflicts?
By Mark Ashton
The problem is not a new one. But, the magnitude of what happened this year when 7th and 8th graders at Great Valley Middle School in Chester County, Pa. decided to weaponize Tik-Tok to attack their teachers seems unprecedented.
The…
Thinking About Social Security & “Opportunity Cost”
By Mark Ashton
Because divorce is its own course in financial planning, we try to stay abreast of smart ways to approach retirement. As everyone should know, social security comes in three flavors;
Early retirement at age 62 for which the maximum benefit…
Is The Gunman You Should Fear Occupying Your House
By Mark Ashton
This is an immensely challenging topic. Earlier in 2024 I wrote for a different blogsite about the risk that you and your spouse might be criminally and civilly liable if a child or other resident secured possession of your gun(s)…
Polyamory by a Different Name but Yielding the Same Result
By Mark Ashton
Lots of news these days about evolutions in relationships. To some degree this may be another example of internet clickbait, but we have run into articles about people who have decided to “accept” the fact that their spouse is discretely…