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In some cases a grandparent may want to petition for full custody of their grandchild where the child’s parent suffers from mental health problems, drug or alcohol addiction, or has been abusive or neglectful of the child in the past. In such cases the court will consider both the continuing relationship between parent and child […]

The term “estate planning” can be a bit of a misnomer. The term “estate” can summon images of a stately manor full of housekeepers and stables out back. The truth is that every single person has an “estate” – whether that means assets, liabilities, or dependents that rely on them for everyday care and financial […]

So you’ve made the responsible decision and purchased a life insurance policy to ensure your dependents will be cared for in the unfortunate event something happens to you. Naming a beneficiary should be the easy part, right? But mistakes made when choosing your beneficiary can lead to unforeseen consequences.  When a mistake happens, it can […]

Spousal support can be a major aspect of divorce cases in Virginia. The court may order temporary support while the case is pending and may order time-limited or even permanent spousal support at the end of the case.  Spousal support, also known as alimony or maintenance in other states, is not to be confused with child […]

    When it comes to estate planning, most families have the same objectives: to provide income for their children or other descendants. Parents want their children to continue having the sa me comfortable lifestyle and the freedom to pursue their education and career objectives. But what happens if your children are still under 18? […]

Keep the Money, and Run! In a recent case, the Virginia Supreme Court allowed a divorced wife to keep almost $63,000 worth of survivor benefits wrongfully paid to her by OPM. Read more. Read the opinion here: Emond v. Office of Personnel Management (CAFC No. 2016-1227 (nonprecedential), 4/8/16

What happens to child support when one parent switches careers or quits their job? Guideline Child Support Every parent has a duty to support their children, whether or not they are employed. When parents divorce or separate, one or both may petition the court for child support. The court will order both parents to provide […]

Melone Law, P.C. is pleased to announce the addition of Priti Khanna to the firm as Of Counsel. Ms. Khanna brings years of experience in the areas of immigration law, bankruptcy, and family law. Ms. Khanna is passionate about getting the best results for her clients while maintaining a high level of customer service.

Now that the lottery has reached a record $1.4 billion, many people are rushing to buy tickets and, better yet, make plans for what to do with all of their winnings. But the dreaded “lottery curse” exists for a reason (read more here). Many lotto players may not consider the financial responsibility, and better yet, estate planning […]