Complex Family Law Issues

Some family law disputes involve layers of complexity beyond standard divorce or custody proceedings.

High-Asset Divorce

When significant wealth is involved — business interests, real estate portfolios, stock options, restricted stock units, deferred compensation, cryptocurrency holdings, and complex trust structures — the equitable distribution analysis becomes a valuation exercise. Business valuations, forensic accounting, pension valuations, and expert testimony are often required. The stakes justify the investment in thorough analysis.

Prenuptial & Postnuptial Agreements

Pennsylvania enforces prenuptial agreements under the Uniform Premarital Agreement Act (23 Pa.C.S. § 3106). A prenup is enforceable if: (1) it was executed voluntarily, (2) there was full and fair disclosure of assets and liabilities (or waiver of disclosure), and (3) it was not unconscionable at the time of execution. Post-nuptial agreements are also recognized but face heightened scrutiny.

Grandparent Custody and Visitation Rights

Grandparents can seek custody or visitation under limited circumstances in Pennsylvania:

• Custody (§ 5324): Grandparents can file for custody if they have stood in loco parentis (acted as a parent) to the child, or if the parents' relationship poses a risk to the child
• Partial custody / visitation (§ 5325): Grandparents may seek visitation if a parent is deceased, if the parents are divorced or separated, or if the child has lived with the grandparent for 12+ months. The court must find that visitation serves the child's best interest and does not interfere with the parent-child relationship.

Domestic Violence and Its Impact on Family Law

Domestic violence affects every aspect of family law — custody determinations, property distribution, support, and access to the family home. Under § 5328(a)(2), the court must consider any history of abuse as a factor in custody. A parent with a history of abuse faces a presumption against receiving sole or shared custody, which can only be overcome by clear and convincing evidence that custody with the abusive parent serves the child's best interest.