In Connecticut, child support orders can only be modified when there is a substantial change in circumstances that makes adjusting the support fair and appropriate. Understanding what qualifies as a significant change and how the courts evaluate requests is essential for parents seeking to adjust their child support obligations. If you are seeking to modify…
If you are pursuing alimony in your Connecticut divorce, it is vital to work with an experienced family law attorney. Alimony is not guaranteed, in fact, it’s only awarded when one spouse demonstrates a genuine need for support and the other has the financial means to provide it. Since the family court judge has wide…
The separation of property is often one of the most challenging and contentious aspects of a divorce proceeding. In Connecticut, state law follows the principle of “equitable distribution,” meaning that all marital property must be divided in a way that is fair and equitable to both of the parties. However, this does not mean the…
Child custody refers to the legal responsibility to make decisions about a minor child’s care. In Connecticut, child custody matters frequently arise during a separation or divorce, but they can also arise in cases between unmarried parents, grandparents, or other relatives. The court’s primary focus in these cases is to determine the arrangement that promotes…
All marriages experience ups and downs, but if you’ve reached a point where you’re seriously considering ending your relationship, it may be time to explore your legal remedies. Two different options in the state of Connecticut are divorce and legal separation. While they may seem similar, they both carry very different legal implications. A divorce…
A post-judgment modification is a petition to the court asking it to change an existing order. In family law, this can involve changing child custody, child support, or spousal support orders. The person seeking the modification bears the burden of proof to demonstrate that a substantial change in circumstances has occurred and that modifying the…
Getting married is an exciting milestone filled with plans for the future. But alongside the joy, it is also important to have clear conversations about finances and what could happen if the marriage doesn’t last. While no one enters a marriage expecting divorce, planning for the unexpected can help protect both partners. A prenuptial agreement,…
In the state of Connecticut, anyone pursuing a divorce has the option to file for either a contested or an uncontested divorce. Some couples are able to reach an agreement on all aspects of their split and file an uncontested divorce, while others may face unresolved issues that require the involvement of the family court…
All child custody decisions in Connecticut are based on what serves the best interests of the child. While it is important for both parents to be involved in a child’s life, the court does not always determine that both parents are entitled to 50% equal custody. A Connecticut family court judge has wide discretion when…
Welcome to Merino Family Law At Merino Family Law, we understand that family legal matters can be complex and deeply personal. Whether you’re facing a divorce, custody dispute, or another family law issue, our mission is to provide compassionate, strategic, and results-driven representation. Our firm is dedicated to helping individuals and families navigate the legal process…