Law Offices of Jeffrey S. Evans Law Offices of Jeffrey S. Evans 2026-05-22T12:07:13Z https://www.jevanslaw.net/feed/atom/ WordPress /wp-content/uploads/sites/1403708/2019/10/cropped-je-favicon-32x32.jpg On Behalf of Law Offices of Jeffrey S. Evans <![CDATA[Can foreclosure be stopped once it begins?]]> https://www.jevanslaw.net/?p=47951 2026-05-22T12:07:13Z 2026-05-22T12:07:13Z Options that may still be available If foreclosure has started, that does not always mean you have run out of ways to address the problem. Depending on your financial situation, the stage of the foreclosure case and the terms of your mortgage, you may still have options such as:
  • Seeking a loan modification to make payments more manageable
  • Entering a repayment plan to catch up on missed payments
  • Requesting temporary forbearance during a financial hardship
  • Refinancing the mortgage if you qualify
  • Selling the property before foreclosure completes
  • Raising legal defenses based on lender errors
  • Filing bankruptcy to temporarily stop foreclosure in some situations
Not every option will work in every case; much depends on your mortgage terms, the amount you owe and how far the foreclosure process has progressed. An option that works early in the process may no longer be available later.

Mistakes that can make foreclosure harder to stop

Waiting too long to respond can limit your options. Ignoring letters from the lender or court may cause deadlines to pass, making it harder to address the foreclosure. Some homeowners also assume that moving out means the process is over, but leaving the property does not necessarily end the legal or financial issues tied to the home. Panic can create additional problems. Some homeowners fall for foreclosure rescue scams that promise quick solutions in exchange for money or personal information. Others make rushed financial decisions, such as draining retirement savings or signing documents without fully reviewing the consequences. Before taking a major step, it helps to know what options may still be available.

Taking action before options run out

Foreclosure can feel overwhelming, especially when deadlines, notices and financial pressure start piling up. But a foreclosure notice does not always mean you are out of options or that losing your home will happen immediately. In many cases, what happens next depends on where you are in the process and what choices are still available at that stage. If foreclosure has started, it can help to take a clear look at your situation before making assumptions or ignoring the problem. Reviewing the notices you have received, knowing where the case stands and identifying possible options can help you make informed decisions while there is still time.]]> On Behalf of Law Offices of Jeffrey S. Evans <![CDATA[Can a growing career affect child custody?]]> https://www.jevanslaw.net/?p=47947 2026-04-21T09:43:35Z 2026-04-21T09:43:35Z Career growth can bring new roles, higher income and important changes in daily life. It can also shift how parents manage time after separation or divorce. In Pennsylvania, custody decisions are guided by the best interests of the child. Courts do not reward or punish a parent for job success. Still, changes in work hours, income or location can affect custody schedules and obligations. Understanding how courts evaluate these changes can help parents make informed decisions during periods of transition.

How Pennsylvania courts approach custody and support

Pennsylvania courts decide custody based on the child’s safety, stability and overall needs. Judges consider each parent’s ability to provide care and maintain a consistent routine. A career change does not automatically change custody rights. However, courts may modify orders if employment changes significantly affect parenting time or income. 

Key factors courts consider when careers change

When a parent’s job situation changes, courts look at how those changes affect the child’s daily routine and long-term stability. Employment conditions can influence custody decisions. Courts often consider:
  • Work schedules and how they affect parenting time
  • Income changes that impact support obligations
  • Job-related travel or relocation requirements
  • The ability to maintain stable childcare arrangements
  • Each parent’s willingness to support the child’s relationship with the other parent
These factors help courts determine whether changes are needed to protect consistency in the child’s life. Even positive career growth can lead to adjustments if it disrupts established routines.

Balancing career growth with parental responsibility

Career advancement and parental responsibilities often overlap and require balance. A job change does not remove legal responsibility for a child, but it may change how that responsibility is shared. Parents facing these issues may benefit from legal guidance to understand their rights and options. Speaking with an attorney can help clarify next steps and support decisions that protect both career goals and the child’s long-term well-being.]]> On Behalf of Law Offices of Jeffrey S. Evans <![CDATA[Pennsylvania estate planning: How does writing a will help you?]]> https://www.jevanslaw.net/?p=47945 2026-03-13T14:11:12Z 2026-03-13T14:11:12Z How is writing a will beneficial? A will allows you to make clear decisions about your property and which of your family members will inherit it. By writing a plan with clear instructions, courts and loved ones can follow them to the best of their ability to honor your final wishes. A will helps you and your family by:
  • Naming who inherits: You can decide who gets to inherit from your estate after you pass away.
  • Allowing you to choose a personal representative: You can nominate an executor to distribute your assets, manage probate and pay your debts in your stead.
  • Planning for your minor children: You can nominate guardians for your minor children who can take care of them after your passing.
  • Reducing the likelihood of conflict: You can establish your wishes and provide your family with a sense of direction, possibly limiting disputes over who gets what and why.
  • Supporting a smoother probate process: Probate refers to the legal process of validating a will and managing a deceased person’s estate. Your executor can follow written instructions to distribute your assets and settle your debts.
By putting your wishes in writing, you can create a clear path for your family. In doing so, you can save them a lot of time and spare them from stress and potential disagreements. Bear in mind that wills usually do not control assets that go directly to someone else, such as life insurance, retirement accounts with named beneficiaries or jointly owned property with someone who has survivorship rights.

How wills turn your wishes into plans for the future

By having a will in place, you can protect the futures of your family and the people you care about even after you pass away. With the help of an executor to manage your assets and provide instructions for your family, you can prevent conflict between your loved ones. While it might be daunting to write a will, it can be a freeing and rewarding experience. Taking the time to plan for the future can provide you with some peace of mind. With a clear plan, you can take solace in the fact that your family will carry out your final wishes.]]> On Behalf of Law Offices of Jeffrey S. Evans <![CDATA[4 FAQ about Pennsylvania child support]]> https://www.jevanslaw.net/?p=47940 2026-03-13T12:38:22Z 2026-03-13T12:31:34Z What is an income withholding order? Income withholding is a court order that directs the “obligator” or paying parent’s employer to deduct support payments from their paychecks. For instance, if you are the noncustodial parent, you will most likely be the obligator. This system helps track your payments and provides a consistent stream of financial support for your children.

What is medical support?

If your child support case has a medical support order, it can provide financial assistance for your children’s private health insurance, Medicaid, Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and cash medical support.

What are arrears?

Arrears are unpaid child support owed by the paying parent. When you or your ex-spouse gets behind on your support obligations or stops paying it entirely, the unpaid amounts add up and become arrears.

When can I update my child support costs?

If you or your children are going through a substantial and material change in circumstances, you can file a petition for modification with the court that made your original support order. These qualifying changes may include:
  • Significant increase or decrease in your income
  • Involuntary job loss
  • Changes in your family’s size
  • Changes to your custody arrangement
  • Changes in your children’s healthcare or educational costs
Aside from the petition form, you will also need to submit documentation that can support your reason. While it is not mandatory to hire a lawyer for this process, they can help provide legal guidance for your concerns and advise you on what documentation can strengthen your case. By learning the answers to the basic questions about child support in Pennsylvania, you can become more familiar with the process and put your financial worries to rest.]]> On Behalf of Law Offices of Jeffrey S. Evans <![CDATA[Does dating someone new affect your alimony?]]> https://www.jevanslaw.net/?p=47938 2026-03-03T15:48:14Z 2026-03-03T15:48:14Z Common triggers for alimony changes Life changes can lead a court to modify or end support payments. Common reasons include:
  • Remarriage of the receiving spouse: Courts usually end alimony automatically when you remarry.
  • Cohabitation with a new partner: State law may bar alimony if you begin living with a romantic partner in a relationship that resembles a marriage.
  • Death of either spouse: Alimony usually stops if you or your former spouse dies unless a prior agreement or court order requires payments to continue from the paying spouse’s estate or life insurance.
  • Substantial change in financial circumstances: A court may review the support order if you or your former spouse experiences a major and ongoing change in income or financial need.
Casually dating someone is not the same as cohabitation, and Pennsylvania courts recognize your right to move on and form new relationships. Simply spending the night together on occasion does not automatically jeopardize your alimony.

The paying spouse's right to investigate

If your ex-spouse believes you are living with a new partner, they have the right to ask the court for a review. To support their claim, the paying spouse may gather proof such as:
  • Statements from neighbors or mutual friends
  • Social media posts that suggest a committed home life
  • Reports from private investigators hired to legally document your daily routines
The burden of proof rests on the paying spouse. They must show that the relationship includes the kind of financial and domestic ties that Pennsylvania courts treat as cohabitation, a standard established by state statute and appellate case law. If the court rules in their favor, any termination to alimony can apply back to the date the petition was filed. That means you could owe money for payments you received after that date.

Your next step

Consulting with an attorney can help you figure out whether your living arrangement might meet the legal bar for cohabitation. Even if your relationship has not reached the level of cohabitation, staying aware of the rules is a wise move. Some divorce agreements contain custom terms that could affect your support in ways you might not expect.]]> On Behalf of Law Offices of Jeffrey S. Evans <![CDATA[Common types of adoption recognized under Pennsylvania law]]> https://www.jevanslaw.net/?p=47932 2026-02-13T15:55:16Z 2026-02-20T15:53:55Z Adoption can help you grow your family and give security for a child. If you plan to adopt in Pennsylvania, you have several options that follow state rules and affect privacy, court review and timing. Learning these options can help you compare choices and get ready for the process.

What are your adoption options?

In Pennsylvania, adoption cases follow the Adoption Act and are handled by the county Orphans’ Court. It must check that each adoption serves the child’s best interests. The state recognizes several adoption paths:
  • Agency adoption: This works through licensed agencies and needs screening and court approval
  • Private adoption: This involves attorneys or approved intermediaries, where you must follow Pennsylvania consent laws and document any birth parent expenses for court review
  • Stepparent adoption: This lets you adopt your spouse’s child and usually requires the other parent’s consent or a court-ordered termination, with courts checking the parent’s role and what is best for the child
  • Relative adoption: This allows family members to adopt and may allow some flexibility, depending on the court
  • International adoption: This involves adopting a child from another country; Pennsylvania may need court approval or readoption, depending on whether the foreign adoption is final and how the child enters the U.S.
Stepparent and relative adoptions may follow different procedures and courts can change requirements based on the case. Each option generally needs court review, background checks and a home study unless Pennsylvania law allows a waiver. Courts also check consent documents before approval.

Choosing an adoption path that fits your family goals

You may want privacy, flexible timing and clear legal rules during adoption. Pennsylvania rules can affect these priorities. Licensed social workers or adoption agencies conduct home studies to look at your home and finances. Consent laws decide who must sign, when and how; they can also limit when a parent can challenge consent. Orphans’ Court schedules, on the other hand, can affect timing. Your career demands and travel schedule may also shape which path fits your life. Some adoptions involve agency coordination and set timelines. Others rely more on direct legal coordination. Financial readiness helps, but Pennsylvania law still requires compliance with court procedures.

Planning for stability as your family grows

Understanding Pennsylvania adoption categories helps you compare options with confidence. Early planning can reduce delays and protect your goals. Legal support may help you navigate court requirements and consent rules. It can guide you as you prepare to welcome a child into your family.]]> On Behalf of Law Offices of Jeffrey S. Evans <![CDATA[5 milestones when you should update your Pennsylvania estate plan]]> https://www.jevanslaw.net/?p=47928 2026-02-09T07:32:04Z 2026-02-08T13:46:46Z Your estate plan isn't a document you create once and forget. It's a living blueprint that should evolve alongside your life. As you experience major milestones and changes, your estate plan needs to reflect your current circumstances and wishes. Hence, here are five critical moments when you should revisit and update your plan:

When your family structure changes

Major life events in your family often call for updates. Marriage introduces a spouse who may need coverage. Divorce means taking an ex-spouse off your documents. The birth or adoption of a child requires adding new beneficiaries. These personal shifts directly affect who should receive your assets and who can make decisions for you.

When your financial situation shifts

Your financial situation can also change dramatically over time. When you acquire significant new assets like property, a business or substantial investments, your estate plan must account for them. These shifts affect how you distribute your estate and may create new tax considerations.

When you relocate to another state

Meanwhile, moving to a different state introduces new legal complexities. Each state has unique estate planning laws that govern wills, trusts and inheritance. Pennsylvania's requirements may differ from your new home state. Thus, you need to ensure your documents remain valid and effective under your current state's laws.

When your health situation evolves

Additionally, changes in your health also require updates to your advanced medical directives. You may develop new preferences about your care or life-sustaining treatment. Your estate plan should reflect these current wishes to guide your loved ones during difficult times. 

When you’re selling your business

In other matters, your business sales also carry complex tax and planning implications. Hence, you should review your estate plan before finalizing any sale, ensuring you maximize benefits and minimize potential complications.

Keeping your affairs current and in order

An updated estate plan gives you peace of mind. Regular reviews ensure your documents match your life today. Consider consulting with an estate planning professional who can guide you through these important life updates and help you navigate Pennsylvania's specific requirements.]]> On Behalf of Law Offices of Jeffrey S. Evans <![CDATA[What legal steps protect minor children’s inheritance in PA?]]> https://www.jevanslaw.net/?p=47930 2026-02-05T15:16:41Z 2026-02-05T15:16:41Z When you have minor children, estate planning does more than transfer property. It sets clear rules for who manages assets and how your children receive them. Pennsylvania law offers several tools that help you protect an inheritance until a child reaches adulthood.

Choosing a guardian for property

Pennsylvania allows you to name a guardian to manage property left to a minor. This role focuses on handling money or assets, not day‑to‑day care. Without this step, a court may select someone for you, which can delay access to funds and add costs. Naming a guardian gives structure and keeps control in trusted hands.

Using trusts to control timing and use of funds

A trust lets you decide when and how your child receives inherited assets. Instead of a lump sum at age 18, you can set ages or milestones for distributions. A trustee manages the trust and follows your written instructions. This approach helps protect funds from misuse and supports long‑term needs like education or housing.

Custodial accounts under Pennsylvania law

Pennsylvania permits custodial accounts under the Uniform Transfers to Minors Act. These accounts hold assets for a child while an adult custodian manages them. The child gains control at a set age, usually 21. Custodial accounts work well for smaller inheritances or simple plans.

Planning with beneficiary designations

Life insurance policies and retirement accounts pass by beneficiary designation, not by a will. You can name a trust or custodial account as the beneficiary for a minor. This step prevents a court‑appointed guardian from managing those funds. It also keeps your overall plan consistent. Protecting a child’s inheritance works well when these tools align. Clear documents reduce delays, court involvement, and confusion for family members. A thoughtful plan gives your child financial support at the right time, with safeguards that fit your goals.]]> On Behalf of Law Offices of Jeffrey S. Evans <![CDATA[How does Pennsylvania law address home warranty disputes?]]> https://www.jevanslaw.net/?p=47925 2026-01-22T15:25:38Z 2026-01-22T15:25:38Z Buying a home often includes a warranty meant to cover certain repairs after closing, but disagreements can arise when something breaks. These disputes often center on what the warranty actually covers and how the company handles a claim. Understanding how Pennsylvania law treats these conflicts helps you better assess your position.

What a home warranty usually covers

A home warranty is a service contract rather than insurance, and it only covers the systems and appliances listed in the agreement, such as heating, plumbing, or electrical components. Coverage depends on the specific terms, exclusions, service fees, and limits stated in the contract. Many disputes begin when a company denies a claim based on exclusions like pre‑existing conditions or lack of maintenance.

Common reasons for home warranty disputes

Disputes often arise from claim denials, delays, or disagreements over repair methods and costs. You may believe the issue qualifies for coverage, while the warranty company points to contract language that limits its responsibility. Conflicts can also involve the quality of repairs or the contractor chosen to perform the work.

How Pennsylvania law applies to warranty disagreements

Pennsylvania generally treats home warranty disputes as contract matters, meaning the written agreement controls how claims should be handled. State law expects both sides to follow the contract honestly and not engage in deceptive conduct, even though contract duties usually define the outcome. If a company misrepresents coverage or relies on misleading practices, consumer protection laws may come into play.

Steps often used to resolve disputes

Many home warranty contracts require you to follow internal appeals or alternative dispute resolution steps before going to court. These provisions may include mediation or arbitration and are often enforceable when clearly disclosed in the agreement. If the dispute proceeds to court, judges typically review the contract terms, claim history, and communications between the parties. Knowing how Pennsylvania law views home warranty disputes helps you set realistic expectations early. The contract establishes the rules, but state law discourages unfair or deceptive conduct. Careful review of the agreement and clear documentation can make these disputes easier to evaluate.]]> On Behalf of Law Offices of Jeffrey S. Evans <![CDATA[Pennsylvania divorce: Marital vs. nonmarital property]]> https://www.jevanslaw.net/?p=47920 2026-01-19T01:44:30Z 2026-01-14T08:19:33Z How is marital property divided in Pennsylvania? Pennsylvania courts follow the equitable distribution model to divide a couple’s accumulated assets and debts. Under this principle, the court will seek to allocate you and your spouse’s marital assets fairly. To help determine this, the court will consider several key factors, including:
  • The length of your marriage
  • Each of your ages, health and education
  • Each of your homemaking contributions
  • Each of your economic circumstances
  • Each of your incomes
  • Your child custody order
Additionally, if one of you contributed to the other’s education or training, this factor will also be part of your marital property determination.

What will happen to our nonmarital property?

Since the court only divides marital property, any nonmarital property owned by each party will not be subject to division, with some exceptions. Four common examples of nonmarital property include:
  • Assets owned before marriage
  • Inheritance
  • Gifts
  • Any property excluded on a prenuptial agreement
However, if one of you spent your nonmarital funds to improve a marital asset (e.g., family business), they will become commingled assets and turn into marital assets.

Take it one step at a time

While you and your spouse begin to untie the knot and prepare to settle the terms of your divorce, you must both remember to breathe and walk at each other’s pace. Only by doing so will you be able to think things through with fairness and efficiency.]]>