Family Law Attorney Handles Complex Issues for West Chester Clients

Experienced Pennsylvania lawyer takes on matrimonial cases and parenting disputes

Drawing on more than 30 years of family law experience, Lynn represents Chester County clients as they go through major life transitions. Whether you’re seeking legal counsel for a divorce, paternity matter, custody conflict or prenuptial agreement, Linda MacElree Esquire, LLC in Exton offers the effective, personalized advice that you deserve. Dealing with domestic legal concerns can be tough, but Lynn can identify and execute creative solutions to your family law challenge.

Knowledgeable advocate represents spouses in divorce proceedings

Lynn delivers comprehensive legal support for Pennsylvania spouses who are going through a divorce and can answer your questions on concerns regarding matters such as:

• Timing of filing — Most Pennsylvania couples opt for no-fault divorces based on mutual consent or a separation of at least one year after the relationship has broken down. You can rely on our firm to explain your options carefully and to prepare the necessary documents accurately.
• Child custody and visitation — Lynn helps clients pursue consensus on child custody rights and parenting time schedules so that parents can agree on legal authority, residence and visitation. When an appropriate agreement cannot be reached, we thoroughly review the relevant facts and the child’s needs to make the strongest possible argument before a judge.
• Alimony — Someone who relied on their spouse’s income might be entitled to alimony payments. Lynn can outline the formula used for spousal support and alimony pendente lite while the legal marriage is still intact. Courts frequently look at the duration of the marriage, each party’s earning ability and the couple’s standard of living when determining post-divorce alimony terms. These payments are usually meant to last only as long as it takes for a recipient to support themselves, but permanent alimony can be awarded if there is a compelling reason why someone cannot work, such as disability or a child care responsibility.

Though no one looks forward to a divorce, Lynn uses her family law knowledge and experience to help secure a result that provides a strong foundation for the future.

Accomplished firm advises on Pennsylvania paternity matters

Whether you’re seeking to establish legal paternity in order to gain the right to visit your child or to obtain financial support from your child’s father, you must satisfy Pennsylvania’s legal requirements. A father who is not married to an infant’s mother is not automatically listed on the child’s birth certificate. If both adults agree on parentage, they can execute a Voluntary Acknowledgement of Paternity. Should a dispute exist over fatherhood, either party can file a Petition to Determine Paternity. These matters usually hinge on the result of genetic testing.

Thorough legal counsel drafts prenuptial and postnuptial agreements

In Pennsylvania, premarital agreements are typically treated in the same manner as other types of contracts, so it’s important to work with an experienced lawyer to be sure that the document protects your interests. Along with safeguarding property you’ve brought into the marriage and establishing alimony terms, a sound prenuptial agreement can help avoid lengthy and costly disputes over the marital home, business shares, investments and other assets if a spouse files for divorce at some point.

Dedicated attorney assists parents in child support actions

Many Pennsylvania child support determinations are based on a formula that considers each parent’s income and tax obligations, along with expenses such as health insurance premiums and child care costs. Lynn assists clients whose co-parent might not be providing accurate and up-to-date information and handles arrangements that go beyond the formula factors. You can also rely on our firm for strong support in modification and enforcement actions stemming from existing orders.

Contact an established Chester County family lawyer to schedule an appointment

Linda MacElree Esquire, LLC in Exton advises Pennsylvania clients on various family law concerns. Please call 610-344-7600 or contact us online for a meeting to discuss your situation. Consultations are charged at Lynn’s then-hourly rate.