Uniform Marriage and Divorce Act

The Uniform Marriage and Divorce Act (UMDA) is an extensive uniform law which provides standards governing marriage, divorce, property distribution, alimony, child support, and custody. Arizona, Colorado, Illinois, Kentucky, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana and Washington have adopted it. The major provisions eliminate fault divorces, eliminate traditional defenses to divorce, provide for equitable distribution of property in non-community property states, provides for distributing community property, provide for alimony only in specific circumstances, and base child support and custody on certain factors.

Domestic Violence and Custody Issues

Domestic violence is conduct perpetrated by a spouse, family member, or any other person residing in the household. The State does not get involved in domestic violence issues unless the abuser has violated a criminal statute such as assault or battery. Violent events in the household constitute domestic violence if the victim is a family member or lives with the abuser.

Minors and Medical Treatment - Parental Consent

Generally, parental consent is required before a minor can receive medical treatment. Most states define a minor as a person under the age of 18. State laws make an exception to the parental consent requirement in emergency situations. Minors can receive emergency medical treatment without parental consent.

Statutory and Other Types of Marriage

A marriage by definition is a union between a man and a woman. Every state has different requirements with respect to becoming legally and statutorily married.

Types of Child Custody

There are many types of child custody arrangements. The law uses certain terms to describe these arrangements. It is important for parents to understand these terms because they define the rights of the parents.