Familias multiespecie: ¿Una nueva realidad?
Pets and Divorce
Pennsylvania law, as currently written, does not have any special provisions for pets when their owners get divorced. Even though many individuals consider pets as children, Pennsylvania courts do not. ...more
Much to the despair of animal lovers all throughout Pennsylvania, during the divorce and equitable distribution process, pets that were acquired during the marriage are considered personal property and are treated no...more
It’s no secret that, for many, pets are viewed as members of the family. When you consider the day-to-day relationship between pet and owner, this reality makes complete and total sense. To be sure, just as human family...more
The province of British Columbia (B.C.) and the State of New York are leading the way in the field of pet custody and could be just the nudge needed to signal others to catch up. In the United States, pets are generally...more
From time to time, we have written regarding pet custody, though there is very little case law on the issue. Historically, pets were treated as chattel (property) and courts did not enter custody and visitation orders for...more
Sometimes divorce means saying goodbye to more than just your spouse. In the State of Washington, dogs, cats, and other household animals are considered personal property. Accordingly, when it comes to pets, as part of the...more
I grew up in a family where pets were always present. My dad was known to just randomly show up at home with a new puppy. At one point in my childhood, I think there were two dogs, two cats, two hamsters and a few fish living...more
Under the current law, a pet is divided the same as your coffee table. The dog or cat is awarded to one spouse; the value of the pet is the value the pet would sell for at a yard sale....more
A new law in California which goes into effect on January 1, 2019 gives Courts the right to determine custody and care of a pet both pending a divorce and as part of a final determination. ...more
There is no question that pets can be – and often are – beloved members of the family. Much as we love them, it probably doesn’t surprise anyone to know that in many jurisdictions pets are considered personal property in a...more