Probate Courts in Connecticut have exclusive jurisdiction to handle stepparent adoptions. We know that many stepparents have a parent like relationship with their spouse’s child. They spend lots of time together and do all the things those parents and children enjoy. The child loves and trusts the stepparent and even calls them “mom” or “dad.”…
Many people can represent themselves in Probate Court. After all, the surroundings of a Probate Court in Connecticut are more comfortable and relaxed than other Connecticut courts. Probate hearings are usually held in conference rooms at the local Town Hall. There is no audience, no jury, the judge does not wear a black…
Guardianship of children includes the authority to make major decisions affecting the child’s education, welfare and medical treatment. In Connecticut, birth parents (whether or not married) are automatically the joint guardians of the child. Therefore, both parents have equal rights and responsibilities with respect to the child unless a court decides otherwise. The process…
Three courts decide matters of temporary custody in Connecticut: 1. Juvenile Court. The Department of Children and Families (DCF) file Orders of Temporary Custody (OTC) in Juvenile Court. When DCF files an OTC, they request temporary custody of child and then place the child in foster care or with a relative. For DCF to assume…
Will contests seem to be increasing. Recently I have seen scenarios involving spouses, children, grandchildren or others that were not sufficiently provided for or left out entirely. When there are questions about the legitimacy of the will then will contests ensue. Here are some of grounds to challenge a will in Connecticut: 1. Lack of…
The appointment of a Conservator in Connecticut must follow a detailed procedure. A recent case decided by the Connecticut Appellate Court clarifies the appointment and selection process of a third party (non-family member) Conservator by a Connecticut Probate Court. In Falvey v. Zurolo, a daughter applied to the Probate Court to be her mother’s Conservator….