Family law in Pennsylvania just got a few important updates that could affect parents, couples, and families across the state. These new changes touch on some of the most common issues we see in family court – including how custody is decided, how property is divided during a divorce, and how support is calculated. From new custody considerations under 23 Pa.C.S.A. § 5328, to a law that now allows pets to be a part of equitable distribution, Pennsylvania is taking steps to better reflect modern family life. These updates may sound technical, but they have very real effects on everyday families. Whether you’re going through a divorce, dealing with custody issues, or adjusting support arrangements, understanding these changes is an important part of knowing your rights and options. Below, we’ll break down each update in plain language and explain what it could mean for you. Beginning on August 29, 2025, Pennsylvania underwent a slight change in custody factors under 23 Pa.C.S.A. § 5328. The list of factors judges consider when deciding what’s in a child’s best interest has been shortened from sixteen factors to only twelve. The goal is to make the process easier to understand and less repetitive, while…
Read MoreAt Musi, Mattson, Daubenberger & Clark, LLP, we take great pride in the results our attorneys achieve for our clients. A recent case handled by Richard C. Daubenberger, Esquire, is a perfect example of that dedication in action. Mr. Daubenberger recently secured a highly favorable sentencing outcome for a Delaware County professional facing serious insurance-related charges. The case involved a licensed doctor accused of submitting improper billing claims to multiple insurance companies over a period of several years totaling well over half a million dollars in alleged theft. According to investigators, the billing practices allegedly resulted in overpayments tied to insurance codes used for therapeutic services. The original charges included fraudulent insurance claims and theft by deception, both felonies under Pennsylvania law. Authorities claimed that certain services provided at our client’s office were billed under procedure codes typically reserved for other covered treatments, resulting in insurance reimbursement that should not have been paid. These services primarily involved massage therapy provided to our client’s patients. The allegations spanned a period of several years and involved multiple insurers. Detectives even conducted undercover visits to the client’s office as part of the investigation. As is often the case in complex insurance matters, the…
Read MoreDisagreements and disputes with a contractor on a home repair project can quickly spiral out of control. Such disputes may lead to serious issues that can impact or even halt the sale or marketing of your property. It is important to act quickly when potential issues with contractors arise, as they will already be familiar with the legal tools at their disposal. When contractors are faced with disputes over payments for work, labor, and materials used in a project, one of the most common tools they will use is a mechanics’ lien. This is a statutory tool designed for debt collection by the contractor. The lien is a claim against the property itself rather than the owner of the property stalling potential sales as the property would be burdened by a third-party claim. Because these liens offer contractors strong protection to ensure payment for their work, the process for filing a mechanics’ lien is strict. Such strictness is to ensure that unlawful claims can be terminated before the homeowner is harmed. Sections 1502 and 1503 (49 P.S. §1502 and §1503) set forth the requirements for time of filing, venue, service, proof of service, and other requirements a lienor must fulfill…
Read MoreAttorney Lindsay J. Killian of Musi, Mattson, Daubenberger & Clark LLC recently brought a complex, high-stakes criminal matter to a successful conclusion for her client. The case, which spanned more than two years, involved theft in the millions of dollars and was deeply intertwined with issues stemming from illicit drug abuse and the disease of addiction. The client, a mother of two, had struggled with substance abuse that contributed to the circumstances leading to her charges. Through hard work and perseverance by Lindsay and her client, Lindsay was able to present a compelling narrative to the court—one that not only addressed the legal aspects of the case but also humanized her client and underscored her rehabilitation. As a result of her efforts, the court imposed a probationary sentence, sparing the client from incarceration and allowing her to remain with her children. This case was not just about financial crime; it was about a life derailed by addiction and the difficult road to redemption. The client, who had battled a long-term substance abuse disorder, became entangled in a situation that led to significant criminal exposure. Despite the seriousness of the charges, Lindsay saw beyond the allegations. She saw a person struggling…
Read MoreMMD&C is proud to announce that Michael Mattson, in recognition of his ability to serve current and future clients, has joined the firm as a named partner, utilizing his wealth of experience and a client-centered approach that aligns perfectly with the firm’s values. Mr. Mattson’s practice focuses on estate planning, estate administration, estate and Orphans’ Court litigation, as well as providing legal support to small business owners and handling general civil litigation matters. The firm will now be rebranded to Musi, Mattson, Daubenberger & Clark in light of this achievement. In the area of estate planning, Mr. Mattson works directly with individuals and families to develop comprehensive, customized plans tailored to their specific needs and goals. His services include the creation of Wills, Living Trusts, Irrevocable Trusts, Special and Supplemental Needs Trusts, Powers of Attorney, Advanced Directives (commonly referred to as “Living Wills”), and Healthcare Powers of Attorney. He also helps ensure that a client’s asset titling and beneficiary designations are consistent with their estate plans, reducing the likelihood of future legal complications and ensuring that their intentions are clearly documented and legally enforceable. Mr. Mattson also provides compassionate and knowledgeable counsel in the area of estate administration. He works…
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