A review of the year in family law 2007-2008: Federalization and nationalization continue

Family Law Quarterly

Volumn 42, Issue 4, 2009, Pages 713-755

  Elrod, Linda D ^a,b   Spector, Robert G ^c  

^a Department of Law ^*

^b Children and Family Law Center   (United States)

^c UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA   (United States)

Author keywords

[No Author keywords available]

Indexed keywords

EID: 67549105260     PISSN: 0014729X     EISSN: None     Source Type: Journal    
DOI: None     Document Type: Review

References (382)

1. Kennedy v. DuPont Savings and Investment Plan, 2009 WL 160440 (U. S. 2009).
2. Pub. L. 110-351.
3. In re Boler, Bankr. L. Rep. P 81, 096 (M. D. Ala. 2008).
4. In re Carter-Bland, 382 B. R. 743 (Bkrtcy. S. D. Ohio 2008).
5. Trustees of Operating Engineers Local #965 Health Benefit Plan v. Westfall, 34 Fam. L. Rep. 1032 (Bank. CD. Ill. 2007).
6. Fed. Reg. 37997 (2008).
7. Proctor v. Comm'r, T. C. 2813-06, 129 T. C. 12 (2007).
8. Perkins v. Comm'r, T. C. M. 2008-41, 6521-06 (2008).
9. Nihiser v. Comm'r, 19315-04, T. C. M. 2008-135 (2008).
10. Atwood v. Fort Peck Tribal Court Assiniboine, 513 F.3d 943 (9th Cir. 2008).
11. In re Adoption of C. D., 751 N. W.2d 236 (N. D. 2008) (finding a child's eligibility for membership in federally recognized tribe does not mean that he or she is an "Indian" child. The child's parent must also be a current tribal member).
12. In re Alejandro A., 74 Cal. Rptr. 3d 44 (Ct. App. 2008).
13. Cherino v. Cherino, 176 P.3d 1184 (N. M. Ct. App. 2007).
14. Langdeau v. Langdeau, 751 N. W.2d 722 (S. D. 2008).
15. See In re Alice M., 74 Cal. Rptr. 3d 863 (Ct. App. 2008) ; In re T. A., 883 N. E.2d 639 (Ill. App. Ct. 2008).
16. In re Cheyanne F., 79 Cal. Rptr. 3d 189 (Ct. App. 2008) (reviewing errors and omissions in ICWA notice under harmless error standard). See also In re M. B., 176 P.3d 977 (Kan. Ct. App. 2008) (even though failure to comply with ICWA, evidence was sufficient to terminate father's parental rights).
17. In re J. S., 177 P.3d 590 (Okla. Civ. App. 2008). See also In re Interest of Walter W., 744 N. W. 2d 55 (Neb. 2008) ; In re A. A., 176 P.3d 237 (Kan. Ct. App. 2008) (rejecting an ICWA-based constitutional equal-protection challenge to parental-rights-termination law).
18. In re N. N. E., 752 N. E.2d 1 (Iowa 2008).
19. Steven H. v. Ariz. Dep't of Econ. Sec., 190 P.3d 180 (Ariz. 2008).
20. Viteri v. Pflucker, 550 F. Supp. 2d 829 (N. D. Ill. 2008).
21. Mozes v. Mozes, 239 F.3d 1067 (9th Cir. 2001).
22. Robert v. Tesson, 507 F.3d 981 (6th Cir. 2007). See also Van de Sande v. Van de Sande, 2008 WL 239150 (N. D. Ill. Jan. 29, 2008) (unpublished) (finding that the children's habitual residence did not shift from the United States to Belgium, even though they lived there for three years, because the father had promised the family would move back to the United States after he finished his schooling) ; In re Mikovic v. Mikovic, 541 F. Supp. 2d 1264 (M. D. Fla. 2007) (finding no shared intent to move to Wales when father was deported for overstaying work visa; court should look at how the child's presence in the foreign country fits within the larger picture of the history of this couple and the child).
23. Sorenson v. Sorenson, 563 F. Supp. 2d 961 (D. Minn. 2008).
24. Clarke v. Clarke, 2008 WL 2217608 (E. D. Pa. May 27, 2008) (unpublished) (children ordered returned to Australia).
25. In re B. del C. S. B., 525 F. Supp. 2d 1182 (CD. Cal. 2007).
26. McClary v. McClary, 2007 WL 3023563 (M. D. Tenn. Oct. 12, 2007) (unpublished).
27. In re Marriage of Witherspoon, 66 Cal. Rptr. 3d 586 (Ct. App. 2008) (when children had been removed by civil authorities from their mother in Germany, court erred in awarding her temporary custody pending children's return to Germany).
28. Lieberman v. Tabachnik, 2008 WL 1744353 (D. Colo. Apr. 10, 2008) (unpublished).
29. Pielage v. McConnell, 516 F.3d 1282 (11th Cir. 2008).
30. Altamiranda Vale v. Avila, 538 F.3d 518 (7th Cir. 2008) (noting mother failed to show how the "bizarre anti-American ruminations of the President of Venezuela are relevant").
31. Leites v. Mendiburu, 2008 WL 114954 (M. D. Ha. Jan. 9, 2008) (unpublished).
32. Simcox v. Simcox, 511 F.3d 594 (6th Cir. 2008).
33. Simcox v. Simcox, 2008 WL 2924094 (N. D. Ohio July 24, 2008). See also De Giuseppe v. De Giuseppe, 2008 WL 1743079 (E. D. Mich. Apr. 11, 2008) (unpublished) (denying return to Canada because the court was certain the mother would abuse her children before a court in Canada could address the issue). For a case finding undertakings to be sufficient to alleviate concerns, see Kufner v. Kufner, 519 F.3d 33 (1st Cir. 2008).
34. Baran v. Beaty, 526 F.3d 1340 (11th Cir. 2008).
35. In re A. V. P. G., 251 S. W.3d 117 (Tex. Ct. App. 2008).
36. Muhlenkamp v. Blizzard, 521 F. Supp. 2d 1140 (E. D. Wash. 2007) (finding that child was two to three levels above grade and well-liked by peers at day care and had strong support group; the German order was not entitled to full faith and credit because the mother was not notified of the proceeding).
37. Duarte v. Bardales, 526 F.3d 563 (9th Cir. 2008).
38. Lopez v. Alcala, 547 F. Supp. 2d 1255 (M. D. Fla. 2008).
39. Diallo v. Bekemeyer, 2007 WL 4593502 (E. D. Mo. Dec. 28, 2007) (unpublished).
40. Carrascosa v. McGuire, 520 F.3d 249 (3d Cir. 2008).
41. Maxwell v. Maxwell, 2008 WL 4129509 (W. D. N. C. Sept. 2, 2008).
42. Barzilay v. Barzilay, 536 F.3d 844 (8th Cir. 2008).
43. In re J. J. L. P., 256 S. W.3d 363 (Tex. Ct. App. 2008).
44. McCann v. Doe, 660 S. E.2d 500 (S. C. 2008).
45. In re Adoption of N. J. G., 891 N. E.2d 60 (Ind. Ct. App. 2008).
46. Helen G. V. Mark J. H., 175 P.3d 914 (N. M. 2007) (allowing adoption over biological father's objection).
47. In re Pedro Jason William M., 847 N. Y. S.2d 17 (App. Div. 2007).
48. In re Adoption of K. C. J., 184 P.3d 1239 (Utah Ct. App. 2008).
49. In re Vanessa Ann G. L., 856 N. Y. S. 2d 657 (App. Div. 2008).
50. In re Adoption of G. L. V., 190 P.3d 245 (Kan. 2008). See also In re Adoption of D. D. H., 184 P.3d 987 (Kan. Ct. App. 2008).
51. In re Adoption of M. A., 930 A.2d 1088 (Me. 2007).
52. Finstuen v. Crutcher, 496 F.3d 1139 (10th Cir. 2007). See also Schott v. Schott, 744 N. W.2d 85 (Iowa 2008) (finding trial court erred in sua sponte setting aside the adoption of same-sex partner's children born during the couple's relationship since they were final and not subject to collateral attack).
53. In re Adoption of L. M. R., 884 N. E.2d 931 (Ind. App. 2008). See also Antonio P. v. Ariz. Dep't of Econ. Sec., 187 P.3d 1115 (Ariz. Ct. App. 2008) (placing child with aunt and uncle with whom child had extended relationship over grandparents).
54. G. S. v. T. B., 985 So. 2d 978 (Fla. 2008).
55. In re Web, 980 So. 2d 123 (La. Ct. App. 2008) (noting adoption would be appropriate if there were no natural parent, the natural parent was indifferent to child's well-being or visits sporadic). See also C. R. H. v. B. F., 169 P.3d 1286 (Or. Ct. App. 2007) (denying stepfather's petition to adopt because although father was incarcerated, he had not abandoned children).
56. In re Accounting by Fleet Bank, 884 N. E.2d 1040 (N. Y. 2008).
57. In re Adoption of D. C., 887 N. E.2d 950 (Ind. Ct. App. 2008).
58. In re Adoption of R. S., 231 S. W.3d 826 (Mo. Ct. App. 2007).
59. Edwards v. Edwards, 744 N. W.2d 243 (Neb. Ct. App. 2008) (upholding agreement where a wife had partial legal representation, had time to consider the agreement, and was not coerced).
60. Francavilla v. Francavilla, 969 So. 2d 522 (Fla. Dist. Ct. App. 2007).
61. Blige v. Blige, 656 S. E.2d 822 (Ga. 2008).
62. In re Estate of Martin, 938 A.2d 812 (Me. 2008) (noting that the fact a spouse did not perform all of his contractual obligations to change beneficiary of an insurance policy prior to death does not require that the agreement be set aside).
63. Williams v. Williams, 246 S. W.3d 207 (Tex. Ct. App. 2007).
64. In re Marriage of Rosenbaum-Golden v. Golden, 884 N. E.2d 1272 (Ill. App. Ct. 2008).
65. Eyster v. Pechenik, 887 N. E.2d 272 (Mass. App. Ct. 2008). See also McIntyre v. McIntyre, 654 S. E.2d 798 (N. C. Ct. App. 2008) (finding a prenuptial agreement which provided that the parties could buy and sell property without the other's consent is not to be interpreted as a waiver of equitable distribution of property upon divorce).
66. Homra v. Nelson, 2008 WL 684542 (Tenn. Ct. App. Mar. 14, 2008).
67. Ahmed v. Ahmed, 261 S. W.3d 190 (Tex. Ct. App. 2008). See also Zawahiri v. Alwattar, 2008 WL 2698679 (Ohio Ct. App. Jul. 10, 2008) (unpublished) (finding that presenting a mahr on the day of the wedding made it unenforceable).
68. Stawski v., 843 N. Y. S.2d 544 (App. Div. 2007).
69. In re Marriage of Tabassum and Younis, 881 N. E.2d 396 (Ill. App. Ct. 2007).
70. Bruker v. Marcovitz, [2007] S. C. R. 54 (Can.).
71. In re Marriage of Takusagawa, 166 P.3d 440 (Kan. Ct. App. 2007).
72. Elwell v. Elwell, 947 A.2d 1136 (D. C. 2008).
73. LoCasto v. LoCasto, 518 F. Supp. 2d 1025 (N. D. Ill. 2007).
74. P. B. v. L. B., 855 N. Y. S.2d 836 (Sup. Ct. 2008).
75. Loscher v. Hudson, 182 P.3d 25 (Kan. Ct. App. 2008).
76. In re Marriage of Green, 169 P.3d 202 (Colo. Ct. App. 2007).
77. Pizzo v. Goor, 857 N. Y. S.2d 526 (App. Div. 2008).
78. Ashby v. Ashby, 191 P.3d 35 (Utah Ct. App. 2008).
79. Devaney v. L'Esperance, 949 A.2d 743 (N. J. 2008).
80. Connell v. Diehl, 938 A.2d 143 (N. J. Super. Ct. App. Div. 2008).
81. In re Estate of Quarg, 938 A.2d 193 (N. J. Super. App. Div. 2008).
82. Radcliffe v. Radcliffe, 951 A.2d 575 (Conn. App. Ct. 2008). But see Spivey v. Topper, 876 N. E.2d 781 (Ind. Ct. App. 2007) (finding trial court erred in awarding the incapacitated wife alimony for only six months when there was no evidence that she could be employed after that time).
83. Wold v. Wold, 744 N. W.2d 541 (N. D. 2008) ; Lawson v. Lawson, 940 A.2d 444 (Pa. Super. Ct. 2007).
84. In re Marriage of Bratcher, 890 N. E.2d 1232 (Ill. App. Ct. 2008).
85. Brown v. Brown, 665 S. E.2d 174 (S. C. Ct. App. 2008).
86. Ulliman v. Ulliman, 2008 WL 2942213 (Ohio Ct. App. Aug. 1, 2008).
87. In re Kenick, 934 A.2d 573 (N. H. 2007).
88. Waldren v. Waldren, 171 P.3d 1214 (Ariz. 2007). See also In re Holscher, 180 P.3d 199 (Wash. Ct. App. 2008) (parties can agree that alimony will not be modified).
89. Eckert v. Eckert, 941 A.2d 301 (Conn. 2008).
90. Grachek v. Grachek. 750 N. W.2d 328 (Minn. Ct. App. 2008).
91. Jensen v. Jensen, 173 P.3d 223 (Utah Ct. App. 2007).
92. In re Nassar, 843 A.2d 740 (N. H. 2008).
93. Palmer v. Palmer, 170 P.3d 676 (Ariz. Ct. App. 2007) ; Cortese v. Cortese, 176 P.3d 1064 (Mont. 2008).
94. Janes v. Janes, 242 S. W.3d 744 (Mo. Ct. App. 2007).
95. Graev v. Graev, 848 N. Y. S.2d 627 (App. Div. 2007).
96. See American Bar Association Model Act Governing Assisted Reproductive Technology, 42 Fam. L. Q. 171 (2008).
97. Ferguson v. McKiernan, 940 A.2d 1236 (Pa. 2007).
98. In re K. M. H., 169 P.3d 1025 (Kan. 2007).
99. Ewing v. Ewing, 2007 WL 4563458 (Ohio App. Dec. 20, 2007).
100. Finley v. Astrue, 270 S. W.3d 849 (Ark. 2007).
101. J. F. v. D. B., 879 N. E. 2d 740 (Ohio 2007).
102. Maxwell, Schuman and Co. v. Edwards, 663 S. E.2d 329 (N. C. Ct. App. 2008).
103. Sheresky, Aronson and Mayefesky v. Whitmore, 34 Fam. L. Rep. (BNA) 1031 (N. Y. Sup. Ct. 2007).
104. Chames v. DeMayo, 972 So. 2d 850 (Fla. 2008).
105. Iriarte v. Iriarte, 856 N. Y. S.2d 839 (Sup. Ct. 2008).
106. Iannuzzelli v. Lovett. 981 So. 2d 557 (Fla. Dist. Ct. App. 2008).
107. ABA Standing Comm. on Ethics and Prof'l Responsibility, Formal Op. 07-447, 33 Fam. L. Rep. (BNA) 1538 (2007).
108. In re Hoffmeyer, 656 S. E.2d 376 (S. C. 2008).
109. Butler v. Romanova, 953 A.2d 748 (Me. 2008).
110. Florida Bar Prof'l Ethics Comm., Op. 07-1, 34 Fam. L. Rep. (BNA) 1058 (2007).
111. In re Johnson, 877 N. E.2d 249 (Mass. 2007).
112. Heinze v. Bauer, 178 P.3d 597 (Idaho 2008).
113. Ginter ex rel. Ballard v. Belcher, Prendergast and Laporte, 536 F.3d 439 (5th Cir. 2008).
114. Hageman v. Sw. Gen. Health CtrŽ 893 N. E.2d 153 (Ohio 2008).
115. In re Texas Dep't of Fam. and Protective Servs., 255 S. W.3d 613 (Tex. 2008).
116. In re M. F., 74 Cal. Rptr. 3d 383 (Ct. App. 2008).
117. In re C. A. O., 192 P.3d 508 (Colo. Ct. App. 2008).
118. In re A. T, 744 N. W.2d 657 (Iowa Ct. App. 2007).
119. Timothy T. v. Shireen T., 741 N. W.2d 452 (Neb. Ct. App. 2007).
120. D. O. v. S. M., 981 So. 2d 11 (Fla. Dist. Ct. App. 2007) reh'g denied.
121. In re A. P., 752 N. W.2d 34 (Iowa App. 2008) ; In re Walter W., 744 N. W.2d 55 (Neb. 2008) (mother suffered from depression, had intermittent explosive disorder and narcissistic traits, and would not be able to provide permanency).
122. In re P. C., 80 Cal. Rptr. 3d 595 (Ct. App. 2008).
123. In re B. and J., 756 N. W.2d 234 (Mich. Ct. App. 2008).
124. In re K. R. G., 248 S. W.3d 651 (Mo. Ct. App. 2008).
125. In re E. F. B. D., 245 S. W.3d 316 (Mo. Ct. App. 2008).
126. Rosen v. Celebrezze, 883 N. E.2d 420 (Ohio 2008).
127. Rosen v. Rosen, 664 S. E.2d 743 (W. Va. 2008). See also Landeau v. Landeau, 751 N. W.2d 722 (S. D. 2008) (South Dakota has no jurisdiction to decide custody when the child's home state is the Native-American reservation where she had lived for six months prior to the commencement of the divorce; however, the state trial court did have jurisdiction to grant the divorce) ; Stewart v. Vulliet, 888 N. E.2d 761 (Ind. 2008) (Indiana does not have jurisdiction to decide custody when, after the case was filed in Indiana, the child was born in Washington and continued to reside there).
128. Michael McC. v. Manuela A., 848 N. Y. S.2d 147 (App. Div. 2007).
129. Stewart v. Vulliett, 888 N. E.2d 761 (Ind. 2008).
130. Malissa C. v. Matthew Wayne H., 193 P.3d 569 (N. M. Ct. App. 2008).
131. Garcia v. Gutierrez, 192 P.3d. 275 (N. M. Ct. App. 2008).
132. Greely v. Greely, 943 A.2d 841 (N. J. 2008).
133. Hart v. Kozik, 242 S. W.3d. 102 (Tex. App. 2007).
134. State ex rel. J. W., 975 So. 2d 841 (La. Ct. App. 2008).
135. Lighty v. Lighty, 879 N. E.2d 637 (Ind. Ct. App. 2008).
136. Schultz v. Schultz, 187 P.3d 1234 (Idaho 2008).
137. Adoption of Yvette, 881 N. E.2d 1159 (Mass. Ct. App. 2008).
138. See Prickett v. Prickett, 167 P.3d 661 (Wyo. 2007) (finding that court did not need to enforce the consented to modification of visitation by a Nebraska court) ; Kelso v. Decker, 262 S. W.3d 307 (Tenn. Ct. App. 2008) (finding that because father still lived in Ohio, it retained continuing jurisdiction, not the new home state) ; White v. Harrison-White, 760 N. W.2d 691 (Mich. Ct. App. 2008) (even though mother and child moved to Canada, father remained in the state and child retains a significant connection).
139. Billhime v. Billhime, 952 A.2d 1174 (Pa. Super. Ct. 2008).
140. In re Z. T. S., 2008 WL 371184 (Tenn. Ct. App. Feb. 12, 2008) (unpublished). See also In re B. P., 184 P.3d 334 (Mont. 2008) (finding that Montana lost jurisdiction when the children were with their father in California and the mother was in Minnesota).
141. In re J. H., 2008 WL 3867850 (Tex. Ct. App. Aug. 21, 2008) (unpublished).
142. Miller v. Miller, 2008 WL 3877145 (Vt. Aug. 22, 2008).
143. In re Sophia G. L., 890 N. E.2d 470 (Ill. 2008).
144. In re S. K. B., 2008 WL 2553388 (Tex. Ct. App. June 26, 2008) (unpublished).
145. A. K. v. N. B., 2008 WL 2154098 (Ala. Civ. App. May 23, 2008).
146. See Robert E. Emery and Kimberly C. Emery, Should Courts Make Child-rearing Decisions? Married Parents as a Paradigm for Parents Who Live Apart, 43 WAKE FOREST L. REV. 365 (2008).
147. See FLA. STAT. § 61.13 (Oct. 2008).
148. See Snowden v. Snowden, 985 So. 2d 584 (Fla. Dist. Ct. App. 2008) (finding that a trial court was not required to enforce a couple's agreement that custody of their children would shift to the father from the mother if she drank in their presence) ; Eickbush v. Eickbush, 171 P.3d 509 (Wyo. 2007) (noting that trial court had to weigh the best interests of the child against enforcing the parents' agreement).
149. Fawzy v. Fawzy, 948 A.2d 709 (N. J. Super. Ct. App. Div. 2008).
150. Weeks v. Weeks, 989 So. 2d 408 (Miss. App. 2008).
151. Volodarsky v. Tarachanskaya, 916 A.2d 991 (Md. 2007) ; Puddicombe v. Dreka, 167 P.3d 73 (Alaska 2007) ; Wessman v. Wessman, 747 N. W.2d 85 (N. D. 2008).
152. Alexander v. Alexander, 985 So. 2d 490 (Ala. Civ. App. 2007) (noting that even though the father had better lodging (house v. trailer), there was no abuse of discretion in awarding mother residential custody) ; Sumrall v. Sumrall, 970 So. 2d 254 (Miss. App. 2007) (noting mother was more stable, had been primary custodian, had a job, and child had close relationship with half sibling).
153. A. O. V. v. J. R. V., 2007 WL 581871 (Va. Ct. App. Feb. 27, 2007) (restrictions limited children's exposure to father's homosexual lifestyle).
154. In re Marriage of Magnuson, 170 P.3d 65 (Wash. Ct. App. 2007).
155. Melikishvili v. Grigolava, 857 N. Y. S. 2d 621 (App. Div. 2008).
156. In re Georgakilas, 956 A.2d 320 (N. H. 2008).
157. Kelley v. Kelley, 175 P.3d 400 (Okla. 2007).
158. Maska v. Maska. 742 N. W.2d 492 (Neb. 2007).
159. Barile v. Barile, 179 P.3d 944 (Alaska 2008). See also Cook v. Cook, 970 So. 2d 960 (La. 2007) (finding a mother's relationship with a same-sex partner constituted a change of circumstances).
160. McLane v. Paul, 189 P.3d 1039 (Alaska 2008).
161. Ex Parte Cleghorn, 993 So. 2d 462 (Ala. 2008).
162. Harrison v. Harrison, 2008 WL 943915 (Ark. App. Apr. 9, 2008).
163. C. J. M. v. C. L., 987 So. 2d 317 (La. Ct. App. 2008).
164. Richardson v. Richardson, 974 So. 2d 761 (La. Ct. App. 2007).
165. Baxendale v. Raich, 878 N. E.2d 1252 (Ind. 2008).
166. Arthur v. Arthur, 987 So. 2d 212 (Fla. Dist. Ct. App. 2008).
167. Thompson v. Thompson, 176 P.3d 722 (Ariz. Ct. App. 2008) ; Bowers v. Vanderneulen- Bowers, 750 N. W.2d 597 (Mich. Ct. App. 2008) (finding radial, not road miles, should be used to measure distance).
168. Hogrelius v. Martin, 950 A.2d 345 (Pa. Super. Ct. 2008).
169. Waliagha v. Kaiser, 989 So. 2d 660 (Fla. Dist. Ct. App. 2008).
170. In re Marriage of Saheb v. Khazal, 880 N. E.2d 537 (Ill. App. Ct. 2007).
171. State v. Froland, 936 A.2d 947 (N. J. 2007).
172. State v. Young, 174 P.3d 460 (Mont. 2007).
173. Khalifa v. Shannon, 945 A.2d 1244 (Md. 2007) (award of $900, 000 against grandmother and $1, 100, 000 in punitives against mother not excessive).
174. N. J. Div. of Youth and Fam. Servs. v. T. M., 945 A.2d 39 (N. J. Super. Ct. App. Div. 2008).
175. Teresa J. v. Tanya H, 857 N. Y. S.2d 844 (App. Div. 2008).
176. Schaffer v. Schaffer, 884 N. E.2d 423 (Ind. Ct. App. 2008). See also Hoeing v. Williams, 880 N. E.2d 1217 (Ind. Ct. App. 2008) (reversing visitation granted to grandmother who objected to mother's decision to raise child as Jehovah's Witness).
177. Compare In re Guardianship of Estelle, 875 N. E.2d 515 (Mass. Ct. App. 2007) (unless unfit, father was entitled to custody, not co-guardianship) with Langston v. Langston, 266 S. W.3d 716 (Ark. 2007) (denying parent's petition to terminate grandparents' guardianship).
178. Doe v. Doe, 172 P.3d 1067 (Haw. 2007).
179. J. L. W. v. E. O. J., 992 So. 2d 727 (Ala. Civ. App. 2008).
180. Flynn v. Henkel, 880 N. E.2d 166 (Ill. 2007) (holding that paternal grandmother failed to meet her burden of proof in overcoming statutory presumption that mother's decision denying visitation was not harmful to child's interest).
181. Sheehan v. Flower, 170 P.3d 288 (Ariz. Ct. App. 2007).
182. In re Marriage of Huss, 888 N. E.2d 1238 (Ind. 2008).
183. In re Parentage of M. F., 170 P.3d 601 (Wash. Ct. App. 2007).
184. In re Parentage of J. A. B., 191 P.3d 71 (Wash. Ct. App. 2008).
185. Mason v. Dwinnell, 660 S. E.2d 58 (N. C. Ct. App. 2008).
186. Heatzig v. MacLean, 664 S. E.2d 347 (N. C. Ct. App. 2008). See also Estroff v. Chatterjee, 660 S. E.2d 73 (N. C. Ct. App. 2008) ; In re Senturi, 652 S. E.2d 490 (W. Va. 2008) (while psychological parents may seek custody or visitation, these intervenors did not qualify where they did not reside with the child or interact on daily basis).
187. Janice M. v. Margaret K., 948 A.2d 73 (Md. 2008) ; see also Jones v. Barlow, 154 P.3d 808 (Utah 2007).
188. Stadter v. Siperko, 661 S. E.2d 494 (Va. Ct. App. 2008) (rinding former lesbian cohabitant failed to prove by clear and convincing evidence that denial of visitation would harm child, who was born during parties' relationship as a result of mother's artificial insemination).
189. Pickelsimer v. Mullins, 2008 WL 820947 (Ky. Ct. App. Mar. 28, 2008) (unpublished), rev. granted.
190. In re Smith, 262 S. W.3d 463 (Tex. Ct. App. 2008).
191. Frisch v. Henrichs, 736 N. W.2d 85 (Wis. 2008).
192. Mintz v. Zoerning, 198 P.3d 861 (N. M. Ct. App. 2008).
193. Jensen v. Jensen, 750 N. W.2d 335 (Neb. 2008).
194. In re Rife, 878 N. E.2d 775 (Ill. App. Ct. 2007).
195. In re Vandervoort, 185 P.3d 289 (Kan. Ct. App. 2008). See also Laffin v. Laffin, 2008 WL 3983880 (Mich. Ct. App. Aug. 28, 2008) (nixing an offset agreement).
196. Dubay v. Wells, 506 F.3d 422 (6th Cir. 2007).
197. L. M. v. R. L. R., 888 N. E.2d 934 (Mass. 2008).
198. Campbell v. Davison, 2008 WL 3582689 (Ala. Civ. App. Aug. 15, 2008).
199. State ex rel. SRS v. Bohrer, 189 P.3d 1157 (Kan. 2008).
200. D. H. R. ex rel. Duckworth v. Kamp, 949 A.2d 43 (Md. Ct. Spec. App. 2008).
201. Hubbard Cty. Health and Human Servs. v. Zacher, 742 N. W.2d 223 (Minn. Ct. App. 2007). See also In re Marriage of Leoni, 180 P.3d 1060 (Kan. Ct. App. 2007).
202. Springer v. Damrich, 993 So. 2d 481 (Ala. Civ. App. 2008). See also In re Marriage of Matthews, 193 P.3d 466 (Kan. Ct. App. 2008).
203. Bulgarelli v. Bulgarelli, 934 A.2d 107 (Pa. Super. Ct. 2007).
204. Santana v. Santana, 859 N. Y. S. 2d 219 (App. Div. 2008).
205. Strahan v. Strahan, 953 A.2d 1219 (N. J. Super Ct. App. Div. 2008).
206. Harris v. Carter, 189 P. 3d 484 (Idaho Ct. App. 2008) ; Keck v. Jordan, 180 P.3d 889 (Wyo. 2008) (allowing a father to redact his new wife's income from their joint tax return to determine his income for child support).
207. Kestner v. Clark, 182 P.3d 1117 (Alaska 2008).
208. Nace v. Nace, 754 N. W.2d 820 (S. D. 2008).
209. Mariana D. v. Frank D., 858 N. Y. S.2d 864 (Fam. Ct. 2008) (education loans and grants parent received did not constitute income).
210. Gentile v. Carneiro, 946 A.2d 871 (Conn. App. Ct. 2008).
211. In re Ormiston, 188 P.3d 32 (Kan. Ct. App. 2008).
212. Bellinger v. Bellinger, 847 N. Y. S.2d 783 (App. Div. 2007) ; see also Ola v. Ola, 985 So. 2d 786 (La. Ct. App. 2008).
213. Blevins v. Blevins, 249 S. W.3d 871 (Mo. Ct. App. 2008).
214. Bator v. Osborne, 983 So. 2d 1198 (Fla. Dist. Ct. App. 2008).
215. Sawicki v. Haxby, 186 P.3d 546 (Alaska 2008).
216. Kestner v. Clark, 182 P.3d 1117 (Alaska 2008).
217. In re Marriage of Bardzik, 83 Cal. Rptr. 3d 72 (Ct. App. 2008).
218. Ibrahim v. Aziz, 953 A.2d 508 (N. J. Super. Ct. App. Div. 2008).
219. Kauth v. Bartlett, 746 N. W.2d 747 (S. D. 2007).
220. In re Seay, 746 N. W.2d 833 (Iowa 2008).
221. Silver v. Pinksey, 200 WL 902715 (Pa. Super. Ct. Apr. 4, 2008).
222. Young v. Young, 891 N. E.2d 1045 (Ind. 2008).
223. Smoske v. Sicher, 2007 WL 3052208 (Ohio Ct. App. Oct. 19, 2007).
224. Devaney v. Miller, 662 S. E.2d 672 (N. C. Ct. App. 2008).
225. Richardson v. Kohlin, 175 P.3d 43 (Alaska 2008).
226. Billingsley-Travis v. Travis, 2008 WL 2220681 (Tenn. Ct. App. May 28, 2008).
227. Adkins v. Adkins, 656 S. E.2d 47 (W. Va. 2007).
228. Clark v. Clark, 887 N. E.2d 1021 (Ind. Ct. App. 2008).
229. Edwards v. Edwards, 75 Cal. Rptr. 3d 458 (Ct. App. 2008).
230. Carson v. Carson, 875 N. E.2d 484 (Ind. Ct. App. 2007).
231. Waddington v. Cox. 247 S. W.3d 567 (Mo. Ct. App. 2007).
232. Sutherland v. Sutherland, 944 A.2d 395 (Conn. App. Ct. 2008).
233. Cubel v. Cubel, 876 N. E.2d 1117 (Ind. 2007).
234. State ex rel. DES v. Lee, 275 P.3d 85 (Ariz. Ct. App. 2008).
235. Draper v. Burke, 881 N. E.2d 122 (Mass. 2008), cert denied.
236. Basileh v. Alghusain, 890 N. E.2d 779 (Ind. Ct. App. 2008) (FFCCSOA allows tranfer of jurisdiction over support when all parties leave the state).
237. DeGroot v. DeGroot, 939 A.2d 664 (D. C. 2008).
238. Trissler v. Trissler, 987 So. 2d 209 (Fla. Dist Ct. App. 2008).
239. Wills v. Wills, 745 N. W.2d 924 (Neb. Ct. App. 2007). See also Spencer v. Spencer, 882 N. E.2d 886 (N. Y. 2008) (New York court had no authority to order a Connecticut resident to pay support to his college student son after his Connecticut support obligation expired).
240. Mazza v. Hollis, 947 A.2d 1177 (D. C. 2008).
241. Arlington v. Dep't of Human. Res., 935 A.2d (Md. 2007).
242. Dep't of Rev. v. Nesbitt, 975 So. 2d 549 (Fla. Dist Ct. App. 2008).
243. Keith v. Purvis, 982 So. 2d 1033 (Miss. Ct. App. 2008). See also In re Parentage of Fairbanks, 176 P.3d 611 (Wash. Ct. App. 2008).
244. Wilhelms v. Sexton, 2008 WL 725561 (Ark. Ct. App. Mar. 19, 2008).
245. In re Cole, 939 A.2d 750 (N. H. 2007).
246. Billings v. Odle, 891 N. E.2d 106 (Ind. Ct. App. 2008).
247. In re Marriage of Vilander and Ormsbee, 186 P.3d 806 (Kan. Ct. App. 2008). See also Abies v. Gladden, 664 S. E.2d 442 (S. C. 2008).
248. State v. Watkins, 988 So. 2d 176 (La. 2008).
249. In re Marriage of Gerkin, 74 Cal. Rptr. 3d 188 (Ct. App. 2008).
250. United States v. Fields, 500 F.3d 1327 (11th Cir. 2007).
251. United States v. Edelkind, 525 F.3d 388 (5th Cir. 2008).
252. State v. Stamm, 664 S. E.2d 161 (W. Va. Ct. App. 2008).
253. In re Marrige of Ramirez, 81 Cal. Rptr. 3d 180 (Ct. App. 2008).
254. In re Marriage of Kowalewski, 182 P.3d 959 (Wash. 2008).
255. Marshall v. Marshall, 988 So. 2d 644 (Fla. Dist. Ct. App. 2008).
256. Davis v. Davis, 948 A.2d 1203 (D. C. 2008).
257. Greely v. Greely, 943 A.2d 841 (N. J. 2008).
258. Chambers v. Ormiston, 935 A.2d 956 (R. I. 2007).
259. Wolff v. Wolff, 966 So. 2d 1202 (La. Ct. App. 2007).
260. Lister v. Lister, 981 So. 2d 340 (Miss. Ct. App. 2008).
261. Aleem v. Aleem, 947 A.2d 489 (Md. 2008).
262. MacKenzie v. Barthol, 173 P.3d 980 (Wash. Ct. App. 2007).
263. R. M. v. Dr. R., 855 N. Y. S.2d 865 (Sup. Ct. 2008).
264. In re Stapleford, 931 A.2d 1199 (N. H. 2007).
265. Hughes v. Hughes, 247 S. W.3d 59 (Mo. Ct. App. 2008).
266. Taper v. Taper, 939 A.2d 969 (Pa. Super. Ct. 2007).
267. Schwartz ex rel. Estate of Schwartz v. Schwartz, 183 P.3d 552 (Colo. 2008).
268. Wechsler v. Wechsler, 847 N. Y. S.2d 26 (App. Div. 2007).
269. Burke v. Burke, 662 S. E.2d 622 (Va. Ct. App. 2008).
270. Copeland v. Copeland, 966 So. 2d 1040 (La. 2007).
271. Johanson v. Eighth Judicial Dist. Court ex rel. County of Clark, 173 P.3d 718 (Nev. 2007).
272. Caplan v. Donovan, 879 N. E.2d 117 (Mass. 2008).
273. C. V. v. T. B., 853 N. Y. S.2d 510 (N. Y. Fam. Ct. 2008).
274. Custer v. Cochran, 933 A.2d 1050 (Pa. Super. Ct. 2007).
275. Benjamin v. McKinnon, 887 N. E.2d 14 (Ill App. Ct. 2008).
276. Corwell v. Corwell, 179 P.3d 821 (Utah Ct. App. 2008).
277. L'Heureux v. Michaud, 938 A.2d 801 (Me.2007).
278. Lukacs v. Luton, 982 So. 2d 1217 (Fla. Dist. Ct. App. 2008).
279. Crop v. Crop, 188 P.3d 364 (Or. Ct. App. 2008).
280. Sparks v. Deveny, 189 P.3d 1268 (Or. Ct. App. 2008).
281. Weissenburger v. Iowa District Court, 740 N. W.2d 431 (Iowa 2007).
282. Moore v. Moore, 657 S. E.2d 743 (S. C. 2008).
283. Id.
284. State v. Deal, 740 N. W.2d 755 (Minn. 2007,).
285. In re E. F. G., 942 A.2d 166 (N. J. Super. Ct. A. D. App. Div. 2008) (a trial court erred in denying a name change to a domestic violence victim who was unwilling to comply with notice publication rule).
286. State v. Price, 886 N. E.2d 852 (Ohio 2008).
287. In re Marriage Cases, 183 P.3d 384 (Cal. 2008).
288. Conaway v. Deane, 932 A.2d 571 (Md. 2007).
289. Chambers v. Ormiston, 935 A.2d 956 (R. I. 2007).
290. O'Darling v. O'Darling, 188 P.3d 137 (Okla. 2008).
291. Martinez v. County of Monroe, 850 N. Y. S.2d 740 (App. Div. 2008).
292. Beth R. v. Donna M., 853 N. Y. S.2d 501 (Sup. Ct. 2008).
293. Strong v. State Bd. of Equalization, 66 Cal. Rptr. 3d 657 (Ct. App. 2007).
294. In re Domestic Partnership of Ellis, 76 Cal. Rptr. 3d 401 (Ct. App. 2008).
295. Nat'l Pride at Work, Inc. v. Governor of Michigan, 748 N. W.2d 524 (Mich. 2008).
296. Bronson v. Swensen, 500 F.3d 1099 (10th Cir. 2007).
297. U. S. v. Dedman, 527 F.3d 577 (6th Cir. 2008).
298. In re J. M. N., 2008 WL 2415490 (Tenn. Ct. App. June 13, 2008).
299. McPeek v. McCardle, 888 N. E.2d 171 (Ind. 2008).
300. In re A. C. S., 171 P.3d 1148 (Alaska 2007).
301. Jenkins v. Austin, 255 S. W.3d 24 (Mo. Ct. App. 2008).
302. Hunter v. Haunert, 270 S. W.3d 339 (Ark. Ct. App. 2007).
303. In re M. J. T., 189 P.3d 745 (Okla. Ct. App. 2008).
304. In re H. M. C., 876 N. E.2d 805 (Ind. Ct. App. 2007).
305. In re M. W. R., 2007 WL 4099505 (Ohio Ct. App. Nov. 19, 2007).
306. In re J. L., 72 Cal. Rptr. 3d 27 (Ct. App. 2008).
307. In re Swatek-Briggs, 746 N. W.2d 279 (Iowa Ct. App. 2008).
308. In re Paternity of T. J. D. C., 750 N. W.2d 957 (Wis. Ct. App. 2008).
309. Pearson v. Pearson, 182 P.3d 353 (Utah 2008).
310. J. N. R. v. O'Reilly, 264 S. W.3d 587 (Ky. 2008).
311. Fowler v. State Dep't of Rev., 168 P.3d 870 (Alaska 2007).
312. Payne v. France, 373 Ark. 175 (2008).
313. Mr. T. v. Ms. T., 662 S. E.2d 413 (S. C. Ct. App. 2008).
314. In re Paternity of M. M., 889 N. E.2d 846 (Ind. Ct. App. 2008).
315. Gerhardt v. C. K., 751 N. W.2d 702 (N. D. 2008).
316. Burden v. Burden, 945 A.2d 656 (Md. Ct. Spec. App. 2008).
317. In re Gendron, 950 A.2d 151 (N. H. 2008) ; In re Paternity of H. H., 879 N. E.2d 1175 (Ind. Ct. App. 2008). See also Hinshaw (Lenarz) v. Hinshaw, 237 S. W.3d 170 (Ky. 2007).
318. Estes v. Titus, 751 N. W.2d 493 (Mich. 2008).
319. In re Parentage of G. E. M., 890 N. E.2d 944 (Ill. App. Ct. 2008).
320. Lebanon County Children's Youth Servs. v. Wagner, 948 A.2d 871 (Pa. Super. Ct. 2008).
321. Dantzig v. Biron, 2008 WL 187532 (Ohio Ct. App. Jan. 18, 2008).
322. Baker v. Baker, 753 N. W.2d 644 (Minn. 2008).
323. Blay v. Blay, 857 N. Y. S.2d 784 (App. Div. 2008).
324. O'Connell v. O'Connell, 889 N. E.2d 1 (Ind. Ct. App. 2008).
325. Shafer v. Shafer, 741 N. W.2d 173 (Neb. Ct. App. 2007).
326. Finan v. Finan, 949 A.2d 468 (Conn. 2008). See also In re Marriage of Fennelly, 737 N. W.2d 97 (Iowa 2007) (finding dissipation where husband took unexplained cash advances on his credit cards at end of marriage).
327. Gershman v. Gershman, 943 A.2d 1091 (Conn. 2008).
328. Judge v. Judge, 851 N. Y. S.2d 639 (App. Div. 2008).
329. Higgins v. Higgins, 857 N. Y. S.2d 171 (App. Div. 2008).
330. Nornes v. Nornes, 884 N. E.2d 886 (Ind. Ct. App. 2008).
331. Ahern v. Ahern, 938 A.2d 35 (Me. 2008).
332. Von Hohn v. Von Hohn, 260 S. W.3d 631 (Tex. Ct. App. 2008).
333. Keyt v. Keyt, 244 S. W.3d 321 (Tenn. 2007).
334. Hedges v. Pitcher, 942 A.2d 1217 (Me. 2008).
335. In re Marriage of Schmedeman, 190 P.3d 788 (Colo. Ct. App. 2008).
336. Sternesky v. Salcie-Sternesky, 933 A.2d 956 (N. J. Super. Ct., A. D. 2007).
337. Dinges v. Dinges, 743 N. W.2d 662 (Neb. Ct. App. 2008).
338. Janusz v. Gilliam, 947 A.2d 560 (Md. 2008).
339. See also Hallingby v. Hallingby, 541 F. Supp. 2d 591 (S. D. N. Y. 2008). See also Kennedy v. DuPont Sav. and Inv. Plan, 2009 WL 160440 (U. S. 2009).
340. Metro. Life Ins. Co. v. Flusty, 545 F. Supp. 2d 624 (E. D. Mich. 2008). See also Metro. Life Ins. Co. v. Flusty, 43 Employee Benefits Cas. 1609 (E. D. Mich 2008) (stating that wife's waiver of any interest in her husband's ERISA-covered life insurance policy in a divorce decree means she cannot receive the proceeds following his death).
341. In re Sauers, 2008 WL 1991488 (Pa. Super. Ct. 2008) (opinion withdrawn). The United States Supreme Court had already decided this issue in Egelhoff v. Egelhoff, 532 U. S. 141 (2001).
342. Brown ex rel. Estate of Sanger v. Wright, 511 F. Supp. 2d 850 (E. D. Mich 2007).
343. Metro. Life Ins. Co. v. Cline, 2007 WL 1549603 (E. D. Wash. May 24, 2007) (unpublished; text in Westlaw).
344. Couch v. Reinhold, 43 Employee Benefits Cas. 2865 (W. D. Mich. 2008) (unpublished; text in Westlaw).
345. Robinson v. New Orleans Employers ILA AFL-CIO Pension Welfare Vacation and Holiday Funds, 269 Fed. Appx. 516 (5th Cir. 2008) (unpublished; text in Westlaw).
346. Murr v. Case New Holland, Inc., 2008 WL 2626999 (D. Neb. June 26, 2008) (unpublished; text in Westlaw).
347. Taliaferro v. Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co., 265 Fed. App'x 240 (5th Cir. 2008) (unpublished; text in Westlaw).
348. In re Marriage of Guy, 169 P.3d 1218 (Okla. Ct. App. 2007).
349. Allen v. Allen, 941 A.2d 510 (Md. Ct. App. 2008).
350. In re Sonne, 80 Cal. Rptr. 3d 453 (Ct. App. 2008).
351. Forrester v. Forrester, 953 A.2d 175 (Del. 2008) (opinion superseded 196 F.3d 215).
352. Diaz v. Diaz, 970 So. 2d 429 (Fla. Dist. Ct. App. 2007).
353. Patrick v. A. K. Steele Corp., 44 Employee Benefits Cas. 1076 (S. D. Ohio 2008).
354. Blaine v. Blaine, 744 N. W.2d 444 (Neb. 2008).
355. McKeon v. Guardian Ins. and Annuity Co., 43 Employee Benefits Cas. 1233 (D. Conn. 2007).
356. Mattingly v. Hoge, 42 Employee Benefits Cas. 2211 (6th Cir. 2008).
357. Geiger v. Foley, Hoag LLP Retirement Plan, 521 F.3d 60 (1st Cir. 2008).
358. Wade v. Hampton Roads Shipping Ass'n-Int'l Longshoremen's Ass'n Pension Plan, 42 Employee Benefits Cas. 2787 (E. D. Va. 2007).
359. In re Partnership of Rhone and Butcher, 166 P.3d 1230 (Wash. Ct. App. 2007).
360. Bancoskey v. Bancoskey, 167 P.3d 705 (Ariz. Ct. App. 2007).
361. Crayk v. Glover, 176 P.3d 645 (Wyo. 2008).
362. In re Marriage of Cooper, 73 Cal. Rptr. 3d 71 (Ct. App. 2008).
363. In re Costa, 937 A.2d 288 (N. H. 2007).
364. In re Rockwell, 2007 WL 2411694 (Wash. Ct. App. Aug. 27, 2007) (unpublished; text in Westlaw).
365. Mesholam v. Mesholam, 892 N. E.2d 846 (N. Y. 2008).
366. Heifer v. Heifer, 656 S. E.2d 70 (W. Va. 2007).
367. Franklin v. Franklin, 988 So. 2d 125 (Fla. Dist. Ct. App. 2008).
368. In re Mattel, 944 A.2d 575 (N. H. 2008).
369. Finan v. Finan, 949 A.2d 468 (Conn. 2008).
370. Gershman v. Gershman, 943 A.2d 1091 (Conn. 2008).
371. Estes v. Titus, 751 N. W.2d 493 (Mich. 2008).
372. Charron v. Amaral, 889 N. E.2d 946 (Mass. 2008).
373. In re Marriage of Amich and Adiutori, 192 P.3d 422 (Colo. Ct. App. 2007).
374. Ellis v. Estate of Ellis, 169 P.3d 441 (Utah 2007).
375. Khalifa v. Shannon, 945 A.2d 1244 (Md. 2008).
376. Bailey v. Bailey, 2008 WL 324156 (E. D. Mich. Feb. 6, 2008) (unpublished; text in Westlaw).
377. Russin v. Wesson, 949 A.2d 1019 (Vt. 2008).
378. State Farm Fire and Cas. Co. v. Harbert, 741 N. W.2d 228 (S. D. 2007).
379. Angelo v. Angelo, 175 P.3d 1096 (Wash. Ct. App. 2008).
380. Peterka v. Dennis, 744 N. W.2d 28 (Minn. Ct. App. 2008).
381. Ortega v. Sacramento County Dep't of Health and Human Servs., 74 Cal. Rptr. 3d 390 (Ct. App. 2008).
382. Zellmer v. Zellmer, 188 P.3d 497 (Wash. 2008).