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Melissa D. Cianci

Melissa D. Cianci is the managing partner of Cianci Law, PC, where she specializes in family law, adoption, and surrogacy. A Certified Family Law Specialist by the California Board of Legal Specialization, Melissa is admitted to practice in seven states, including California, Nevada, and New York. She holds a J.D. from the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law and an M.B.A. from Oklahoma State University. In addition to her legal practice, she serves as the Chief Administrative Officer for Adoption Choices, Inc. and is a Fellow of the Academy of Adoption and Assisted Reproduction Attorneys.

LATEST ARTICLES BY: Melissa D. Cianci

Nov 08, 2023
Survey Says Hiding Financial Information Can Spark a Divorce
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Last Modified on Nov 08, 2023

There are many reasons why a California couple might decide the time is right to move forward with a divorce. While personal issues and disputes are common as some people simply determine that they can no longer get along, financial concerns are also high on…

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Nov 28, 2023
What Couples Can and Cannot Do Under the California UPAA
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Last Modified on Nov 28, 2023

The Uniform Premarital Agreement has been in force in California since 1986. Although the UPAA is effective throughout most of the country, various states have inserted their own rules within certain sections. California has established guidelines that dictate the terms the agreement can and cannot include.…

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Nov 13, 2023
Changing a Child Support Order and Required Information
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Last Modified on Nov 13, 2023

When a child support order is made in California, parents should understand that it is based on circumstances. The situation will determine how much is paid at the time of the order. If the situation changes, so too can the amount that is paid and…

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Nov 13, 2023
Can I Use the Compromise of Arrears Program with Child Support?
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Last Modified on Nov 13, 2023

One of the most contentious issues that California parents will face as part of a divorce settlement is child support. This can continue after the case has been concluded as some noncustodial parents will have problems with delinquent payments and all the negatives that entail.…

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Nov 02, 2023
Should I Consider Alternatives to Child Guardianship?
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Last Modified on Nov 02, 2023

The State of California is vigilant about protecting children. In many cases, that requires a guardianship to ensure the child's best interests are adhered to. When a parent or the parents cannot care for the child appropriately, guardianship is an option. However, it is important…

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Apr 21, 2025
Can the State Help in Collecting Overdue Child Support Payments?
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Last Modified on Apr 21, 2025

When a California court decides that a parent should pay to support a child, it is done with the best interests of the child in mind. The amount ordered is what is deemed necessary for the child to survive and thrive. If the parent fails…

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Nov 03, 2023
Stop Believing These Prenup Myths
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Last Modified on Nov 03, 2023

There is a lot of misunderstanding and societal stigma surrounding prenuptial agreements. When getting ready to spend the rest of your life with someone, you focus on the specifics of wedding planning and romantic emotions. You may assume a prenuptial agreement is not necessary–or is…

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Jul 18, 2025
What Is Commingling with Property Division in California?
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Last Modified on Jul 18, 2025

When a California couple decides to divorce, property division is a common source for dispute. Often, it takes some time to determine which party owns what and has the right to retain what property at the end of a marriage. While many items belong to…

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Nov 13, 2023
How Child Support Is Impacted by Subsequent Spouse Income
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Last Modified on Nov 13, 2023

After a California couple has divorced and there is a child support agreement, there are often questions as to when it can be modified and what circumstances are necessary to do so. The supporting parent and the parent who has custody and receives support will…

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Nov 08, 2023
Experienced Legal Help Is Imperative with Surrogacy
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Last Modified on Nov 08, 2023

California individuals and couples who want to have a child, but are unable to will often think about their options to start a family. There are many ways for them to achieve their goals. One that is frequently used is to have a surrogate. Surrogacy…

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