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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

Jan 08, 2026
California Alimony Laws 2026 – All You Need to Know
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Last Modified on Jan 08, 2026

Understanding California alimony laws can be confusing, especially if you are going through a legal separation or divorce. Alimony, otherwise known as spousal support, can be implemented to help less-earning spouses stay financially stable and become accustomed to life after marriage. Whether you may be…

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Jan 26, 2026
How To File for Divorce in California When Both Parties Agree? 2026
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Last Modified on Jan 26, 2026

Filing for divorce can be a huge undertaking, but if both spouses are willing to agree on the terms of the divorce, it can be a much more comfortable experience. Understanding how to file for divorce in California when both parties agree is the first…

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Jan 08, 2026
Summary Dissolution Versus Divorce in California: What’s The Difference? 2026
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Last Modified on Jan 08, 2026

In California, couples have two choices when deciding to end their marriage: divorce or summary dissolution. You might wonder whether a summary dissolution versus a divorce in California is better. Although the two have the same goal, the processes, requirements, and implications are different. When…

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Jan 08, 2026
Recognizing Early Signs of Divorce in California
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Last Modified on Jan 08, 2026

Marriage is an evolving and complex relationship. One or both spouses may notice signs that their relationship may be headed toward divorce. Recognizing early signs of divorce in California can help partners decide whether to try and mend the relationship or prepare for a separation.…

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Feb 24, 2026
What Is the Family Law Act in California? 2026
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Last Modified on Feb 24, 2026

Many people who are engaged in family law cases may wonder, “What is the Family Law Act in California?” Officially enacted in 1970, the Family Law Act of California transformed how family law cases were handled across the state. It was the birth of “no-fault”…

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Jan 08, 2026
California Divorce Rate 2026 – Latest Statistics
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Last Modified on Jan 08, 2026

When a couple gets married, they certainly don’t plan to get divorced and are hoping it will never come to that. Unfortunately, though, the reality of life is that even the most hopeful of plans sometimes don’t work out. Some marriages will inevitably end in…

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Feb 24, 2026
2026 How to Get Full Custody of a Child as a Mother in California?
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Last Modified on Feb 24, 2026

Whether in the case of a divorce or otherwise, custody is a contentious issue. Mothers who love, care for, and want to ensure that their child is protected may often believe that full custody, or sole custody, for themselves is the way to make that…

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Jan 08, 2026
2026 What Is the Average Child Support Payment in California?
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Last Modified on Jan 08, 2026

Child support is an issue that can create resentment and tension, and it can be a challenging process for both sides involved. In an attempt to mitigate this, California has created guidelines that determine child support payments on the basis of a complex formula. If…

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Aug 19, 2025
How Long Does A Divorce Take in California?
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Last Modified on Aug 19, 2025

Making the choice to get a divorce takes a lot of courage and bravery. It’s not easy to come to terms with your marriage ending, and some couples may want to get through the process as quickly as possible. A California divorce attorney can help…

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Jan 08, 2026
2026 How Much Does a Divorce Cost in California?
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Last Modified on Jan 08, 2026

Getting divorced can be both an emotionally and financially intense process. Before you begin the divorce process, understanding the potential costs of your divorce can be an important step. The average cost for a California divorce is $17,500, but this number changes based on each…

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