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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 02, 2023
Competent Legal Assistance When Dealing with Guardianship
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Last Modified on Nov 02, 2023

Most people, including several experts, would agree that children need stability. Although stability includes having an established daily routine, in a broader sense it also means having a home that is consistent and that can provide them with the safe, loving, and nurturing environment they…

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Nov 08, 2023
Football-Related Head Injuries Lead to Custody Dispute
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Last Modified on Nov 08, 2023

When Californians think of divorce, they often think of legal issues that are hotly contested, such as property division, alimony, and child custody. While these issues are often resolved through negotiations before litigation occurs, a divorce settlement is not necessarily permanent. Oftentimes couples have to…

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Aug 21, 2025
How to Reduce Divorce-Related Stress
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Last Modified on Aug 21, 2025

It seems like nowadays no one is immune from divorce and other family law issues. Even those couples who at one time seemed inseparable can find themselves butting heads over the most mundane issues as their relationship unravels. Although some couples are able to work…

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Apr 01, 2025
What You Need to Know About Divorce Litigation
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Last Modified on Apr 01, 2025

Today, one sees an increasing push for alternatives to litigation in many types of cases, including California divorces. It is true that resolving disagreements through means such as mediation can yield many benefits for you such as decreased stress levels, shorter timelines, and fewer costs.…

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Nov 19, 2025
Property Division May Affect One’s Credit
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Last Modified on Nov 19, 2025

Oftentimes in divorce, parties find themselves most concerned about property division. This may include discussions about who will retain possession of the family home, vehicles, retirement accounts, and even items that carry sentimental value. The process of divvying up these assets can be tedious and…

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Nov 24, 2023
The Risks and Responsibilities of a Guardianship
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Last Modified on Nov 24, 2023

Families can take a variety of shapes. While some are strictly biological in nature, others are built through legal processes like adoption. Guardianship is another way for individuals to provide a child in need with a safe and stable home, but many Californians are unfamiliar…

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Nov 08, 2023
California Firm Helping Draft Surrogacy Agreements
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Last Modified on Nov 08, 2023

Despite living in the technological age, there are certain things that even the most cutting edge scientific approaches can't fully address. One of those issues is infertility. Many Californians suffer from infertility, and a significant number of those individuals find themselves worried about how to…

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Nov 08, 2023
Study Suggests Genetics May Play a Role in Divorce
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Last Modified on Nov 08, 2023

There are a variety of factors that can contribute to divorce. Money woes, infidelity, poor communication, and even family tragedy can throw marital relationships into a tailspin. One factor many may not consider, though, is one's genetic makeup. Sure, researchers have known for years that…

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Nov 02, 2023
Child Support and the Income Withholding Order
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Last Modified on Nov 02, 2023

Raising a child is extremely expensive. Even families with moderate incomes can face difficulty making ends meet, so when couples divorce and a custodial parent must suddenly burden all costs associated with raising a child, one's financial situation can become dire. Fortunately, the state of…

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Nov 02, 2023
3 Common Prenup Mistakes to Avoid
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Last Modified on Nov 02, 2023

Are you looking to sign a prenuptial agreement? If so, you are not alone. Many couples these days are looking to protect their financial interests in marriage. Talking about finances with your fiance may be challenging, but it is a beneficial endeavor if you ever…

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