Author Avatar

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

Aug 07, 2023
Common Challenges That Ruin Co-Parenting Relationships
  |     |  
Last Modified on Aug 07, 2023

When considering how many couples divorce each year, it’s not surprising how many parents are learning to co-parent from different households. Building a co-parenting relationship can be difficult for many divorced couples. While learning how to work cooperatively with someone you’ve divorced can be challenging,…

Read More
Apr 27, 2024
How Can I Prepare for Family Law Court?
  |     |  
Last Modified on Apr 27, 2024

Going to family law court can be a daunting experience for anyone. However, with the right preparation, it is possible to feel confident when entering a family law court. Creative Family Solutions, Cianci Law, PC can help by providing tips for navigating family law court.…

Read More
Feb 24, 2026
Is It Possible To Keep My Divorce Case Out of Court?
  |     |  
Last Modified on Feb 24, 2026

Going to court is often seen as a last resort in legal proceedings. This is especially true when it comes to divorce cases. Many couples believe that they must go to court to get a divorce, but this is not always the case. Opting for…

Read More
Nov 02, 2023
How Often Should You Update Your Estate Plan?
  |     |  
Last Modified on Nov 02, 2023

An estate plan may sound fancy and unnecessary, but nothing could be further from the truth. If you own a house or car or have money in a bank account, then you need a will. Contrary to popular belief, a will is just one piece…

Read More
Mar 02, 2026
What Happens if I Can’t Make My Child Support Payments?
  |     |  
Last Modified on Mar 02, 2026

When parents in separate households share custody of a minor child, the parent with primary physical custody of the child will receive monetary payments from the other parent in the form of child support. Child support funds are awarded to the primary custodial parent to…

Read More
Apr 27, 2024
Important Things To Know About California Divorce
  |     |  
Last Modified on Apr 27, 2024

Most individuals likely enter their marriages without the intent for divorce to take place. Ending your marriage with your spouse is a complex process that requires attention to detail, time management, and money. On top of that, each state has its own guidelines, language, and…

Read More
Jul 16, 2025
Social Media & Child Custody: What Can Be Used Against You in a Custody Battle?
  |     |  
Last Modified on Jul 16, 2025

In child custody cases, the court prioritizes the best interest of the child. The court considers a variety of factors in determining the child’s best interests, including but not limited to whether either party is unfit, each parent’s willingness to help foster the child’s relationship…

Read More
Nov 03, 2023
What Is an Advanced Healthcare Directive?
  |     |  
Last Modified on Nov 03, 2023

An advanced healthcare directive (AHCD) is a legal document that outlines your wishes concerning your medical care if you are unconscious or incapacitated because of an illness or accident. If you have drafted an advanced healthcare directive, your family members and medical staff are legally…

Read More
Nov 08, 2023
Do Grandparents Have Visitation Rights?
  |     |  
Last Modified on Nov 08, 2023

When parents file for a divorce, everyone knows that they will have to tackle custody issues. It is important for parents to have a sound understanding of their parenting plans and how they will approach custody. However, what about other family members, such as grandparents?…

Read More
Feb 26, 2025
Enforcing Child Support in California
  |     |  
Last Modified on Feb 26, 2025

What Happens When Child Support Is Not Paid? If you are the primary custodian of a child, you may rely on child support payments to cover bills and childcare-related expenses. When the other party fails to make these payments, you can take legal action to…

Read More

Recent Posts

Categories

Archives

Request a Consultation

Fields marked with an * are required

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.