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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 24, 2023
Adopting When Single
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Last Modified on Nov 24, 2023

Being a single parent is not an uncommon phenomenon. But what about when you choose to become a single parent through adoption? This is a route to parenthood that many individuals consider, but may feel overwhelming to some at first. However, it is completely possible…

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Nov 18, 2025
Adoptive Parents & Divorce
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Last Modified on Nov 18, 2025

It is no secret that the divorce process can take its toll on children. They are faced with changes to their family unit, routines, and surrounding environments. However, this process may be even more challenging for adopted children and their parents. Losing the feeling of…

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Nov 09, 2023
Are Same-Sex Divorces Different?
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Last Modified on Nov 09, 2023

Are Same-Sex Divorces Different? Legally speaking, gay and lesbian couples have the same rights as straight couples, so there should be nothing “different” about same-sex divorces. Nevertheless, there are some special considerations in a same-sex divorce, including establishing parental rights, determining the length of your…

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Nov 24, 2023
What if I Don’t Believe in Divorce?
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Last Modified on Nov 24, 2023

We encounter many clients who want to end their marriages but don’t believe in divorce. We also see our fair share of people who don’t believe in divorce but have been served with divorce papers, anyways. If you want to end your marriage but do…

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Jul 01, 2025
The Best Interests of Children Defined
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Last Modified on Jul 01, 2025

After deciding to file for a divorce, there are a lot of things that you will have to attend to. If you have children, it will be of the utmost importance to have a custody agreement and parenting plan that attends to their needs. In…

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Jul 18, 2025
How Are Unique Assets Valued During Property Division?
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Last Modified on Jul 18, 2025

How Are Unique Assets Valued During Property Division? How Does Property Division Work in California? California is what is called a community property state. This means that any property (or debts) acquired during a marriage (marital property) is owned jointly by the couple. As a…

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Nov 09, 2023
Dispelling Common Myths About Surrogacy
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Last Modified on Nov 09, 2023

Dispelling Common Myths About Surrogacy Are You Considering Surrogacy? If you and your partner are considering surrogacy, you probably have a lot of questions. Surrogacy is a wonderful thing that has helped countless couples grow their families. However, a simple google search turns up an…

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Feb 13, 2026
Is Alternative Dispute Resolution Right For Me?
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Last Modified on Feb 13, 2026

If you decide to get a divorce, there are more options than just litigation for reaching resolutions. Alternative dispute resolution refers to the tactics utilized to reach a resolution when couples go through something like a divorce. When thinking of alternative dispute resolution and family…

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Sep 02, 2025
Is My California Prenuptial Agreement Unenforceable?
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Last Modified on Sep 02, 2025

Many couples use prenuptial agreements to protect each individual’s property rights in the event of a divorce. If you signed a prenuptial agreement and are now divorcing your spouse, you may be wondering if the contract is valid and enforceable. There are many circumstances in…

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Aug 20, 2025
Will or Trust: Which Do I Need in California?
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Last Modified on Aug 20, 2025

Estate planning allows you to decide, among other things, what will happen to your assets once you pass away. Most people are familiar with the “last will and testament,” a document that gives you a chance to specify who will get what. A living trust…

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