Strategic.
Focused. We are one of the largest boutique divorce and family law practices in all of Montgomery, Bucks, Chester and Delaware counties with over 100 combined years of experience.
Bala Cynwyd Family Lawyers
Supportive Counsel For Families Facing Change
If you are facing a divorce, custody dispute, or other family conflict in Bala Cynwyd, you may feel uncertain about what comes next. You might be worried about your children, your home, and your financial future, all at the same time. In moments like this, focused legal guidance can help you regain a sense of control.
At Shemtob Draganosky Taylor Stein, PC, we concentrate our practice on family law. Our attorneys work with clients throughout Bala Cynwyd, the Main Line, and Montgomery County who need steady support during difficult transitions. We listen carefully to your story, explain your options in clear terms, and help you move forward in a way that aligns with your goals and values.
To schedule a time to speak with our Bala Cynwyd family lawyers, call (215) 544-3974.
Our Approach to Family Law Counsel
From the outset, we take time to understand what matters most to you. Some clients want to resolve issues as quietly as possible. Others are preparing for contested litigation in the Montgomery County Court of Common Pleas or nearby courts. We discuss your priorities, assess the legal landscape, and work with you to create a plan that reflects your needs.
Our attorneys use negotiation and alternative dispute resolution whenever that approach supports your objectives. Settling issues through discussions, mediation, or similar processes can often reduce conflict and uncertainty. At the same time, we are prepared to advocate for you in court when litigation becomes necessary. Our roots in large-firm practice, combined with a boutique structure, allow us to give your case both rigorous preparation and highly personal attention.
Leadership by Lori K. Shemtob, a Super Lawyer and Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, informs our work across the firm. These honors reflect years of dedication to family law and a strong presence in the courtroom. Clients benefit from that experience regardless of whether their case resolves through negotiations or proceeds to trial.
Divorce & Property Division Matters
Marital estates in and around Bala Cynwyd can include homes, retirement accounts, investment portfolios, and sometimes interests in closely held businesses or professional practices. Pennsylvania law on equitable distribution requires a careful look at what you and your spouse own, how it was acquired, and what each of you needs going forward. We help you understand which assets are likely to be considered marital, what documentation may be important, and how different settlement options might affect your long term financial stability.
We work with clients on divorces that involve complex property division. This may include coordinating information from accountants or other financial professionals, reviewing business records, and examining how property located in multiple jurisdictions fits into the overall picture. Our goal is to present your financial situation clearly, then work toward resolutions that are both practical and sustainable.
Common financial issues we help clients address include:
- Division of the marital home and any additional real estate
- Allocation of retirement accounts, pensions, and investment portfolios
- Treatment of business interests or professional practices within the marital estate
- Responsibility for debts such as credit cards, personal loans, or tax obligations
- Questions about spousal support or alimony and how it may fit into your overall agreement
Child Custody & Parenting Arrangements
In Pennsylvania, courts generally look to the best interests of the child when making decisions about custody. That standard can involve many different factors, including each parent’s involvement in daily life, the child’s needs, school considerations, and the ability of adults to cooperate. We help you understand how these factors may apply in your situation and what information may be most helpful in presenting your position.
Our attorneys assist with custody schedules, legal decision making authority, and parenting plans tailored to families who live and work along the Main Line and in Philadelphia. Commute times, school districts, and extracurricular commitments often play a role in shaping practical arrangements. We also handle more complex circumstances, such as cases involving relocation requests or third party custody rights for grandparents or other relatives who play a central role in a child’s life.
Some of the custody related questions we frequently discuss with clients include:
- How overnights, holidays, and vacations may be shared in a way that works for everyone
- What options exist if one parent needs to move or change a work schedule after an order is in place
- How schools, medical providers, and activities are chosen and who has authority over those decisions
- What steps to consider if a current arrangement is no longer working for the children
Guidance Tailored to Bala Cynwyd Families
Choosing a family law firm that knows your community can make a meaningful difference in how your case unfolds. We regularly represent clients whose matters proceed in the Montgomery County Court of Common Pleas, and we are familiar with the procedures and expectations that apply there. This familiarity helps us prepare you for what to expect and how to get ready for hearings, conferences, or settlement discussions.
For families in Bala Cynwyd and surrounding Main Line communities, daily life often involves demanding work schedules, school commitments, and activities spread across several towns. These realities influence the structure of custody arrangements and schedules, as well as decisions about support and housing. We take the time to understand the rhythm of your household so that legal agreements reflect how your family truly functions.
We also serve clients across Montgomery County, Bucks County, Chester County, Delaware County, and Philadelphia. Working with families across this region gives us insight into how different courts approach similar issues and how regional factors, such as commute patterns or school calendars, may affect your options. No matter where you are in the process, our focus is on giving you clear information and realistic advice so that you can make confident decisions.
Clients often value our local presence for reasons such as:
- Familiarity with the Montgomery County Court of Common Pleas and nearby courts
- Understanding of Main Line school districts and how they may factor into custody plans
- Ability to meet with you in person to review documents and prepare for important dates
- Awareness of regional resources that may support families during and after a case
Frequently Asked Questions
How will you approach my divorce case?
We start by learning your goals and concerns, then develop a plan that fits your circumstances. That plan may focus on negotiation or mediation, careful preparation for court, or a combination of both. Throughout, we explain each step and help you weigh options before major decisions.
Can your attorneys handle high asset divorces?
We handle divorces that involve significant assets, including real estate, investments, and business interests. We review financial information carefully and coordinate with other professionals when needed. Our aim is to help you pursue resolutions that reflect both the complexity and the value of your marital estate.
What should I do before filing for custody?
It helps to gather information about your child’s schedule, schooling, and medical needs. You can also think about what routines matter most and what kind of schedule might support your child. When we meet, we discuss these details and outline practical next steps tailored to your situation.
How involved will I be in decisions about my case?
You remain central to every major decision. We provide legal guidance, explain the range of likely outcomes, and recommend strategies, but you decide whether to accept proposals or proceed to hearings. Our goal is to ensure you feel informed, respected, and heard at each stage.
Do you work with families in Bala Cynwyd?
We work with many clients who live in Bala Cynwyd and throughout the Main Line and Montgomery County. Our familiarity with the Montgomery County Court of Common Pleas and surrounding courts helps us guide you through local procedures. We welcome the opportunity to discuss how we can assist your family.
Talk With Our Family Law Team
When you are facing a family law issue, you deserve guidance from attorneys who focus their work on families and understand the communities they serve. At Shemtob Draganosky Taylor Stein, PC, we assist clients in Bala Cynwyd and across the region with divorce, custody, and related concerns, always with an eye toward long term stability.
To schedule a time to speak with our Bala Cynwyd family law attorneys, call (215) 544-3974.
Our Areas of Practice
Dedicated to the Success of Our Clients
- Abuse | Restraining Orders | PFAs
- ADR| Arbitration | Mediation | Collaborative Law
- Alimony
- Appeals
- Business Valuation In Divorce
- Child Custody And Visitation
- Child Support
- Divorce
- Equitable Distribution Property
- Grandparent Visitation Custody
- High Asset Divorce
- Post Divorce Issues
- Prenuptial Agreements
- Property Settlement Agreements
- Relocation
- Retirement Benefits In Divorce
- Same Sex Marriage
- Separation Agreements
Meet the Team
Reputable & Trusted Family Law Attorneys
Vigorously Representing Clients to Achieve Their Goals
Former Clients Say It Best
-
"Highly experienced, client-focused and efficient service"
I appreciated David Draganosky’s informed guidance and willingness to move forward diligently, which set the stage for a favorable resolution. Your firm’s reputation for highly experienced, client-focused and efficient service is well-deserved.
- Former Client -
I was wary about my rights as a father with my children and concerned about having enough time with them during the week and for holidays and breaks from school. Your help in hammering out a very detailed and fair custody agreement was appreciated more tha- Former Client
-
Lori Shemtob and her associates were the perfect choice. Lori has the perfect demeanor to defuse any volatile situation.- Former Client
-
Cynthia’s practical knowledge of negotiation and the law helped me in a tense situation where my ex-husband did not want me to take the kids with me and then refused to pay any support.- Former Client
Our FAQ
Have questions? We are here to help. Still have questions or can't find the answer you need? Give us a call at 215-544-3974 today!
-
Are Prenuptial Agreements Enforceable in Montgomery County?
Prenuptial agreements are legally binding in Montgomery County, provided they meet necessary legal standards and are executed voluntarily by both parties. These agreements can specify how assets will be divided and any alimony obligations, providing clarity and protection for both spouses in the event of a divorce. It is crucial to ensure that the prenuptial agreement is comprehensive and fair, without coercion or fraudulent actions, and accompanied by full financial disclosure from both parties. Our team at Shemtob Draganosky Taylor Stein, PC can provide thorough preparation and review of prenuptial agreements to safeguard your interests and uphold their efficacy in judicial proceedings.
-
Why Choose Collaborative Divorce?
Collaborative divorce offers a respectful, non-adversarial alternative to traditional litigation in Montgomery County. This approach focuses on mutual respect and cooperation, allowing both parties to discuss their needs and work together toward a fair settlement. By involving professional financial advisers, child specialists, and communication coaches, collaborative divorce can address complex issues efficiently and preserve relationships, which is particularly important when children are involved. Our attorneys have experienced considerable success with collaborative divorce, supporting clients in achieving more personalized and amicable outcomes. If you seek a constructive legal process, collaborative divorce might be the optimal choice for your family.
-
What Are the Implications of Property Division in Divorce?
During a divorce in Montgomery County, property division is governed by equitable distribution laws, which focus on fair rather than equal division. This involves assessing various factors, including the length of the marriage, each spouse's financial situation, and contributions—both economic and non-economic—to the marriage. Our attorneys at Shemtob Draganosky Taylor Stein, PC, work diligently to protect your interests and ensure you receive a fair division of marital assets. Understanding how these rules apply to your circumstances can significantly impact financial stability post-divorce, making it vital to have knowledgeable legal assistance to navigate this complex aspect effectively.
-
How Does Montgomery County Handle Child Custody?
Child custody decisions in Montgomery County are centered around the best interests of the child, considering factors such as the child's physical, emotional, and mental well-being. The court evaluates the ability of each parent to provide a stable and nurturing environment, the child's preference, and the level of conflict between parents, among other elements. Joint custody is often favored, allowing both parents to participate actively in the child's life unless circumstances dictate otherwise. Legal counsel can assist in crafting a custody agreement that honors the court’s standards while addressing your family’s unique needs. Understanding these considerations ensures a smoother legal process and contributes to a more amicable co-parenting relationship.
-
What Is the Difference Between Legal Separation & Divorce?
Legal separation and divorce are two distinct processes with different legal outcomes. In Montgomery County, a legal separation allows couples to live apart and make arrangements regarding child custody and financial responsibilities without formally ending the marriage. This option can be beneficial for couples who may still hold religious, financial, or personal reasons for maintaining their marriage status. Conversely, a divorce legally dissolves the marriage and resolves all related issues, including property division, alimony, and child custody. It is essential to understand which option aligns best with your circumstances, and consulting with a family law attorney in Montgomery County can help clarify the best path forward for you and your family.