Madison Hess

Madison began writing legal articles in 2023. She became a full-time Legal Editor for Nolo in 2025.

Education. Madison has a B.A. in philosophy from the University of Minnesota and a J.D. from the University of St. Thomas School of Law.

Legal career. Madison began working as an attorney in 2021. She practiced in rural Minnesota, focusing on family law and estate planning.

Other pursuits. Madison is passionate about art in its various forms, which she integrates into her professional life. She has created animated videos for FindLaw.com that educate viewers on legal principles.

Why Nolo? Madison is committed to helping people understand the law and legal system. She is dedicated to Nolo’s mission to educate people about their legal rights.

Articles By Madison Hess

Do Grandparents Have Visitation Rights in Alabama?

When parents divorce or one parent dies, grandparents can also be affected. Learn how to request court-ordered grandparent visitation.

New York Child Custody Laws

Child custody in New York hinges on one key question: what’s best for the child? From legal and physical custody to visitation and child preferences, every detail matters in these complex cases.

Legal Separation in Illinois FAQs

Legal separation in Illinois offers many of the same protections as divorce—without officially ending the marriage. But why choose one over the other?

Can Children Express Preference in Vermont Custody Proceedings?

Learn if Vermont judges will consider a child’s wishes when making custody decisions—and whether they’ll follow those wishes.

State Laws on When Child Support Ends

The duty to pay child support generally ends when a child reaches the age of majority or is emancipated. But you could be required to pay support for an adult child in some circumstances, depending on the law in your state.

How to Hire a Family Law Attorney

Handling a divorce, custody dispute, or adoption? Learn when legal representation might help—and when you may be able to manage a family law matter on your own.

Child Custody and Visitation Laws in Oregon

If you’re getting divorced in Oregon, child custody could be one of the most emotionally charged issues you face. Learn what’s involved so you don’t face unexpected challenges.

Imputing Income for Child Support in Tennessee

Learn how Tennessee courts calculate child support when parents hide or reduce their income, refuse to provide proof of earnings, or have valuable assets that aren’t generating income.

Adultery and Divorce in Minnesota

If you're getting divorced in Minnesota and you or your spouse has cheated, you'll need to know how the adultery will affect your case. Learn how it might impact alimony, property division, child custody, and child support.

Adultery in Maryland: Does Cheating Affect Alimony?

If you’re facing the end of your marriage because you or your spouse had an extramarital affair, you might be wondering how the infidelity might affect your divorce. Learn how Maryland divorce law deals with adultery.