The Donna Adelson Case: A Sobering Lesson for Nebraska Families in High-Conflict Custody Disputes
Custody disputes are emotionally draining, but in rare cases, they can escalate into something far more dangerous. The nationally publicized Donna Adelson case—which resulted in her conviction for the murder-for-hire of her former son-in-law, Dan Markel—is a chilling example of how a high-conflict custody battle can spiral out of control. While such extreme outcomes are rare, the case offers critical lessons for families in Nebraska. It highlights the importance of early legal intervention, the risks of unresolved hostility, and the complex legal questions surrounding grandparents’ visitation rights. This post breaks down the case, explains the related “Markel Act” in Florida, and clarifies how Nebraska law addresses these sensitive family matters.
A Custody Dispute Turned Criminal: The Donna Adelson Story
At its heart, the conflict between Dan Markel and his ex-wife, Wendi Adelson, started like many family law cases. Following their divorce, they disagreed on parenting time and, crucially, Wendi’s desire to relocate with their children. Prosecutors successfully argued that this dispute motivated the Adelson family to conspire in a murder-for-hire plot that ended in Dan Markel’s tragic death in 2014.
Years later, Donna Adelson, the children’s maternal grandmother, was convicted of first-degree murder, conspiracy, and solicitation. The case serves as a stark reminder that when emotions override legal processes, the consequences can be devastating for everyone, especially the children caught in the middle.
Why Early Intervention in Nebraska Custody Cases Is Crucial
Most custody disagreements in Nebraska do not involve violence, but they can escalate when relocation disputes, accusations of alienation, or disagreements over parenting plans are left unresolved. The Adelson case illustrates the extreme danger of unchecked hostility.
Engaging a Nebraska family law attorney early can help de-escalate conflict and create clear, enforceable solutions. Tools available under Nebraska law include:
Mediation, where a neutral third party helps parents negotiate parenting time.
Court-Ordered Parenting Plans, which establish legally binding schedules and expectations.
Parenting Coordinators, sometimes appointed in high-conflict cases to resolve day-to-day disputes without returning to court.
Early legal intervention is not a sign of weakness—it is a proactive way to protect your child’s stability and keep conflict from spiraling.
A Legal Landmark: The “Markel Act” in Florida
In the wake of this tragedy, Florida passed the “Markel Act,” a law that expands grandparents’ rights. It allows grandparents of a deceased parent to petition for visitation rights if their child was murdered by the other parent or their family.
This law recognizes the importance of preserving extended family ties in situations where a child has suffered an extreme loss. While the Markel Act is specific to Florida, it has fueled a larger national discussion about how states balance parental rights with a child’s best interests.
Grandparent Visitation Rights in Nebraska: What You Need to Know
Nebraska law does not mirror the Markel Act, and grandparents here face significant hurdles. Nebraska Revised Statute § 43-1802 governs grandparent visitation. A grandparent may petition the court for visitation only under certain circumstances:
One or both of the child’s parents are deceased.
The child’s parents are divorced or their marriage has been legally dissolved.
The parents have never been married, but paternity has been legally established.
Even when one of these conditions is met, grandparents must still prove that:
Visitation is in the best interests of the child, and
The visitation will not interfere with the parent-child relationship.
This is a high bar, and courts in Nebraska apply it strictly. Skilled legal representation can make the difference in presenting evidence and protecting relationships between children and extended family.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the warning signs of a high-conflict custody case?
Frequent disputes, refusal to follow parenting plans, threats about relocation, and deep hostility between family members are red flags. Early legal guidance can prevent escalation.
What is the “Markel Act,” and does it apply in Nebraska?
The Markel Act is a Florida law that allows grandparents to seek visitation when their child has been murdered by the other parent’s family. It does not apply in Nebraska. Nebraska has its own statutes governing grandparent visitation.
What are the requirements for grandparents to get visitation rights in Nebraska?
Under Neb. Rev. Stat. § 43-1802, grandparents must meet one of three statutory conditions (death, divorce, or unmarried parents with paternity established) and prove that visitation serves the child’s best interests without interfering in the parent-child relationship.
I’m facing a custody dispute in Nebraska. What should I do first?
Your first step should be to consult with an experienced Nebraska family law attorney. They can explain your rights, explore mediation, and if necessary, represent you in court to protect your child’s stability.
Conclusion: Protecting Your Family’s Future
The Donna Adelson case is a tragic outlier, but it shows how destructive family conflict can become when it’s left unchecked. For Nebraska families, the lesson is clear: address disputes early, use the legal tools available, and seek guidance from professionals who can prioritize your child’s best interests.
If you are navigating a custody dispute or have questions about grandparents’ rights under Nebraska law, contact our office today for a confidential consultation. We can help you understand your options and protect what matters most—your family.