- DivorceIn many divorces, parties and their lawyers have a “win-lose” approach toward litigation. A divorce case becomes a zero-sum game. But in a collaborative divorce, parties use mediation and negotiation to settle their divorce. This collaborative approach can help resolve a divorce in a peaceful, less expensive manner.
- Child SupportWhat a parent pays in child support is based on a formula. In order to find the best resolution for all parties involved, it’s important to fully understand what can have an impact on the final order.
- Child Custody and VisitationDisputes over child custody and visitation mostly involve a child’s parents, but not all the time. It’s not a new idea, but families with grandparents as primary caregivers are becoming more common. Typically, the parents are still central figures in a child’s custody case, but the grandparents also get a say.
- AdoptionOver 130,000 children are adopted in the U.S. each year. You could say it’s become quite a popular way to grow a family. When considering adoption, it’s important to understand what the process entails. Understanding third-party vs. stepparent adoption is also crucial.
- PaternityEstablishing paternity is important, especially in the midst of a custody case. The first method of deciphering paternity is voluntary, where the parents agree on who is the father of the child. The second way to determine the legal father is through a court action; after which, a judge will allocate parental rights and responsibilities between the parents.
- Premarital AgreementIf you have a prenuptial agreement, the initial concern is to verify its validity and enforceability in a family court. It is possible for either you or your spouse to question the agreement’s legality. If the prenuptial agreement is unchallenged or deemed valid after being challenged, the divorce process will be significantly less complicated. Depending on the prenuptial agreement’s provisions, there may or may not be additional matters to resolve during the divorce.
- GuardianshipAlthough custody and guardianship are similar in nature, they’re quite different. Custody can only be granted to a child’s parents – natural or adopted. Guardianship is when an adult, who is not the parent, becomes legally responsible for the child. A guardian is granted lawful power of care and control over a minor child.
- Spousal SupportOne judge could say $100 a month while another, with the same set of facts, may say $1,000 per month. Negotiating maintenance obligations presents special difficulties, and it’s encouraged that you protect your interests by working with an attorney who specializes in family law and especially spousal maintenance issues.
- Legal SeparationSome may believe that legal separation is the first step toward getting divorced. They’re not related. When a couple separates, they are still legally bound by marriage but live separately. In addition to living apart during a separation, couples also split their assets, just as they would in a divorce. There are a number of reasons why you’d separate vs divorce. Learn more below or ask an attorney.
- AnnulmentAn annulment can be initiated by either partner in the relationship. The individual who starts this legal action must prove legal grounds to do so; if they can the marriage will be considered ‘null and void’ by the court.
- Child AbuseChild protection laws are in place to ensure the well-being of children. If you feel a child is in danger you should call 911. In cases of child abuse or if the child is exposed to domestic violence, either a civil protection order or a mandatory protection order can be initiated.
- Sex CrimesThe National Domestic Violence Hotline’s website reveals that on average, there are 24 victims of physical violence, stalking, or rape by an intimate partner per minute. This comes out to over 12 million people every year. The hotline can be reached at (800) 799-7233 or (800) 787-3224. Don’t be afraid to stand up against abuse. Modern Family Law’s Divorce Attorneys can help you protect yourself.
- Restraining OrderProtection Orders, also called restraining orders, are an important tool to help make a spouse safe. They’re worth the time it takes to get. If the restrained person violates one, they’re most likely heading to jail and may face criminal charges. Protection Order may also be misused as weapon against an innocent person.
- Estate Planning
- Tax LawDivorce can be complicated, and tax planning is an essential part of the process. To ensure you’re making the best decisions for your financial future, it’s wise to consult with a tax professional or financial advisor. These experts can help you navigate the tax implications of divorce and create a plan tailored to your needs.