FAMILY LAW
Family law matters can be very difficult and emotional experiences for a person to deal with, and the family court system is not easy to navigate unless you know what to expect, or have an experienced family law attorney on your side.
We are committed to early assessment of the legal issues in each family law case, straightforward communication with our clients, timely resolution of claims, and vigorous courtroom advocacy.
The Firm offers advice, counsel, and representation in many fields of family law practice. We always recognize our clients’ unique circumstances and personal needs, both emotionally and legally. The Firm offers legal counsel for family-related issues, including:
Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements
A prenuptial agreement is a written contract between two individuals before they’re married. It’s created with the idea of listing all property that each individual brings into the marriage, thus allowing it to be protected from division in the event of a divorce.
A postnuptial agreement is similar to a prenuptial agreement, with the primary difference being that it’s created after tying the knot.
Annulments/Declaration of Invalidity
An annulment is a legal procedure that voids a marriage.
It’s not the same as divorce, as an annulment means that the marriage was invalid from the beginning. With this, the end result is a marriage that never took place — at least not on paper.
Contested or Uncontested Divorces/Separation
Both contested and uncontested divorces are full of challenges, with both individuals having their own ideas of what should come next.
If you’re able to settle all disputes before heading to court, it’s called an uncontested divorce.
Conversely, if you’re unable to settle all disputes in mediation, it leads to the involvement of a family law judge and a contested divorce.
Division of Assets and Liabilities
Both assets and liabilities come into play in most divorces. For example, common assets that require division include:
- Bank accounts
- Retirement accounts
- Investment accounts
- Real estate, including the family home
- Business interests
- Personal belongings
- Motor vehicles
Liabilities take on many forms, such as:
- Mortgage
- Credit cards
- Personal loan
- Home equity loan or line of credit
Spousal Maintenance
Spousal maintenance — also known as alimony and spousal support — is the legal obligation of one individual to provide financial support to his or her ex-spouse.
Parenting
Parenting during and after a divorce can result in a variety of challenges, such as:
- Creating a parenting agreement.
- Creating a visitation schedule.
- Modification of a parenting agreement or visitation schedule.
It’s critical to make key decisions regarding parenting early on, as this will protect your legal rights in the future.
Adoption
The adoption process is full of many legal steps, as well as a variety of twists and turns.
With the help of an experienced family law attorney, you’ll feel better about your ability to seamlessly move through the process.
Child Custody and Modification
Child custody is one of the biggest potential sticking points in the divorce process.
For example, one individual may be fighting for sole custody, while another feels that joint custody is best.
Furthermore, should your child custody agreement no longer suit your circumstances, you may want to seek a modification from the court.
Child Relocation
Relocating with a child or children often requires you to meet a variety of requirements. This is particularly true if you have joint custody of your children.
Important questions to address include:
- What type of custody do you have?
- Do you have a relocation clause in your divorce?
- Do you need a court order?
- What steps must you take in order to relocate with your children?
Child Support and Modification
If you have children with your soon-to-be ex-spouse, questions and concerns regarding child support must be addressed.
For example, if you’re in line to receive child support, you should have a clear idea of how you’re able to spend the money.
Conversely, if you owe child support, learn more about your legal obligation, how to make monthly payments, and what to do if your circumstances change (modification).
If you have any questions about family law or related matters, reach out to an experienced family law attorney at the Law Offices of Bovino & Associates, PC for professional advice. Contact us online or give us a call today to schedule a free consultation.