Chesterfield Family Lawyer

Family disputes and conflicts may lead to legal matters like separation, divorce, child custody, and support. These proceedings can leave you emotionally and financially drained. Even under the best circumstances with amicable proceedings, this may be a stressful time in your life.

The best way to protect yourself, your relationships, and your best interests is to work with a Chesterfield family lawyer at Jones Family Law Group. Whatever issues you face, our experienced legal team is here to guide you through them.

Common Family Law Cases in Chesterfield

Family law encompasses a wide range of issues. Some of the most common cases our family lawyers handle include the following:

• Contested or uncontested divorces and division of property
• Separation agreements
• Child and spousal support
• Child custody, visitation, and parenting plans
• Petitions to establish paternity
• Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements
• Mediation services
• Grandparent visitation rights
• Restraining Orders or Orders of Protection

Family matters are unique and may involve various factors and complex proceedings. A Chesterfield family attorney at Jones Family Law Group could provide legal support and advice tailored to your situation.

Divorce Proceedings Under Family Law

Proceedings for divorce, or dissolution of marriage, might be less stressful if separating couples can work together to reach settlements amicably. Unfortunately, this is not possible for every family, and it is crucial to understand your options and rights in contested cases.

The process often involves a wide range of legal issues, including parenting plans to cover child custody and support, spousal support, property division, and more. Typically, the longer the marriage, the more complex the proceedings.

Child Custody Arrangements

Divorce is often stressful for children, and certain factors can improve or worsen the circumstances. Cooperation and agreement to co-parent and work together for children’s best interests will help them adjust to the situation.

According to the Missouri Revised Statute § 452.375, the family court may give the divorcing spouses joint legal custody, sole legal custody, joint physical custody, or sole physical custody. Missouri family courts aim to ensure that children spend as close to equal time with both parents as possible when the circumstance permit it. However, the court will make the final decision about custody and visitation based on the children’s best interest. After reviewing your case, a family lawyer in Chesterfield could answer specific questions about divorce and child custody proceedings.

Child Custody and Support Order Modifications

Family law also allows parents to petition the court for modifications to parenting and visitation plans as well as child support orders. The family court may modify arrangements when either parent has a significant and substantial change of circumstances. The judge will consider factors that cause a significant lifestyle change, including the following:

• Sudden or unforeseen changes in employment or income
• Accidents leading to the need for ongoing medical care and disabilities
• Substantial changes in the children’s financial needs
• Increase or decrease in the cost of childcare
• A significant difference in the time children spend with a parent

When parents can work together and agree on the changes to the orders, they can petition the court for final approval once complete. The family courts in Missouri support parents working together without judge oversight. A Chesterfield family attorney at our firm could help explore options for resolving cases amicably wherever possible.

Call a Skilled Family Attorney in Chesterfield Today

Family matters make for some of the most impactful and difficult legal cases. Whether you are dealing with the end of a marriage, child custody or support, parenting plans, marital agreements, or any other family law issue, you are not alone.

A Chesterfield family lawyer at our firm understands what you are going through and will help you navigate the process. Jones Family Law Group is here to help you choose the right path for you and your family. Call us today to get started.