Family law involves resolving disputes in domestic matters. Legal issues involving family relationships, such as prenuptial agreements, post-nuptial agreements, divorce, and child custody, are often emotional and tense. Working with an experienced attorney can be crucial to navigate these complex matters.
There are options to resolve family matters through agreement, mediation, or litigation. Schedule a consultation with an Ellisville family lawyer at Jones Family Law Group to discuss your situation and get the dedicated counsel you deserve. We are here to help you reach a fair solution and protect your best interests.
Ellisville Family Law Cases
Family law cases include a wide range of cases involving family relationships and domestic problems. These matters fall within three categories:
- Cases involving marriage, such as divorce, legal separation, spousal support, and child custody arrangements
- Cases involving two people who are unmarried but share a child, such as establishing paternity, child support, and child visitation and custody arrangements
- Third-party petitioners, such as grandparents or non-biological parent substitutes seeking visitation rights or custody of children
Domestic legal issues can take an emotional toll on the entire family. Our Ellisville family attorneys understand your difficulties and could help reach a fair outcome and settlement.
Dissolution of Marriage in Missouri
Divorce, or dissolution of marriage, can be complex, emotionally challenging, and financially draining. The legal process begins when one spouse files a petition to terminate the marriage. If uncontested, the divorce may involve an amicable agreement between the couple about the division of property, child or spousal support, and child custody. If contested, the couple may require legal proceedings and litigation to settle those issues that cannot be resolved through agreement.
The documentation required to file for dissolution of marriage includes the following:
- Petition for the dissolution of marriage
- Statement of Property and Debt
- Statement of Income and Expenses
- A parenting plan, if the couple has children (usually this is filed shortly after the Petition is served, usually around 30 days)
A family lawyer in Ellisville could provide legal advice and support throughout the proceedings.
Petition for Child Custody and Support
When a parent wishes to seek child support against the other parent and the parents have never married they may file a petition for child custody and support in the family court. Cases may involve ordering support, custody, or both, depending on the family’s needs.
After a paternity establishment, fathers can share the child’s legal and financial rights and responsibilities. In the case of same-sex parents, when both parents are listed on the birth certificate, both parents can share legal and financial rights and responsibilities for the child.
Call a Knowledgeable Family Attorney in Ellisville Today
Family law issues never have one-size-fits-all resolutions. Each case has different needs and circumstances; the best outcome will depend on your family’s unique situation. An Ellisville family lawyer at our firm understands the challenges and may help you navigate the complex process.
Our legal team has the negotiation skills to help you work toward settling without involving the family court judge. We could advocate for a fair settlement outcome and court-ordered arrangement if we cannot reach an agreement or resolution. Call us today to schedule an appointment and discuss your case.