Family law attorneys specialize in dealing with sensitive family issues. They handle legal issues that affect the members of the family.
A divorce or adoption of a child is a life-changing experience. It can also be emotionally-intense and stressful. A family law attorney is experienced in handling the different aspects of family law in Minnetonka.
When you hire a family law attorney, they will explain the nuances of family issues, as well as the risks, alternatives, and options in every course of action. This information can help you maintain a balanced mindset even during emotionally-charged moments.
Family law attorneys in Minnetonka practice in areas of:
- Divorce
- Division of property, assets, and debt
- Child support
- Child custody and visitation/parenting time
- Spousal maintenance (alimony) or support
- Modifications of custody and support
- Paternity issues
- Domestic abuse and harassment
- Orders for protection and restraining orders after allegations of domestic violence
Here are a few duties of family law attorneys in Minnetonka.
Offer Assistance during a Divorce
A divorce can be emotionally distressing. Moreover, different states follow different laws to grant a divorce. A family law attorney in Minnetonka will be well-versed in the state-specific laws.
They will know that Minnesota is a no-fault state and accordingly help with critical aspects like alimony, division of assets, among others. An experienced family law attorney will also help you navigate through the complex court system. They will
support you by providing competent representation and protecting your rights.
Help with Pre-and-Post-Nuptial Agreements
A pre-nuptial agreement is created before you get married. This agreement outlines the property and assets that belong to both you and your spouse. It also specifies who will be entitled to how much of the cumulative assets in the case of a divorce.
A post-nuptial agreement details these factors after you get married. However, considerations like child custody and support aren’t included in the prenuptial agreement.
A family law attorney in Minnetonka will assist you with drafting and registering these agreements in court. Also, they will support you in case your spouse violates the terms and conditions of the agreement. Your attorney will present your side of the case in a positive light and work towards getting you your entitled share of the assets.
Ease the Process of Child Custody
Divorce proceedings may get complicated when child custody is involved. It is important to ensure that your children are not psychologically impacted. As per Family Law in Minnetonka, the following factors are considered before deciding on child custody:
- Which parent shares a better bond with the child/children
- Criminal or drug activity on the part of one or both parents
Often, a child custody agreement is formulated outside the court. However, in the absence of an agreement, your family law attorney gathers evidence in connection with the abovementioned factors to present in the court. Based on the evidence, the final custody verdict is provided by the court.
Help Obtain Child Support
Most states have set formulas to determine the child support amount. Minnesota child support laws 2018 brought about several changes though. However, according to Minnesota statutes, basic child support is calculated based on the combined gross income of both parents. You will need to submit relevant documentation of your earnings and income when you file the initial pleadings for child support.
In the case of a dispute in providing child support, your family law attorney ensures that the court has all the required documents to calculate the appropriate amount. They will also need information like:
- Accurate income of the parents
- Healthcare expenses of the children
- Allowable deductions, if applicable
The family law attorney also investigates if any one of the spouses is trying to hide sources of income, or are underemployed or intentionally unemployed.
Support in Adoption Procedures
Family law attorneys don’t help only during a family crisis, they support special moments of joy, like adoption, as well. Family law attorneys make sure you have all the right paperwork in place. They also guide you through the necessary processes to legalize the adoption.
Check on Cases of Abuse and Neglect
If your child is being neglected by your spouse, you should seek the help of a family law attorney in Minnetonka at the earliest. They will advocate on your behalf to get your child back from your neglectful spouse.
Also, if you are facing an accusation of abuse/neglect, your family law attorney will defend you and protect your rights.
Needless to say, collaborating with experienced family law attorneys will help you manage these sensitive areas of family-related issues in a legal manner.
Conclusion
As legal professionals, family law attorneys are indispensable when sensitive family issues need to be dealt with. They are experienced in and should be hired for managing critical areas of child custody, child support, pre and postnuptial agreements, divorce, and more. Family law attorneys fiercely protect your best interests and fight for a favorable outcome based on the specific facts of the case.
Reach Out to Our Team of Family Law Attorneys Today!
Hiring an experienced family law attorney can change your life for the better. At Carlson & Jones, P.A, we understand how a competent family law attorney in Minnetonka helps resolve sensitive family-related issues. Call us on 855-762-6548 or contact us online to discuss your case.