Chester County Family Law Attorneys With The Power To Help
Are you going through difficult times at home? Do you have concerns or fears about child custody issues, spousal support issues or divorce? If so, you need the help of our experienced family law lawyers, as they will protect your rights and interests every step of the way. Contact the Kennett Square family law lawyers at Donze & Donze Attorneys at Law to put their experience in handling Pennsylvania family law cases to work for you.
Overview Of Pennsylvania Family Laws
The commonwealth of Pennsylvania utilizes separate procedures for the most common issues surrounding family law. What this means is that each stage of your case is handled separately. Those people going through a divorce in Pennsylvania may potentially face up to four different hearings for each issue they face. Some of these issues are:
- Child support
- Custody and visitation
- Division of property/assets
- Spousal support/alimony
Keeping this sometimes-complicated family law system moving forward is one of our attorneys’ most important duties.
Hire Top Pennsylvania Divorce Lawyers
Under Pennsylvania law, a divorce can be granted if both parties consent and 90 days have elapsed from the time of filing and service of a divorce action. If one party to a divorce does not consent, the filing party can obtain a divorce on his or her own but must demonstrate that the couple has been separated for a period of one year.
Hearings on the questions of child support, child custody, property division, marital assets and spousal support/alimony are all handled separately in Pennsylvania. You want a skilled Pennsylvania divorce attorney who has ample experience dealing with these sometimes-complicated and convoluted divorce proceedings to guide you toward achieving your goals while preserving your rights.
Capably Handling Child Support And Child Custody
In most cases, Pennsylvania law requires parents to enter into mediation with a court appointed mediator on questions of child custody before the case goes before a judge. You are far better off hiring a lawyer before the mediation who knows how to counsel you in the mediation process than leaving decisions about your future with your child up to the final word of a judge. Most parents have no desire to drag their children through long and painful divorce/custody proceedings. When it comes to cases involving child support our family law attorneys are focused on preserving your parental rights while reaching a speedy resolution.
Fighting For Fair Spousal Support For You
It is important to know how and when to petition the court on questions of property division, or else you could lose rights you might never have known you had. We understand how emotional people can be about their money, and conflicts over spousal support and alimony often threaten to become the most heated. Our dedicated family law lawyers stay focused on what the judge will grant you should the case go all the way to trial, and try to direct the negotiation toward a settlement that is at least that good or better. Our Chester County family law lawyers believe that the deal you negotiate is often better for you because it is within your own control, while saving you pain and money in the process. However we will make sure that the settlement is fair and in the best interests of your children.
How Can I Prepare For My Divorce Case?
Preparing for a divorce case involves several steps to ensure you are organized and informed. Start by gathering all relevant financial documents, such as bank statements, tax returns and property deeds. Make a list of assets and debts and consider your future financial needs. Document any agreements or communications with your spouse regarding custody or asset division. Consult with a family law attorney to understand your rights and options, and consider seeking emotional support from friends or a counselor.
What Does The Court Consider When It Comes To Asset Division And Child Custody?
In asset division, courts typically consider factors such as:
- The duration of the marriage
- The financial contributions of each spouse to the marital estate
- Each spouse’s future earning capacity
Judges aim for equitable distribution, which may not always mean equal. For child custody, the court prioritizes the child’s best interests, evaluating factors including:
- The ability of each parent to care for the child
- The child’s bond with each parent
- Any history of addiction or domestic abuse.
Overall the #1 factor in child custody is the safety of the child. The child’s preferences may also be considered, depending on their age and maturity.
What Should I Look For In A Family Law Attorney?
When choosing a family law attorney, look for someone with experience and proficiency in divorce and custody cases. They should have a good track record and be familiar with local laws and court procedures. Effective communication is crucial, so find an attorney who listens to your concerns and explains legal concepts clearly. Consider their approach to conflict resolution and whether they prioritize negotiation or litigation. Finally, ensure their fees are transparent and within your budget.
Contact Our Experienced Pennsylvania Family Law Lawyers
Please dial 610-472-9120 for a consultation with the experienced team at Donze & Donze Attorneys at Law. You can also send us an email. Our Pennsylvania family law attorneys serve all of Chester County.