Compassionate & Caring Missouri Family Law Counsel
Ending a marriage is never easy. Even in the most amicable splits, there is a certain amount of grief and sorrow over what might have been. Whether your divorce is one you both agree to, or it is more complicated than that, I can offer the dedicated, caring legal counsel you seek.
The Help You Need When You Need It
Divorce is a new normal, and it is important to view it that way. While you work to leave the past behind, you are also building a future. Having the help you need when you need it is essential.
I have years of experience in family law. I provide diligent, dedicated representation. I listen astutely to your concerns, ensuring that your family’s interests are handled compassionately. After all, your children and their futures are also part of every decision you make.
How Mediation Can Help Resolve Family Conflicts
I seek the most efficient route through the court system. One way to assist is to participate in mediation. While the courts can set couples up as adversaries, this does not have to be the case.
Mediation provides the opportunity to discuss concerns such as spousal maintenance, custody and property division in a neutral environment that encourages discussion and resolution. Mediated divorces can often be finalized in as little as a few months, and although mediation is not required in Franklin County, I often see mediation produce some of the best outcomes.
Whether you use mediation or follow a more traditional route to divorce, I can help you with:
- Divorce
- Child custody and parenting plans
- Child support
- Spousal maintenance/alimony
- Modifications
- Guardianship and/or conservatorship (adult and minor child)
- Mediation
A Word About Social Media’s Impact on Family Law Disputes
I understand that emotions run high during divorce. Things are changing, endings are happening and all that and bring about a great deal of stress. You need to vent, and you should, but not on social media! I can’t emphasize this enough. Make sure you are getting the care you need – from your clergy, a counselor or trusted friends and family, and not from Facebook.
Understand that, during this time, both the court and your ex’s attorney scrutinize what you say and do. Remember, too, that a picture speaks a thousand words. While it may seem tough, abstain from posting photos that put you in an unfavorable light, or tweeting 140 characters of anger. Ask your friends to do the same. It is for your and your children’s best interests.
Get Answers To Your Missouri Family Law Questions
Family law issues can affect your home, finances and future. Knowing what to expect can help you make informed choices about your next steps. The following answers address common questions you may have about Missouri family law:
How soon can a divorce be finalized in local Missouri courts?
A Missouri court cannot finalize a divorce until at least 30 days after you file the petition. However, this is only the minimum waiting period, so your divorce may take longer. Missouri law also requires the court to address matters such as property division, child custody, child support and maintenance when they apply.
If you and your spouse agree on the major issues, the process may move more quickly after the waiting period. Disagreements can add time because your case may require negotiation, mediation or court hearings. The court’s schedule can also affect when your divorce becomes final.
How is the amount of child support officially determined?
Missouri courts generally use Form 14 to calculate the presumed amount of child support. The worksheet begins with each parent’s monthly gross income and applies certain adjustments before calculating support.
The calculation may include work-related childcare, health insurance and other child-related costs. Parenting time can also affect the amount. Courts generally treat the Form 14 figure as the presumed amount, but a judge may order a different amount if the calculation would be unjust or inappropriate in your circumstances.
What are the legal requirements for a stepparent to adopt a child in Franklin County?
A stepparent adoption must meet Missouri adoption requirements and receive court approval. One important issue is whether the child’s other legal parent must consent to the adoption.
Consent is often required, but Missouri law provides exceptions. For example, consent may not be necessary if a court has already terminated that parent’s rights or another statutory exception applies. In some cases, the petitioner may also ask the court to terminate parental rights as part of the adoption case.
Before approving the adoption, the court will determine whether the case satisfies Missouri’s legal requirements. Missouri law generally also requires the child to have lived in the petitioner’s lawful and actual custody for at least six months before the court enters the adoption decree, subject to an exception stated by law.
A Diligent and Capable Family Law Attorney
Located in Union, Missouri, and serving Franklin County and the surrounding areas, I at Hotz Law, LLC, provide diligent, exacting legal representation. I take your case personally – with compassionate, caring and capable legal counsel. My consultations are free, so please contact me at 636-266-2279.