If you are experiencing marital difficulties or considering a separation or divorce, it is vitally important that you consult with one of our family law attorneys before you take any action whatsoever toward the dissolution of your marriage.
Consulting with one of our attorneys is important even if you are hoping to come to an overall amicable agreement with your spouse. In fact, a knowledge and awareness of your rights and responsibilities as well as those of your spouse will aid you in making intelligent decisions, regardless of whether you agree or whether you litigate. However, the inverse is also true: if you are unaware of the law as it pertains to the divorce process and to your specific situation, you will be severely handicapped in making wise decisions, and you may even say and do things which will have long range and irreparable negative effects upon the outcome of your divorce and related matters.
These related matters include but are not limited to the following issues:
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The marital estate – What are the marital assets and how are they valued
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Equitable distribution – How will the marital assets be divided?
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Child support – Who pays and how much?
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Physical custody – When will the children be in Mother’s care and when will they be in Father’s care?
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Legal custody – Who will make major decisions concerning the children’s welfare and well being?
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Spousal support and/or alimony pendente lite – Will one spouse be obligated to pay the other any type of support while the divorce is pending?
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Alimony – Will one spouse will be obligated to pay the other any type of support after the divorce is final?
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Attorney’s fees – Will one spouse will be obligated to pay the other’s attorney’s fees?