People naturally like to keep private matters within the family. Sometimes, however, you need professional assistance with a family issue. If your situation has legal implications, an Independence family lawyer offers discrete and capable assistance.
Handling a marital or family issue without legal counsel can be far more expensive than consulting a knowledgeable attorney. We could use our experience in family law matters to resolve your situation and meet your goals as quickly and cost-effectively as possible.
Marital Agreements
Marital agreements are a simple and straightforward way for couples to set financial expectations and resolve property issues. If a couple has children from prior relationships, a marital agreement protects both spouses and the children and ensures the couple’s wishes regarding the property are clear.
Prenuptial agreements are signed before marriage and take effect when the couple marries. The agreement can designate certain property as the separate property of one spouse and describe how the couple will divide marital property if the marriage does not endure. Postnuptial agreements are negotiated and signed after the couple is married, and can cover issues regarding property, business interests, and even marital misconduct.
Both prenuptial and postnuptial agreements are enforceable, provided the couple complies with certain conditions. Both parties must disclose their finances fully before the agreement is signed, and each party must have the opportunity to review the agreement with their own legal counsel. An Independence family law attorney could draft an agreement or review an agreement someone else drafted and explain the legal implications. No one should sign a marital agreement without a clear understanding of their rights and the impact the agreement will have on them.
Legal Separation and Divorce
Kentucky recognizes legal separation and divorce. A couple may enter a legal separation either temporarily while they decide whether to try to save their marriage or permanently. Some couples prefer not to divorce for religious reasons or practical ones, like allowing a spouse continued access to health insurance.
A legal separation is recognized by the court, which ratifies the couple’s separation agreement. The agreement covers issues like cost-splitting between the two households, spousal and child support, and arrangements regarding the children. A couple who has been legally separated for one year can convert their separation into a divorce with the help of a family lawyer in Independence.
A couple can also divorce without filing for a legal separation. A spouse could cite the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage, and a court may grant the divorce even if the other spouse disagrees. A couple is eligible for divorce if they live separately for at least 60 days.
Issues Concerning Children
Any issue concerning children triggers strong emotions and anxiety. Our Independence family attorneys handle these matters with sensitivity, always keeping the children’s best interests front of mind.
Couples increasingly have children while unmarried, and establishing paternity is often necessary. Sometimes, these matters can be handled through negotiation, but when that is ineffective or impossible, a legal professional could bring or defend a paternity action in court.
Whether couples are married or not, separated or divorced, time with the children is precious. Establishing fair and workable custody and visitation arrangements is often draining and time-consuming, but the children benefit from substantial contact with both their parents. Seasoned legal professionals help parents negotiate and enforce workable agreements concerning child custody, visitation, and support.
Contact an Independence Attorney About Your Family Issues
Choosing a family attorney can be challenging. You need someone who knows the law and has excellent skills, but you also need to feel you can trust them with sensitive information and difficult topics.
An Independence family lawyer provides the competent and confidential legal support you need with sensitivity and compassion. Schedule a consultation today.
