What Is The Best Way To Resolve My Divorce Disputes?
Every divorce is different, and there is no one “right” way to resolve disputes. However, many conflicts are successfully resolved cooperatively, or through the use of the mediation process. Mediation allows parties to express their goals and, with guidance from a mediator, helps create a settlement that both parties can agree to. When parties cannot come to an agreement cooperatively, or by using mediation, they may go to family court to resolve their divorce dispute.
How Much Will My Divorce Cost?
The cost of a divorce varies from case to case depending on which issues will need to be addressed and whether you and your spouse are able to agree on matters. If you and your spouse have child support issues or complex property division matters and are unable to agree to the terms of each part of your divorce, going to family court usually adds to the cost of your divorce. If you choose to use mediation to settle your differences, your cost and the time you spend completing your divorce should be substantially less than complex litigation in court.
Can We Still Get Divorced If One Of Us Owns A Business Or We Own A Business Together?
Yes, you can still get divorced. But the future ownership of your business will need to be addressed. Speaking with a family law attorney — who is also business savvy and excels in the details — to discuss all angles is highly recommended.
At the Law Offices of J. Douglas Angel, we frequently work with other professionals to provide expert testimony and insight as needed, and this may include help from real estate appraisers, accountants, business valuators, and/or economists.
Do We Need To Be Legally Separated Before We Can File For Divorce?
No, legal separation is not a requirement to file for divorce in Indiana.
How Is Divorce Going To Affect My Future Income?
This is a complex question and the answer depends on several factors. Generally, the court divides property, assets (including investments), and debts equitably. While each party may not receive exactly 50%, the allocation is meant to be fair and equitable for each party. Spousal support (“alimony” or spousal maintenance) is an exception, not the rule, in Indiana. If you have children, child support will be part of your income equation.
What If We Need To Change Our Child Support Order In The Future?
The court understands that family dynamics and your children’s needs change. You may seek to modify your child support order to fit your family’s current needs, such as, seeking assistance to pay for private school or college education, for example.
Do I Need A Lawyer To File For Divorce?
If you and your spouse do not own property and agree to the terms of your divorce, you may not need an attorney to file for divorce. However, consulting with a divorce lawyer to review your documents prior to filing could save you from omissions or costly mistakes you wish you had known about prior to filing; for example, tax consequences.
If you own property, have assets, and/or have children together, it is highly recommended to seek experienced counsel for help with your divorce. A knowledgeable family law lawyer can reduce your stress, keep the cost of services down, and help you get it done right the first time.
Can You Help Me?
At the Law Offices of J. Douglas Angel, we have the professional and legal resources you need to resolve your divorce issues. We intensely prepare for every divorce case; even if a case does not go to court, we want to be prepared if it does. We keep you up to date on every development during the life of your case.
Call us today at 219-961-2166 or contact us by email to secure a consultation date and time with our skilled family law lawyer. Our founding attorney has served people in Northwest Indiana for over 40 years. We provide experienced and dedicated personal service in every phase of divorce, paternity, custody, and/or visitation cases. Attorney Angel and his staff can be your legal advisers, advocates, and confidants throughout the legal process.