Mercer County Family Lawyer
Issues such as divorce, child custody, and adoption can lead to heated disputes and lengthy litigation. If you are struggling to resolve one of these issues on your own, you should reach out to a qualified legal professional for help. Regardless of the type of family law issue you face, a Mercer County family lawyer could guide you through the legal process and protect your rights.
Marital Contracts in Mercer County
Before a couple enters into a marriage, they may choose to pursue a prenuptial agreement. Such an agreement will dictate how the parties wish to divide their assets should they choose to pursue a divorce in the future. This document can also address the issue of spousal support.
A postnuptial agreement is similar to a prenup, but the parties enter into this type of contract after they are married. Such an agreement has the same effect as a prenuptial agreement and lays out the details of asset division and spousal support.
When drafting such documents, couples must satisfy the state’s legal requirements, including the honest disclosure of assets, the memorialization of terms in writing, and the requirement that each party entered into the agreement voluntarily and without duress or coercion, as well as each having independent legal representation.
Child Custody Cases
In child custody matters, the court determines both physical and legal custody pursuant to a number of different factors concerning the child’s best interests. In physical custody cases, the court decides where the children will reside and who will have visitation rights. Courts are trending toward joint physical custody, but sole or primary physical custody may be warranted in some cases.
Legal custody pertains to the ability for one or both parties to render important decisions about their child, including those involving medical care, education, and religious practices. Sole or joint legal custody can be awarded, depending on the circumstances.
Many factors impact the determination of the court in child custody cases, which is why it may be important for a parent to have a Mercer County family attorney to advocate on their behalf.
Child and Spousal Support Payments
When spouses divorce, one party may have to pay alimony to the other. If the couple has children, then one spouse will be required to pay the other child support to help the receiving party cover costs relating to the child. Child support payments are based on the parties’ respective incomes, the child’s needs, and the amount of nights that the child spends with each parent.
In some cases, a spouse might pay alimony to the other party as a form of financial assistance for a certain period of time or on an open-ended basis once their divorce has been finalized. A Mercer County family law attorney could help families understand their legal rights and options in this regard.
Enlist a Mercer County Family Law Attorney for Help with Your Case
Family law is a complex area of law that involves heightened emotions and personal concerns. Working with a skilled attorney could give you the best chance to safeguard your legal rights and interests. Hiring a Mercer County family lawyer could provide you with the needed advice and support to resolve your legal matter. Contact us today to set up an initial consultation.
