Usually, people associate Los Angeles divorce attorneys with the dissolution of marriage. However, legally ending a marriage may only be one of a client’s many needs. Lawyers with experience and broad knowledge of family law concerns can assist you in several other ways.
1. Spousal Support (Alimony)
If you are going through a divorce, you know that it’s not just a legal relationship that is ending. It’s a way of life, and, potentially, a source of income on which you have relied for years.
The purpose of spousal support is to help a spouse maintain the standard of living following the marriage. There is both temporary and permanent spousal support, with the needs of the case deciding which is applied.
When couples maintain their own private accounts or when one person handles the majority of the assets, it’s easy for finances to be misrepresented. Los Angeles divorce attorneys help clients analyze the finances of the other party and to calculate what, if any, spousal support should be owed.
2. Child Support
Similar to spousal support, Los Angeles divorce attorneys assist clients in calculating the financial assistance that children from the marriage will require.
The calculations and the formula are not subject to change. However, there may be disagreements between you and your spouse about the values used in the formula. I often employ my background as a former practicing CPA (currently inactive) to ensure that salaries and wages are represented accurately.
3. Child Custody
Where children reside after a divorce and who has responsibility for the major decisions related to their lives is hugely important. However, even when dealing with these issues, I believe that Los Angeles divorce attorneys have a responsibility to protect children from the process.
Your attorney will help you negotiate on fair terms with the other party and, if necessary, bring your case before a court. If the latter happens, an effective attorney will represent you as reasonable, open to settlement, and concerned about the best interests of your children.
Other Family Law Issues
Dividing assets and debt; modifying orders; dealing with domestic violence: each of these may be areas with which a family law attorney can assist you. Get guidance in your case by calling the Law Offices of Charles M. Green at (213) 387-4508.