Family Law & Divorce

Raymond E. Oster

David J. Gamble, Jr.

• Divorce
• Paternity
• Prenuptial Agreements, Postnuptial Agreements, Cohabitation Agreements
• Post-Divorce Modifications In Custody & Visitation
• Post-Divorce Changes In Alimony Or Child Support
• Adoptions & Termination of Parental Rights
• Collection Of Unpaid Alimony And Child Support
• Elder Law
• Guardianships
• Protective Orders
• Name Changes
• Matters Touching on Families

CONTESTED AND UNCONTESTED DIVORCE

Divorce is the legal termination of a marriage. The issues generally involved in a divorce include: (a) child custody, visitation and support; (b) property characterization, valuation and division; (c) spousal support; and (d) attorney's fees and costs. Our firm has extensive experience with both contested and uncontested divorce actions. At a consultation, your important rights regarding all aspects of the divorce action will be described in detail.

PATERNITY

Paternity is the legal process associated with establishing parentage, custody, visitation, and support of children born out of wedlock. As with divorce, paternity can either be contested or uncontested. Our firm will describe and protect your rights regarding your child(ren) in an action regarding paternity.

PRENUPTIAL AGREEMENTS, POSTNUPTIAL AGREEMENTS and COHABITATION AGREEMENTS

Engaged, married or cohabiting couples may enter into agreements defining their property rights, and depending upon the type of agreement, their support and other rights and obligations. Such agreements require special expertise and attention. A well drafted agreement may serve as the foundation of an estate plan and may reduce the cost and uncertainty of litigation, should the marriage end by divorce.

The rise of non-traditional family units is widespread. The problems which arise from single parent adoptions, artificial insemination and cohabitation are as complex and heartfelt as any which arise during marriage and, indeed, in some ways are much more difficult since the rules are less-well developed. This area of the law is developing at a fast pace throughout the United States.

POST-DIVORCE MODIFICATIONS IN CUSTODY AND VISITATION

Including the seeking or defense of a relocation of the children outside of the state. During the minority of the children, custody and/or visitation may be modified if there has been a material change of circumstance which makes a different custodial or visitation arrangement to be in the best interests of the children.

POST-DIVORCE CHANGES IN ALIMONY OR CHILD SUPPORT

Child support may be reviewed every three years, or sooner if there has been a material change of circumstance warranting a different level (up or down) of support. As a general rule, alimony is modifiable (up or down), upon establishment of a material change of circumstance.

ADOPTION AND TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS

We do not seek or place children for adoption, but we do handle adoptions which go through a licensed adoption agency. In addition, our firm seeks and defends actions regarding terminations of parental rights.

COLLECTION OF UNPAID ALIMONY AND CHILD SUPPORT

Generally, you may utilize the services of the Family Support Division of the District Attorney's office in the county that you reside to collect child support. You also have the right to collect it through private means. However, before this firm would undertake collection of alimony or child support arrearages, the amount due would have to be significant to warrant the fees.

ELDER LAW

GUARDIANSHIPS

We represent parties in contested and noncontested guardianships regarding minors and elders.

PROTECTIVE ORDERS

We represent individuals in all aspects regarding Temporary/Extended Protective Orders Against Domestic Violence and Stalking and Harrassment Orders.

NAME CHANGES

We prepare and file all documents necessary for a legal name change.

MATTERS TOUCHING ON FAMILIES

We will review any problem or question you may have relating to family relations.

Disclaimer These materials have been prepared by Fahrendorf, Viloria, Oliphant & Oster L.L.P. for informational purposes only and are not legal advice. Transmission of the information is not intended to create, and receipt does not constitute, and attorney-client relationship. No person should act upon this information without seeking professional counsel.

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