A divorce settlement can affect your lifestyle, your long-term financial security and your legal rights. Contemplating divorce is difficult. Whether or not you decide to end your marriage, it helps to learn the basics of divorce law. Should you conclude that divorce is necessary, it is important to seek the assistance of a family law attorney.
Missouri is a “modified no-fault” state, meaning that the parties only need to plead irreconcilable differences to obtain an divorce. However, conduct is relevant to issues such as the distribution of property and spousal support. As an “equitable distribution” state, Missouri takes into account a number of factors in deciding how to distribute property, including determining what is non-marital property, what is marital debt, and the financial needs of the parties.
From a legal standpoint, the divorce process will divide the couple’s Property; determine the future care and custody of their children; and give each person the legal right to marry someone else.
Division of Property
One of the most difficult and complex issues is the division of property at the time of divorce. Many couples have a difficult time reaching an agreement about how to divide their property. The ultimate division of your property depends on the complexity of the assets and liabilities. In any divorce, especially one involving complex property matters, the Law Offices of Stephen J. Hoffmann can offer valuable guidance and advocacy.
Care and Custody of Children
Your relationship with your children may need legal protection at the time of divorce. When the court determines child custody they look at: the wishes of the child, the wishes of the parents, the child’s need for a meaningful relationship with each parent, interaction between parents and children, determination of which parent is more likely to allow meaningful contact with the other parent, the child’s adjustment to home, school and community, mental and physical health of the people involved with the child, and a parent’s intention to relocate.
Contact Us at the Law Offices of Stephen J. Hoffmann in St. Louis, Missouri for a free consultation regarding any family law or divorce issues.