Experienced Frankfort Divorce Representation
Ending a marriage is both a legal and an emotional challenge. At Johnson Bowman Branco, LLP, our family law attorneys can answer the questions and concerns that arise during your divorce. From our office in Frankfort, we help divorcing spouses navigate the legal system and embark on their new life journey. Our experienced Kentucky lawyers recognize that clients look to us to be both comforting and aggressive, and we pride ourselves on our ability to fill both roles.
When the parties are amenable, we use our extensive conflict resolution skills to seek agreement through the mediation process. If disputes over issues such as property division, maintenance/alimony, custody, visitation and child support cannot be bridged, we will use litigation to protect your rights. In every situation, our lawyers seek solutions using an assertive but compassionate approach.
Knowledgeable Family Law Firm Outlines Laws Addressing Divorce Actions
Our experienced family law firm offers valuable assistance to spouses and provides detailed information regarding key legal issues, such as:
- Residency requirements and no-fault divorce – To file for divorce, one spouse must have at least 180 days’ residency in Kentucky. All dissolution of marriage proceedings are filed on a “no-fault” basis, meaning that at least one spouse states that the marriage is irretrievably broken but does not accuse their partner of any type of misconduct. Specific fault grounds, such as adultery or desertion, are not used in the state. Spouses must live apart for at least 60 days before the divorce is finalized.
- Uncontested divorce – Even if you have agreed with your spouse on every relevant issue, including custody, alimony, child support and property division, it’s important to have a qualified family law lawyer review your agreement and make sure that legal formalities are satisfied.
- Separate and marital property – Untangling assets that have been shared by spouses over several years can be complicated. Regardless of the number of assets at stake, we focus on achieving a resolution that satisfies both parties. If an agreement cannot be reached, Kentucky courts determine what is fair and reasonable based on the state’s equitable distribution law. In these matters, we work diligently to identify which assets are marital property subject to division and which are separate property, including assets owned by one spouse prior to the wedding.
- Alimony – Maintenance payments can be awarded to spouses who are unable to support themselves financially after a divorce. If you’re seeking alimony or facing a request to provide spousal support on a temporary or permanent basis, we’ll pursue a proper outcome in negotiations or litigation.
Depending on the specific issues at hand, such as whether there are children involved, the divorce process can last for a few months or longer than a year. If you’re considering ending your marriage, we can help you with issues relating to both contested and uncontested divorces as well as annulment, legal separation, and premarital and postnuptial agreements.
To prepare for your consultation, please gather as many financial documents (tax filings, bank accounts, credit card statements, loans and mortgages) that you can to make your appointment more productive.
Working To Achieve Fair Child Support And Custody Terms
Children are vulnerable when their parents divorce, and parents are compelled to establish custody and visitation arrangements that promote the well-being of their sons and daughters. Kentucky law presumes that joint legal custody should be established unless there is a reason why one parent should not have decision-making authority.
Our lawyers review the situation in detail and assist clients as they work on terms that provide a safe environment both at home and during visits with the parent who lacks primary residential custody. We also deliver sound legal support in cases where disputes exist regarding child support, including modification and enforcement proceedings.
Help With Alimony Provisions And Other Orders
We can also help you plan for the future by assisting with post-decree issues and planning. If you believe that a substantial change in circumstances justifies an adjustment in custody, visitation or alimony terms, our lawyers will assess the likelihood that your proposed modification will be approved by the court. For example, a shift of at least 15% in either parent’s income is usually considered to be a material change justifying a modification.
Contact Us To Discuss Your Options
Johnson Bowman Branco, LLP, in Frankfort, represents clients in Franklin County and the surrounding area in all types of divorce proceedings. To make an appointment for a meeting at our office, please call 502-605-6100 or contact us online.