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Answering Your Questions About Family Law

If your family is going through a complicated legal issue, you probably feel overwhelmed. Overwhelmed not only by emotional strain but also by the numerous questions you have about the law.

At Mahaffey & Associates, our experienced and caring attorneys can assist you. To begin, we have compiled a list of some of the questions that our clients frequently ask us about family law.

What are the various methods of divorce?

There are several options for divorce.

  • Mediation is when spouses work with a neutral mediator to reach mutually satisfactory outcomes.
  • Collaborative divorce uses both mediation and negotiation to resolve a divorce out of court.
  • Traditional divorce involves spouses going to court to receive a divorce decree from a judge.

To learn which method of divorce is best for you, contact Mahaffey & Associates to speak with a lawyer.

How long does a divorce usually take?

This question is at the top of most spouses’ minds, but it is impossible to answer unless we know your particular circumstances. Some couples can finalize their divorce within a few weeks. Other cases can take months or even years.

How do courts in Ohio divide assets?

Ohio is an equitable distribution state. If your divorce proceeds to trial, then the court will divide your property and assets in a manner that is fair and equitable. This does not necessarily mean 50-50. The court will consider factors like the length of the marriage, the contribution of each spouse to the marriage and each spouse’s income.

How do courts in Ohio determine custody and visitation?

Family courts in our state give equal preference to the mother and the father. The court may issue joint custody, in which both parents have custody of the child, or sole custody, in which only one parent does. Some factors that will influence a custody and visitation decision include:

  • Each parent’s mental and physical ability to care for a child
  • The child’s relationship with each parent
  • The presence of substance abuse
  • The presence of child abuse
  • The stated preference of the child, in certain cases

Do I really need to hire an attorney for a family issue?

It may be tempting to save money by handling a legal matter on your own, but this can end up costing you in the long run. Many people encounter complications or make errors that end up costing more money than if they had hired a lawyer in the first place. In addition, a lawyer knows how to work for and attain the results that you want.

Learn More From A Family Lawyer

Mahaffey & Associates, is here for you during your family’s challenging problem. Contact one of our caring attorneys to schedule an initial consultation where you can ask more questions. Contact us online or call 419-741-0111 to get started today.