FAMILY LAW

Spouses who have abusive spouses are in most danger when they seek divorce. You should protect yourself by getting as much help and support you can. You can file a restraining order, the process of which varies state to state. You should also consider state and local programs aimed at helping survivors of domestic abuse. You also want to build a network of support using friends and family as well as a supportive family law attorney.

Spousal maintenance or as it is more commonly known, Alimony, is determined on a case-by-case basis with each state having their specific, respective guidelines. Most states consider the present earning ability and future earning opportunities of the spouses. If one spouse was dependent on the other spouse through the marriage, that factor will weigh heavily on any court’s decision on alimony. Those circumstances are less common in current times.

The standard for custody of children is the best interests of the child. In all but extraordinary circumstances, it is considered to be in the child’s best interest to have a good relationship with both parents. It is an unfortunate fact that sometimes a parent, out of anger or spite, will attempt to interfere with the other parent’s valuable parenting time. Legal procedures are often used to carry out these strategies. At Lemme Law Offices, we will not represent a client that seeks to interfere with a parenting relationship without sound and legitimate reason.

If a parent is the victim of legally abusive strategies or parental alienation, it is an honor for Lemme Law Offices to zealously represent them. A review of every possible claim and remedy against persons employing illegal or immoral tactics will be made. Legal strategies and even
mental health counseling have been weaponized in some cases to improperly interfere with the rights of parents, to the detriment of children.

Spouses who have abusive spouses are in most danger when they seek divorce. You should protect yourself by getting as much help and support you can. You can file a restraining order, the process of which varies state to state. You should also consider state and local programs aimed at helping survivors of domestic abuse. You also want to build a network of support using friends and family as well as a supportive family law attorney.

The cost of your divorce will depend on multiple factors. The lawyer you select to represent you makes a difference in how your family law matter will proceed. Family law matters are ordinarily billed at an hourly rate. The more attorney time that a case requires, the more expensive that matter becomes. Quite naturally, a uncontested divorce in which the parties agree will not cost as much simply because the process is much more straightforward.  If there are matters in dispute, cost will be affected. The costs depend on factors like: 

- The extent of the disputes or disagreements between the spouses
- The potential for custody battles
- The number of assets, including the allegations of hidden assets
- The attorney you hire (and that your spouse hires)––and that does not only mean the attorney fees but the lawyer’s legal competency; skills; and their management of time, resources and emotions.

The starting point in terms of costs depends on the circumstances including whether children are involved and the amount of assets to be considered. The ownership of businesses

Child custody, visitation, and child support are determined case-by-case with each state having their specific, respective guidelines. Indiana makes use of guidelines which can be explored here: Child Support Calculator Courts also recognize that both parents are financially responsible for the child. Child custody, visitation, and child support will reflect those beliefs as the basis of the determination.