Akron Family Law Attorney

Akron, Ohio Family Law Cases We Handle

For over 30 years, we have helped our clients resolve serious, sometimes highly contested family law matters. We always aim to keep the proceedings as simple and as amicable as possible for the sake of our clients and their families. Our family law attorneys successfully represented the goals and best interests of our clients in a variety of family matters.

Counties we Practice Family Law

Contested Divorce

When couples don’t see eye-to-eye during the divorce process, they are likely headed toward a contested divorce. The court may need to make the final judgment when two parties can’t reach an agreement on critical issues relating to the ending of their marriage, such as the division of assets or child custody matters. Contested divorces are typically costly, time-consuming, and lengthy, though hiring a knowledgeable divorce attorney can make the process easier and result in a more favorable resolution.

High Net Worth Divorce

High net worth divorces involve a substantial amount of assets, therefore, are naturally more complicated. These assets can take on multiple forms, such as ownership rights to a business, multiple real estate properties, and several investment accounts. Dividing these assets can become a highly contested matter, requiring a skilled high-net-worth divorce attorney to facilitate the division and do so in a fair and equitable manner.

Dissolution of Marriage

A dissolution of marriage is a quick, simple, and less expensive way to legally end a marriage. When both parties agree to the terms of their separation agreement, they can file a petition for dissolution. The judge will ensure there is a fair agreement on all of the key matters and sign and file a judgment entry for divorce, legally ending the marriage. A dissolution is typically more streamlined than a divorce because much of the divorce process, such as negotiations and court involvement, are avoided.

Legal Separation

Unlike many other states, Ohio law allows what is known as a “legal separation.” Although all of the relevant issues, such as financial issues and child custody, are addressed, in the end, the couple is still legally married. Couples choose legal separation for a variety of reasons, including religious beliefs or a desire to keep the family legally together for the sake of their children.

Property Division

One of the most complicated and contested issues dealt with in a divorce is the division of property. Both parties are highly concerned about how the property will be distributed and whether they will receive the assets they are entitled to. Although Ohio is an equitable distribution state, meaning the property acquired during the course of the marriage is to be equally divided, many other factors come into play, such as whether the asset is considered marital property or personal property. An experienced attorney can work to quickly and amicably resolve issues relating to the division of property, making the divorce process much smoother.

Prenuptial Agreements

When a person who plans on marrying has substantial assets or has been through a previous divorce, it is common for them to seek a prenuptial agreement or “prenup.” This agreement is a contract between two people who plan to marry that addresses issues that arise in the event of a divorce or death, such as the division of assets and debts, spousal support, and expenses incurred during the marriage.

Paternity

When both parents want to be involved in a child’s life, the issue of establishing paternity can be a straightforward and easy process. However, when a father denies paternity to avoid financial responsibility or a mother attempts to keep the father out of their child’s life, the issue can become challenging. A highly skilled attorney can help a father establish paternity and gain visitation and other legal rights or assist a mother in establishing paternity and seeking child support from the father.

Fathers’ Rights

Regardless of whether a father is divorced, separated, or unmarried, Ohio law grants a father certain rights regarding their child. Many fathers feel the courts favor the mothers in issues relating to child custody and support. However, an experienced family law attorney can fight to ensure a father’s rights are established, upheld, and maintained.

Grandparent Rights

Grandparents play an important role in their grandchildren’s lives. However, a variety of situations may make it necessary for a grandparent to seek legal assistance in obtaining visitation rights in order to see their grandchildren. In other cases, grandparents may need to step in and gain custody to protect their grandchildren’s well-being. A family law attorney can be a strong advocate for the grandparents’ rights and the well-being of the youngest members of their family.

Spousal Support

One of the most highly contested matters in a divorce is the issue of paying or receiving spousal support. Although many factors are taken into consideration when calculating spousal support, often spouses feel they are paying too much or not receiving enough. A family law attorney can look at all the facts and present them effectively to ensure an ex-spouse receives what they are entitled to and to ensure an ex-spouse does not pay more than what is fair and required by law.

Child Custody

Custody and child visitation rights can cause major contention between two parents. Many times, an agreement can’t be reached, so the matter must be decided in court. Because of the complexity and emotional significance of custody and visitation issues, it is highly recommended that a parent seek legal guidance from a trusted and knowledgeable family law attorney; one who can provide thoughtful insight and employ an effective legal resolution.

Child Support and Child Support Modification

Both parents are responsible for providing financial support to their children, whether they are married, divorced, or never married. Courts take several factors into account when determining child support. By hiring a skilled family law attorney, the parent can be sure that their financial information is correctly represented to the court while also ensuring their child receives the financial support they need. An attorney can also help with a child support modification, which is often necessary when the financial needs of a child or a parent’s financial situation changes significantly.

Guardianship

When parents are unwilling or unable to care for their child properly, an adult who is not the child’s parent may seek to take over the care, supervision, and custody of that child. Obtaining guardianship can be a long and challenging process, especially when one or both parents object. That is why it is essential to have an experienced family law attorney to make sure the process goes as smoothly and quickly as possible.

Speak with an Experienced Family Law Attorney in Akron, Ohio

The stakes are high when dealing with any family law issue. The seasoned attorneys at Slater & Zurz understand the outcome of your case will have a substantial, far-reaching impact on the lives of everyone in your family. Because we know just how much is riding on your case’s result, our dedicated and compassionate family law attorneys will work tirelessly to obtain the best possible resolution; one that is beneficial for both you and your family. We will offer our heartfelt support and insightful guidance throughout the entire process and continue to be there whenever you need us, even after your case is resolved.

When you retain our assistance, you can rest assured, knowing your goals and priorities will be aggressively pursued. Our attorneys will put our knowledge, skills, and resources to work for you in every aspect of your case by determining the most effective strategy, resolving conflicts as they arise, negotiating with only your best interests in mind, and advocating firmly on your behalf in court if needed. With so much riding on the outcome of your family law matter, you need highly skilled legal representation. Our attorneys draw on over 100 years of collective experience to pursue every legal avenue to achieve the result you need. If you are faced with a family conflict, we highly recommend reaching out to our firm to schedule a FREE, confidential consultation. Call 330.762.0700 or contact us online to get started today.

If you have additional questions about your divorce case, please visit the divorce FAQ page or call us.