Shelbyville, Indiana Family Law Attorneys in Shelby County

What Is Family Law in Shelbyville, Indiana?

Family law addresses the legal issues surrounding family relationships, offering support to families during challenging times and helping guide them through complex processes to reach a positive outcome. It covers a broad range of matters, including divorce, child custody, child support, adoption, paternity, and father’s rights.

Due to the emotional nature of these cases, family law can often feel overwhelming. At Stange Law Firm, PC, we are committed to helping clients through these difficulties. Our family law practice covers many areas, such as:

Dissolution of Marriage in Shelbyville, Indiana

Dissolution, or divorce, is the legal process that ends a marriage. When a couple decides to dissolve their marriage, they must file the necessary paperwork in Indiana courts. While procedures differ by state, Indiana generally considers an equal division of assets to be fair. The length of the marriage, contributions from both parties, and any misconduct (e.g., infidelity or abuse) are considered when dividing property and debts.

Dissolution is usually handled in civil court, and alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation or collaborative processes, may be used to resolve issues before going to trial.

Maintenance and Spousal Support in Shelbyville, IN

Spousal support (formerly alimony) is often a contentious issue in divorce cases. The court will evaluate the length of the marriage, both parties’ earning potential, and any joint debt when determining the amount of support. In certain cases, maintenance may be awarded to help one spouse transition to financial independence.

Pre and Postnuptial Agreements in Shelbyville, Indiana

A prenuptial agreement is a contract made before marriage that outlines how property and spousal support will be divided if the marriage ends in divorce. Postnuptial agreements, made after marriage, serve a similar purpose but address issues that arise after the couple has wed. While these agreements cannot cover child custody or support, they can address property, assets, and spousal maintenance.

Child Custody in Shelbyville, Indiana

Child custody is often the most challenging aspect of family law cases. Courts decide custody based on the child’s best interests, considering factors such as parental relationships, stable home environments, and any history of abuse or criminal activity. If parents cannot agree, attorneys at Stange Law Firm, PC can present evidence to the court, which may include school records, expert testimony, and other relevant information.

Legal and Physical Custody in Shelbyville, Indiana

Legal custody refers to the authority to make decisions about a child’s major life matters, while physical custody relates to who the child lives with. Custody can be shared, or one parent may have primary custody. In some instances, parents may share one type of custody but not the other. Understanding local laws is crucial in determining custody arrangements, and our attorneys help clients navigate this process.

Child Support in Shelbyville, IN

Child support ensures that children receive financial support from both parents, even when they live in separate homes. Child support calculations are based on each parent’s income, applicable deductions, and other factors, such as healthcare expenses and childcare needs. If a parent attempts to hide income or avoid paying support, our attorneys work to uncover the truth and ensure accurate calculations.

Abuse and Neglect Proceedings in Shelbyville, Indiana

In cases involving allegations of child abuse or neglect, the state may intervene to ensure the child’s safety and well-being. Our family lawyers defend clients accused of abuse or neglect, assist in regaining custody for parents, and advocate for the protection of parental rights. The termination of parental rights is a serious matter, and we are committed to providing strong defense and support in these cases.