Here To Meet Your Needs In A Divorce
Divorce is as much a life-changing experience as a marriage, and it is often emotionally and financially difficult. A couple going through this process will usually be grieving the loss of their relationship and transitioning from one joint budget with two earners to two budgets with one earner.
In addition, the couple must devote time to a multitude of important tasks and make numerous decisions that will affect them and their families for years into the future.
The Help You Need
You will need help, and that is what I am here for. While the issues and emotions affecting each couple may be similar, every person and family is unique. My approach to every new client is to listen carefully to determine what their needs are and then to explore ways in which I can help. My goal is to guide you through the process, make you aware of your options, and get you through this difficult time in your life with as little pain and expense as possible.
Is Your Divorce Simple Or Complex?
While very few people would call any divorce “simple,” some cases are much less complex than others. Some issues that can make your case more complex include:
- Property owned prior to marriage
- Contributions to a marital property with nonmarital funds
- Child custody evaluations
- Special needs children
- Requests to move children to other states
- Business interests
- High-earning parents or spouses
- Tracing mixed assets that have marital and nonmarital components
Spousal Support
In some marriages, one spouse either supports the other or has a much higher income than the other spouse. In those cases, the court may require one to provide for the support of the other either temporarily (during a transitional phase while the other becomes self-supporting) or permanently (until the death or remarriage of the other). The amount and duration of this obligation are subject to many variable factors.
Little guidance can be provided on this subject without first meeting with a client to determine whether there is a need or obligation, and, if so, what duration can be expected and what amount may be ordered. Although much advice can be given in the initial interview, nothing can be adequately predicted with complete certainty until the position of both spouses has been ascertained.
Attorney Fees
As it is not unusual in a marriage for one spouse to provide for the financial support of the other, there are legal remedies if the supported spouse does not feel they have sufficient resources to obtain the legal services they need upon separation. In such cases, the law provides options, such as an order that the higher earner pays the fees for the supported spouse or that marital assets be used to pay the costs so that both parties may have equal access to the legal services they need.
Remember: The law provides that each party shall be entitled to equal access to the courts. Sometimes that means the burden of the expense must be placed on the higher earner, or that assets are used for those needs rather than be divided.
Contact Me To Discuss Your Options
If you are concerned about your ability to obtain counsel, please contact me. I will be happy to talk to you about the many options available to you
I can answer questions regarding your Minnesota divorce case, including spousal support, property division and attorney fees. Reach out to Kaer Law, P.C., today. For immediate assistance, call (952) 432-4131.