We Can help With Sensitive Topics
Our family law attorneys in Troy are here to help you with various legal issues. Family disputes are one of the most sensitive areas of the law, and you need a legal advocate on your side who will help advocate for your rights.
Here are some of the top types of family law cases our team handles at Dungan & LeFevre:
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Ohio is an equal distribution state, which means that after the disclosure of the assets and obligations of the marriage, then they look to equalize 50/50, unless it’s equitable otherwise, to divide those assets and obligations between the parties.
If you need to hire a family lawyer for your divorce, give us a call today.
Divorce is one of the top reasons you may find yourself in family court. You must deal with several important legal issues when ending your marriage. Divorce can be complicated, and in these situations, it’s better to have a family law attorney who cares about you and your family. They can work with you on pre-divorce negotiations.
Our team is ready to help you protect yourself, your assets, and your future.
Under Ohio law, instead of determining child “custody,” the court system “allocates parental rights and responsibilities for the care of children.” Both parents will have visitation rights and must adhere to a specific parenting schedule.
Even if your child’s other parent seems agreeable to a loose custody schedule, a family law attorney can help create a parenting agreement that will hold them accountable, so there’s less confusion.
Both parents must provide financial support for their children, no matter their relationship. Generally, the parent will be required to provide child support to the child’s primary caregiver.
Child support will be based on several factors, like who is paying for extracurricular activities, housing, or whether the child has special needs. Support orders can be modified if the parents’ circumstances change.
In some states with community property laws, your spouse is entitled to half of the marital assets when you divorce. Ohio operates under an equitable distribution system. Marital property, assets, and debts will be distributed fairly after a divorce.
The court will consider some factors when dividing marital property, like the length of the marriage or any support payment agreements between the spouses.
Spousal support is not an entitlement in every divorce. The judge will determine whether spousal support is appropriate.
Things can affect the support amount, like the length of the marriage, both spouses’ income or education levels, or even how one spouse may have supported the other through life.
A family law attorney can examine your circumstances and work to create an equitable support plan with you.
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You could resolve your family law issues without stepping into a courtroom with help from your family law attorney. You should turn to an experienced family law attorney to ensure the best outcome if you do have to take your dispute to trial.
If you cannot reach an agreement on your family law issues outside of court, your case will go to trial, and a judge will have the authority to make these decisions for you.
That’s why you should hire a family law attorney: they can secure evidence and present if your case goes to trial.
Not all family law matters require a courtroom battle. In many cases, disputes can be resolved through cooperative methods that save time, expense, and emotional strain. Depending on your circumstances, resolution options may include:
These approaches allow families to maintain greater control over the outcome while still ensuring agreements are legally enforceable and fair.
While every case is unique, most family law matters follow a similar structure. Understanding the process can help you feel more prepared and confident.
Having experienced legal guidance at each stage helps protect your interests throughout the process.
It would be best if you had a family law attorney who would put your needs first and protect your interests and that of your children. Dungan & LeFevre’s family law attorneys are ready to hear your case.
We have extensive experience handling family law cases in court. Our insight lets us prepare for tactics your family members might use.
We also will be able to anticipate how judges will react to evidence and arguments, recognize when cases should settle outside of court, and be prepared to advocate for your rights diligently should your case go to trial.
Going through a family law dispute can be expensive. When you are going through a divorce, child custody battle, or need to draw up legal papers, it is vital to consider the cost of your attorney.
Our family law attorneys offer competitive rates and can work with you regarding payment so you can retain the legal advice and support you need when you need it most.
Family law issues are deeply emotional. This often makes these types of cases particularly contentious. The last thing you need is to make a rash decision that is not in the best interests of yourself or your children.
Our family law attorneys will be by your side every step of the way to offer objective advice and take steps to protect you wherever possible. This might include seeking protective orders, going over your finances to argue against spousal support, or gathering evidence to prove domestic violence or abuse.
No two families are alike, and family law solutions should reflect that. Our attorneys take the time to understand your goals, concerns, and family dynamics before recommending a course of action.
We focus on clear communication, tailored legal strategies, and practical solutions that align with your priorities. Whether your case requires negotiation, mediation, or litigation, our team works to protect your interests while minimizing unnecessary conflict whenever possible.
Learn More About Family Law
•When should I contact a family law attorney?
It is often best to speak with an attorney as early as possible. Early guidance can help you avoid mistakes, protect your rights, and improve your chances of a favorable outcome.
•Do I need a Legal Separation?
While some states require you to obtain a legal separation before moving forward with a divorce, that’s not the case in Ohio.
You can get a legal separation if you do not intend to remarry but do not want to go through the challenges of a divorce.
•Should I get a Dissolution or a Divorce?
It is essential to distinguish between the dissolution of a marriage and a divorce in Ohio. When your marriage dissolves, you and your spouse agree on all elements of your divorce settlement.
This includes spousal support, child support, child custody, division of marital property and assets, and more.
•How much does it cost to hire a family law attorney in Troy?
The cost of a family law case depends on several factors, including the complexity of the issues involved, whether the case is contested, and how much court involvement is required. Matters resolved through agreement are often less costly than those that proceed to trial. An attorney can discuss expected costs and help you understand your options during your initial consultation.
•Do I Need a Reason to Divorce?
In Ohio, you technically must have a reason, or “grounds,” for terminating your marriage.
Some examples include adultery, extreme cruelty, imprisonment, or incompatibility.
•What happens if a family court order is violated?
If a family court order is violated, the accused could face contempt of court or even criminal charges.
If you believe a defendant violates a court order and do not know how to protect yourself or what your next steps should be, contact your Troy family law attorney and local law enforcement officials to report these violations.
•How long does a divorce take in Ohio?
The timeline varies depending on whether the divorce is contested or uncontested. Some cases resolve in a few months, while others may take longer if disputes over custody, property, or support must be addressed by the court.
•Can child custody or support orders be changed later?
Yes. Custody, parenting time, and child support orders may be modified if there is a substantial change in circumstances, such as a job change, relocation, or changes in a child’s needs.
•What if the other parent refuses to cooperate?
If one party is uncooperative, your attorney can pursue court intervention to enforce orders, request hearings, or seek modifications that protect your rights and your child’s best interests.
•Do grandparents have visitation rights in Ohio?
In certain situations, Ohio law allows grandparents to request visitation. Courts will consider whether visitation serves the child’s best interests and the family’s circumstances.
•What happens to debt in a divorce?
Marital debts, like assets, are divided equitably. This does not always mean equally. Courts consider factors such as who incurred the debt and how it benefited the household.
•Can a parent relocate with a child after divorce?
Relocation is not automatic. The parent wishing to move may need court approval, especially if the move affects parenting time or custody arrangements.
•Do I need to go to court for every family law case?
Not always. Many family law matters are resolved through negotiation or mediation. However, court involvement may be necessary when agreements cannot be reached.
•What if domestic violence is involved?
If abuse or threats are present, legal protections may be available, including temporary restraining orders or protection orders. An attorney can help you take immediate steps to protect yourself and your children.
•How does family court decide what is fair?
Judges rely on Ohio law, evidence presented, and the specific facts of each case. Fairness is evaluated based on circumstances, not assumptions.
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