Cadiz, KY Family Lawyer

Cadiz, KY Family Attorney

Family law is a delicate matter. For families that are experiencing instability and upheaval due to divorce or custody issues, you need an empathetic advocate and experienced legal counsel. A Cadiz, KY, family lawyer from Michael J. Thompson, Attorney at Law, is prepared to offer you compassionate and comprehensive legal counsel during these sensitive circumstances.

Michael J. Thompson, Attorney at Law, handles family law cases for military and nonmilitary families. Our familiarity with issues specific to military law allows us to better serve a wide range of families in Kentucky. If you are unsure how to pursue legal matters pertaining to family law, we can assess your situation and determine a strong course of action.

What Areas of Family Law Can We Help With?

Some of the areas of family law include:

• Divorce
• Property division
• Child custody
• Adoption
• Military family law

For members of the military, matters of family law may be affected by additional factors, such as military benefits and basic allowance for housing (BAH.)

Filing for Uncontested Divorce vs. Contested Divorce

Choosing to end your marriage is a big decision that can come with some hesitation. It is normal to feel uncertain about such a large life transition. If spouses cannot agree on the terms of their divorce, this is known as a contested divorce. The matters they might disagree on are:

• Child custody arrangements and visitation
• Child support
• Alimony/spousal support
• Property division
• Post-divorce modifications

Contested divorces may warrant more attorney involvement as you and your spouse make difficult decisions on these terms. We can represent you during mediation and, if no agreement can be made there, in any potential court proceedings. We can help you walk away from your divorce with a fair and equitable outcome.

However, you and your spouse may not require further discussion about the details of your divorce. If you are already in agreement on the terms of your divorce, you may qualify for an uncontested divorce. In this case, we can assist you with the paperwork and extraneous legal details. Court trials may not be necessary at all.

Divorce Proceedings for Military Personnel in Cadiz, KY

If one spouse is in the military, it can complicate divorce proceedings significantly. In addition to the emotional challenges, military divorces are faced with further inquiries into benefits, deployments, and custody arrangements that extend into multiple jurisdictions.

Military service can also heavily impact the speed of a divorce. Active-duty military personnel can delay divorce proceedings under the Servicemember Civil Relief Act (SCRA) to give full focus to their assignments. Another delay that can occur during a military divorce involves shared pensions. Spouses are only entitled to a certain percentage of their spouse’s military retirement funds. This percentage depends on the length of the marriage and the marriage’s overlap with the spouse’s military service.

Domestic Violence Charges in Military Families

Some offenses can bring penalties through military disciplinary means as well as civilian law. One of these issues is domestic violence. Repercussions of a domestic violence charge include:

• Barriers to accessing military benefits
• Limitations on child custody agreements

The military handles domestic violence charges with the utmost seriousness. If you have been accused of domestic violence, it is crucial to equip yourself with a capable Cadiz, KY Family Lawyer with experience in military law.

Child Custody Arrangements for Military Families

Where military involvement is a factor, child custody arrangements require flexibility and compassion. Military duties often pull a parent away from time with their loved ones. The nature of military work can also require frequent relocations for entire family units. Custody arrangements strive to minimize the amount of disruptions in a child’s life.

Divorce and Child Custody Modifications

It is natural to change your mind about a decision you made during your divorce. Military service further complicates the terms of divorce through inconsistent housing and frequent relocations. We understand the importance of flexibility, and our firm can help you modify the terms of your divorce or child custody arrangement.

FAQs

Q: How Much Does a Custody Lawyer Cost in Kentucky?

A: In Kentucky, the cost of a custody lawyer can vary due to the particular circumstances surrounding each case. Lawyer fees are often dependent on the amount of work required for the case. We acknowledge that no two families are exactly alike, and certain needs may arise within families that require more discussion. Child custody arrangements are one area where conflict can become intense.

Q: Do I Need a Lawyer to File for Custody in Kentucky?

A: No, you do not need a lawyer to file for custody in Cadiz and other areas of Kentucky. However, it can be beneficial to have an attorney who is knowledgeable about custody proceedings, negotiation, and in-court representation. Where military involvement is involved, your military branch may provide an attorney free of charge, but you can also hire private legal representation.

Q: Who Pays the Attorney Fees in a Divorce in Kentucky?

A: Typically, you are required to pay the fees for your attorney in Kentucky. However, for cases in which one spouse earns significantly more money than the other spouse, it is possible that the higher-earning spouse will be required to pay the attorney fees of the lower-earning spouse. Potential costs can be determined through a consultation before you commit to hiring an attorney.

Q: How Much Does an Uncontested Divorce Cost in Kentucky?

A: The cost of an uncontested divorce in Kentucky is dependent on several factors in your case. An uncontested divorce is often the least expensive form of divorce due to the lack of mediation and court trial necessary. While it is always beneficial to have legal counsel during divorce proceedings, filing an uncontested divorce reduces the number of legal processes in the case, which can save you money.

Contact a Cadiz, KY Family Lawyer Today

Family law issues can be emotionally taxing for all parties involved. It is important to remember that you are not alone. To discuss your family’s unique needs with a skilled Cadiz family attorney, schedule a consultation with Michael J. Thompson, Attorney at Law, today. We are ready to help you and your loved ones.