Divorce Lawyer Near Ionia

Divorce is extremely difficult, not only for the people going through it but for the entire family. Although the process is emotional, navigating the complicated legal process makes it an additional challenge people face. The more amicably a couple can move through the process, the faster and easier it can be for everyone. Sadly, this does not always happen. Even when a divorce case starts off fairly friendly, it can quickly turn contentious when the couple starts discussing certain terms of the divorce.

To make the process easier, individuals should work with a divorce lawyer near Ionia. An attorney will provide the answers to all of your questions, advise you of your legal options, and guide you through the process. When meeting with a divorce lawyer, below are some of the main issues they will discuss with you.

Child Custody and Support

Any time a couple has children together and they get a divorce, an Ionia family law judge will decide who should get child custody depending on what is in the child’s best interests. Parents can also reach an agreement on their own, as long as it is fair and beneficial to the child. 

While a judge will attempt to order an arrangement that allows the child to spend time with both parents, one will usually be awarded more time with the child than the other. The parent who spends less time with the child will receive visitation rights. In rare instances, such as when domestic violence is an issue, visitation time may not be possible.

In Michigan, all parents are considered financially responsible for their child, even when they are no longer part of a couple. The courts presume that the parent with the majority of custody time will provide for the food, clothing, and daily expenses of the child. The other parent is then usually responsible for paying a certain amount of child support to contribute to the payment of those costs.

Property Division

The division of property is another issue that arises in divorce and always has the potential to become very contentious. Only marital property, which includes assets and liabilities the couple acquired together during the marriage, is divided during a divorce in Michigan.

Equitable distribution laws govern property division in Ionia, as throughout the rest of the state. As such, property is divided according to what is fair, and not necessarily according to what is equal. The courts will take a number of factors into consideration when dividing property, including any accusations that one spouse was at fault for the breakdown of the marital relationship.

Our Ionia Divorce Lawyer Can Help with Your Case

It is never easy to move through the divorce process. At Van Den Heuvel Law Office, our divorce lawyer near Ionia will help you through the process so you obtain the full and fair settlement you deserve. Call us today or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation and to learn more about how we can help with your case.