Checkett & Pauly handles more than 10 different practice areas at our firm. Family law is one of our specialties. Our attorneys understand that family law cases can be very difficult and emotional for everyone involved. We work hard to listen, empower, and strengthen our clients during hard times.
We promise to be a supportive law firm when you’re going through this challenging transition. In today’s blog from Checkett, Pauly, Bay & Morgan, we outline the most common types of family law cases.
Marriage Dissolution
Marriage dissolution, commonly called divorce, is the most common type of family law matter we see at our firm. Simple divorces usually involve just two people: the spouses. More complicated cases get into the division of property, custody arrangements for children, and child support. We promise to make your marriage dissolution as simple as possible, even though everyone involved is going through a rough patch.
Protection Order Against Domestic Abuse
Anyone can petition a family court for a protection order against domestic violence. Victims of domestic abuse go before a judge, outline what’s happening to them, and the judge may order the abuser to stay away from the home, family, workplace, and more. There are limits to protection orders, and orders such as these still require diligence on the part of the victim. Family law attorneys at Checkett, Pauly, Bay & Morgan can discuss what a protection order means, exactly.
Paternity
Paternity cases in family law often arise when one parent seeks child support and financial assistance from the other parent. Either parent can file a petition to family court to determine paternity, or discover that someone isn’t a biological parent. After the court declares that someone is the biological parent, further proceedings can investigate any child support paid to the custodial parent, if any. Checkett, Pauly, Bay & Morgan can represent you in a paternity matter to help you get the support you need for raising your child.
Adoption
Adoption is a beautiful choice. You welcome a new child into your family and give them a wonderful life you can share together. Checkett, Pauly, Bay & Morgan’s family law experts help you wade through the paperwork, filings, fees, and background checks needed before legally adopting a child.
Guardian Ad Litem
Family law includes cases where someone is accused of child abuse. The court must appoint a guardian ad litem (GAL) in abuse cases. A guardian ad litem can be anyone (not necessarily an attorney) who represents the interests of the child in court as an impartial third party aside from the parents or legal guardians. A GAL may investigate police calls, investigations into allegations of abuse, and medical reports. Guardians ad litem can make recommendations to family court as to custody arrangements, parenting plans, and legal guardianship in the best interests of the child.
Family Law in Joplin, MO
Checkett, Pauly, Bay & Morgan handles all facets of family law, including divorce, division of assets, child custody, child support, and modifications of dissolution after the divorce is finalized. Our attorneys will handle your case delicately and discreetly. Contact Checkett, Pauly, Bay & Morgan or call (417) 358-4049 for more information.