FAMILY LAW

Family law is that part of the law dealing with marriage, divorce, adoption, child custody and support and other Domestic Relations issues.

Originally the family was limited to the spouses and their children, but recently the concept was enlarged to comprehend less formal personal relationships.

Family law is the most difficult aspect of our practice. Just the drafting of a pre- matrimonial or separation agreement can be difficult both for our client and his or her future or present spouse. Divorce or separations can be extremely difficult and confrontational.

We take care not to act as simply an attorney but as a counselor in these issues when a client comes to us seeking a divorce. We may also want to discuss his or her options. We will always act in your best interests. If you want to discuss your situation we will help.

The Moreira Law Firm provides the following Family Law services:

• Adoptions
• Prenuptial and Separation Agreements
• Divorce, Maintenance and Distribution of Marital Assets
• Child Support and Visitation

DIVORCE

Divorce is the legal dissolution of a marriage by a Court of Law.

In order to terminate a marriage, other than by death or annulment, either or both spouses must go through a judicial process called divorce.

Before any divorce is finalized by a court of law, the party must address the following issues:

• Which party will have custody of the children.
• Whether one party will keep the marital home or whether it will be sold.
• Which party will be responsible for the marital debts.
• How to divide the personal property.
• Whether either party will be entitled to spousal support (maintenance/alimony)
• Whether one party will be required to maintain life insurance policies for the other.
• Which party shall be responsible for the children’s medical insurance.
• Which party shall be responsible for the children’s college expenses.
• Which party shall be responsible for unpaid income taxes.
• And all other matters.

The actual divorce procedure can either be very quick or very long. Commonly if there are children and assets to divide it will take longer. An uncontested divorce with no children or assets can be completed in a few months. More complicated divorces may take a year or longer to finalize.

If you would like us to handle your divorce, we will make sure you obtain from your spouse all that you are entitled to get.