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Divorce
need not be an interminable or hostile process. We emphasize speed
and simplicity by intensive preparation before any pleadings are
filed. We try not to initiate controversy but will respond with all
appropriate measures that are necessary.
Child custody may be the most contentious
issue. Written parenting plans are now required in most cases.
Whitney Durand was a principal author of the parenting plan used
throughout Tennessee.
Child support
is set by a computer calculation required by judges. Our first task
is to determine the right information for the calculation: both
parents' income, the number of days a child will spend with each
parent during the entire year, medical and child care expenses, and
obligations to children of other marriages.
Alimony is of four types in Tennessee. We
focus on the essential matters: the need of one spouse and the
ability of the other spouse to pay.
Orders of protection are used when domestic
violence is proven. These are especially important and difficult
cases, and judges appreciate the assistance that lawyers can
provide.
Pensions often necessitate special orders
called Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs) in federal tax
law. We prepare them in understandable form rather than the
technical language often used.
Division of assets necessitates our knowing the intricacies of
property law as well as family law.
Locating hidden assets
involves our following paper and electronic
trails to their conclusion. Electronic tools are inexpensive and
useful. When they are insufficient, we engage investigators to
assist us.
Valuation disputes require not just our hiring financial experts but
a knowledge of the techniques they use.
Mediation has been a
satisfying addition to the legal process. A mediator helps to
resolve disputes before they get to the courtroom. Judges usually
require mediation.
When
Juvenile Court proceedings escalate so that clients are fearful
of representing themselves, we step in.
Modification of final decrees occurs because people and
circumstances change. A divorce decree is often revised at a later
date. We assist clients so that court orders fit new situations.
You can expect . . .
·Phone
calls to be returned promptly
·Counsel
from the author of publications about family law
·Streamlined
preparation of documents
·Vigorous
negotiations or hostility-free discussions
(whichever the client prefers and the case warrants)
·Thoughtful
preparation for mediation
·Careful
presentation if your case goes to trial
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