Divorce is a difficult and stressful time, and the course and outcome of a divorce can have life-long implications for everyone involved. Especially contested divorces can have many implications that are hard to foresee in the moment. Our years of experience as divorce lawyers in Jefferson County and Ste. Genevieve County help you navigate your divorce with all the knowledge you need, and the legal help that protects your interests under the law.
Contested or Non-Contested Divorce
Even in a non-contested divorce, there are often agreements in place that can have far-reaching consequences. We help you understand the implications and can intervene when a non-contested divorce takes a sudden turn in the process.
In contested divorces, we will negotiate with the other party and represent your interests. This way, we will try to reach an agreement that is acceptable to both sides. If these negotiations fail, know that we will protect these interests under the law in trial. We can offer the same help and support if you’re trying to modify an existing divorce decree.
Child Custody Issues
Divorces where children are involved, are often more complicated. Reaching an agreement that truly is in the best interest of your children and honors your rights under Missouri law takes time and knowledge. Hiring a lawyer with considerable experience with child custody rights can make a big difference in this crucial time for everyone involved.
Spousal Maintenance
In many divorces, spousal maintenance (or alimony, as most people still call it) is a central discussion. Our experienced divorce attorneys help you determine whether you should request alimony, and if so, how much. We can also help you determine your rights so you don’t pay too much alimony. There are clear rules under the law about spousal maintenance, and our divorce attorneys in Festus and Ste. Genevieve can help you understand your rights and obligations.
Questions to Ask your Divorce Attorney
Before you hire an attorney for your case, you need to determine if they are a good fit for you. Remember that the answers you received are only as good as your questions. The following questions should give a good idea whether the attorney fits your needs.
Questions to ask your divorce attorney
- How many years and what type of experience do you have?
- How do I contact you in case of an emergency?
- Does the attorney have a flexible schedule?
- What is the general timeline for my case based on the facts I have presented?
- Can you make any type of predictions? What factors will the judge use to rule in my case?
- Can you guide me regarding financial situations that will occur based on this divorce?
- What are the hourly rates or is this a fix rate? Is a retainer required?
- What additional charges should I expect? For example, additional charges could be for expert witnesses or even office expenses.
- What is the estimated total cost of the divorce? This is a tough question that many attorneys will not answer. However, a reputable attorney can give you a typical range for your particular situation (assuming no surprises). Be mindful that an especially low price could be an underestimate.
- What can be done to keep costs down? For example, can there be tasks that I can do myself? Can I speak directly with my spouse?
It is important to note that the KEY to finding an attorney to match your needs is to research the particular attorney. Would you go out and buy a car without doing research? Suffice to say that choosing the right divorce attorney would require a good amount of research.