EXTRAORDINARY TEAM OF PASSIONATE & COMPASSIONATE ATTORNEYS
Dealing with legal matters can be a time-consuming and emotional affair, even more so when it involves a person’s family and loved ones. While most cases in other legal practices can be approached with strictly objective and surgical methods, family law deals with legal problems that require balancing objectivity and empathy. Family law practitioners are required to fulfill many roles in assisting families in navigating some of the most emotionally demanding times of their lives.
Aside from being skilled legal representatives, experienced family lawyers also need to be advocates and confidants in helping families through complicated legal processes. At the Connecticut Family Law Group, our team of qualified Greenwich divorce and family law attorneys share a compassionate and logical approach to divorce and family law.
We work diligently to help families understand their rights and the consequences of their legal actions and make informed decisions that align with their goals. We can assist in modifying post-divorce orders such as alimony or child support payments, help negotiate and create prenuptial agreements, and more. For more information on how we can help you, schedule a consultation today by calling (203) 601-6437.
For more information on how we can help you
Top-Rated Greenwich, CT Attorneys Explain the Definition of Family Law
Family law is an area of the legal system that deals with issues related to couples, families, and other domestic relationships. It encompasses various legal matters that impact individuals and families, such as marriage, divorce, child custody, child support, alimony, adoption, and domestic violence. In addition to the traditional family law concerns, family law practitioners in Greenwich, Connecticut, may also assist clients with issues involving prenuptial and postnuptial agreements, paternity disputes, the emancipation of minors, grandparents' rights, and guardianships.
While having a lawyer is not a strict requirement, family law in Greenwich, Connecticut is governed by state statutes and court decisions, as well as relevant federal laws. Working with an attorney can provide many benefits, the most important being helping individuals understand their rights and responsibilities under the law. Often, legal cases do not strictly require court intervention but the mediation of a skilled attorney who is experienced in mediation procedures.
Experienced family law attorneys need to have a clear grasp of the law and maintain an attentive and collaborative mindset. At Connecticut Family Law Group, our dedicated family lawyers assist clients in reaching sustainable solutions for their legal problems. Schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys today by calling (203) 601-6437.
Are you in need of professional legal help?
Don't hesitate to contact McConnell Family Law. We have helped many people in the same situations that you may be in. We take every individual circumstance very seriously and promise to contact you very quickly. We understand that no two cases are the same. We have offices in Hartford, New Haven, and Fairfield Counties as well as have the ability to schedule one on one consultations in our satellite offices.
Call Now (203) 344-7762Family Law Practice Areas
Family law covers several different areas, each addressing specific legal issues related to families and domestic relationships. These include but are not limited to, the following:
Marriage and Civil Unions
Connecticut law governs the requirements and processes for entering into a legal marriage, including age requirements, fees, and licenses. Additionally, the state also recognizes same-sex marriages and civil unions. A family law attorney can help couples understand their rights and obligations within a marriage or civil union, as well as draft prenuptial or postnuptial agreements to protect individual assets and interests.
Divorce and Legal Separation
Legal separation and divorce are two separate processes in Greenwich, Connecticut. Legal separation allows couples to live separately and make financial arrangements without officially dissolving the marriage. Divorce, on the other hand, is the final and legal dissolution of the marriage. Couples seeking a divorce or legal separation may need assistance from a family law attorney with matters such as the division of assets, determination of alimony, and relocation issues.
Child Custody and Visitation
Child custody and visitation are often contentious issues in family law cases. Connecticut courts aim to make decisions in the best interest of the child, considering factors like the child's emotional and developmental needs, each parent's ability to care for the child, and the child's preference if they are of a certain age. A family law attorney can help clients navigate the complex child custody and visitation process, advocating on their behalf to achieve the most favorable outcome in their cases.
Child Support
In Greenwich, Connecticut, both parents are responsible for the financial support of their children. The state uses specific guidelines to determine child support based on the combined income of both parents, the number of children, and other factors such as custody arrangements and any special needs. A family law attorney can help clients understand their obligations and rights related to child support, modify existing orders, or enforce payment when necessary.
Alimony and Spousal Support
Alimony or spousal support is a payment from one spouse to another following a divorce or legal separation. The purpose of alimony is to help the receiving spouse maintain a standard of living that is similar to what they experienced during the marriage. Connecticut courts consider factors such as the duration of the marriage, each spouse's earning capacity, and the needs of any dependent children when determining alimony awards. A family law attorney can assist clients in negotiating, modifying, or enforcing spousal support agreements.
Domestic Violence and Protective Orders
Domestic violence is a serious issue that can impact individuals and families. Connecticut has specific laws in place to protect victims of domestic violence, including the issuance of restraining orders and protective orders. Family law attorneys can help clients understand their rights and options when dealing with domestic violence, as well as representing them in court hearings to pursue protective measures.
Common Legal Procedures in Greenwich, Connecticut Family Law Cases
Family law practitioners in Greenwich, CT can assist in a variety of different cases. At Connecticut Family Law Group, our attorneys can provide assistance in the following areas of family law, among others. To learn more about our services, call us today to schedule a consultation at (203) 601-6437.
Filing for Divorce or Legal Separation
In Connecticut, married couples have the option of filing for a divorce or a legal separation when they feel that the relationship has run its course and wish to live independently of one another.
Connecticut is a no-fault divorce state, meaning that a spouse does not have to prove the other spouse did something wrong in order to file for divorce. Instead, in a no-fault divorce, the filing spouse must only show that the marriage has “broken down irretrievably.” Fault may be considered as a factor by the court when determining the equitable division of the marital estate and/or alimony. With regard to fault, Connecticut recognizes the following grounds:
- Adultery
- Fraudulent contract
- Willful desertion or abandonment for at least a year with total neglect of duty
- Absence from the marriage for at least seven years without any communication
- Habitual intemperance – substance (drug or alcohol) abuse
- Intolerable cruelty
- Imprisonment (under certain conditions)
- Mental illness (under certain conditions, including legal confinement to a psychiatric institution for at least five years)
For a conversion divorce or a divorce initiated through a legal separation, a couple must have been separated for 18 months.
To file for divorce or legal separation in Greenwich, you must meet the following residency requirements:
- Either spouse must have been a Connecticut resident for at least 12 months preceding the date of divorce, or
- The marriage was performed in Connecticut and one spouse has resided in the state continuously since the marriage ceremony
The process for obtaining a divorce in the state differs depending on whether it is a contested or uncontested divorce and whether the couple shares any children. In general, the process begins by obtaining the required court forms, including the Summons, Complaint, and Notice of Automatic Orders. These forms must be completed and filed with the Superior Court clerk in the judicial district where either spouse resides. The filing spouse must then serve the other spouse with the divorce papers by certified mail or through a state marshal. From there, the parties must attend court hearings, mediations, and negotiations, while working with their attorneys to resolve issues such as the division of property, alimony, and child custody.
Contesting Child Custody or Visitation
Contesting child custody or visitation may happen during the divorce process or after the final judgment. Family courts always prioritize the best interests of the child when determining custody and visitation arrangements. Factors considered include the child’s emotional and physical needs, the parent’s ability to meet those needs, and the historical relationship between the child and each parent.
If a parent disagrees with the court’s custody or visitation decision or has concerns about the other parent’s ability to care for the child, they can petition the court for a modification. This requires presenting evidence demonstrating a change in circumstances that justifies revisiting the existing custody or visitation arrangement. The process may involve mediation or a contested hearing, in which both parents have the opportunity to present their case.
Requesting or Modifying Alimony
Alimony, also known as spousal support, is a financial obligation that one spouse may be required to pay the other during or after a divorce. Alimony is intended to provide financial stability for the spouse that may be in a lesser financial position due to the marriage. Factors considered by the court to determine alimony include the length of the marriage, the earning capacity of each spouse, and the standard of living established during the marriage.
To request or modify alimony in Greenwich, the spouse seeking support must submit a motion to the court. This can be done during the divorce process, or after the divorce has been finalized if there has been a significant change in circumstances. The court will then review the financial information and evidence presented by both parties before making a determination or a divorce judgment.
Obtaining a Protective Order
In Greenwich, Connecticut, victims of domestic violence or abuse can seek a protective order from the court to ensure their safety. A protective order is a legal document that prohibits the abuser from engaging in certain behaviors, such as contacting the victim, coming to their home or workplace, or possessing firearms. Types of protective orders in Connecticut include temporary restraining orders, civil restraining orders, criminal protective orders, and family violence protective orders. To obtain a protective order, the victim must complete an application and present their case to a judge, who will determine if there is sufficient evidence to issue the order.
Why Having a Skilled Greenwich Family Law Attorney is Essential
Having an attorney is not strictly required when dealing with some family cases in Connecticut. However, with an experienced lawyer on your side, you may be able to avoid a great deal of the financial as well as emotional stress involved. Retaining the services of an attorney can also provide the following benefits:
Effective Negotiation Skills
Family law matters often involve emotionally charged disputes where both parties may feel deeply hurt and invested in “winning” the case. In these situations, it is essential to have a strong advocate who can effectively negotiate on your behalf, alleviating some of the stress and tension associated with the legal process.
Whether it is reaching a fair divorce settlement agreement or negotiating custody arrangements, the negotiation process is often lengthy and challenging. However, a skilled family law attorney prioritizes achieving the most favorable outcome possible for their client while keeping the lines of communication open between both parties.
Protection of Client's Rights
Hiring an experienced attorney can also ensure that your rights and interests are protected throughout the legal process. An attorney can be your advocate, providing you with the information, advice, and guidance needed to make informed decisions that align with your needs and desires.
Family law matters have lasting impacts on the lives of all involved, including children, finances, and overall well-being. It is crucial to have an attorney who understands the importance of protecting your rights and fighting for what is in your best interest. Hiring a knowledgeable and experienced attorney can help to ensure that your rights are not overlooked or violated during legal proceedings.
Comprehensive Legal Representation
Family law attorneys provide comprehensive legal representation from the beginning of your case until the very end. They can help you navigate through the complex legal processes, ensuring that all necessary paperwork is filed correctly and in a timely manner. Your attorney can also work on your behalf to gather evidence, create and present a compelling case, and attend all court hearings and mediation sessions.
Additionally, a family law attorney can assist in handling post-judgment issues, such as modifications to custody, visitation, or support orders, and can also provide guidance in enforcing existing orders or representing you in any appeals process, should your case require further action.
Guidance and Support
Family law matters can be emotionally and mentally draining on all parties involved. By hiring a skilled Greenwich family law attorney, you receive the guidance and support needed during this challenging time. A compassionate attorney can listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and provide you with realistic expectations and possible outcomes for your case.
A dedicated family law attorney can also offer emotional support, acting as a sounding board for your thoughts and emotions during the process. They understand the difficult nature of these cases and can provide reassurance that someone is standing by your side passionately advocating for your best interests.
Working with a Greenwich Connecticut Family Law Attorney
Hiring a Greenwich divorce and family law attorney can provide you with a legal professional who is experienced and knowledgeable in the aspects of family law. At Connecticut Family Law Group, our team of attorneys has dedicated their careers to understanding the nuances of family law and can provide you with the quality legal advice and guidance you need during a difficult time.
Our attorneys have a deep understanding of state and local laws governing family matters and can help you navigate through these intricacies to ensure you receive the best possible outcome in your case. We provide aggressive yet compassionate legal representation in and out of court to protect our clients’ best interests. Contact us through our website or call our Greenwich office at (203) 601-6437 to schedule a consultation.