Divorce has changed in recent decades as society has changed. Women have greater economic power and opportunity than ever and men participate more than ever in the raising of their children. The concept of father’s rights has emerged. Mothers today no longer automatically receive custody as they did a generation ago. If custody is at issue, the court determines the matter based upon the best interests of the child. The law is gender-neutral. Each parent is equally eligible for custody consideration.
Changes such as these make it important for you to be clear about your divorce objectives. At Gump Law we educate clients about all their options and possibilities so you can seek what is right for you and your children.
Divorce is Much More Than Just a Dissolution of Marriage
Divorce is usually more than determining that you are no longer married. Some of the issues that come up in divorce proceedings include:
- Children issues: Matters related to children include custody, visitation and child support.
- Money issues: It is the goal of the Court to sever the economic ties between the parties. Property and debt will be divided and the spousal support (alimony) addressed, if appropriate.
- Settlement: Most divorces are resolved by agreement. Once the financial and other facts are known and the law applied, a fairly predicted and anticipated outcome at trial will form the basis of the settlement. The best way to secure a settlement is to prepare for trial. Negotiations and mediation are common tools in arriving at resolution.
- Trial: If the parties cannot agree, an independent third party — the judge — will hear the testimony, consider the evidence, apply the law and enter a judgment.