Divorce

Salem Divorce Attorney Child Custody, Child Support

Everyone knows someone who has been divorced despite their best of intentions at the time of marriage. Especially when there are children involved, the ramifications of divorce go on for many years and affect families in many ways. In-law relationships, inheritances, property rights and real estate matters are a few of the issues which divorce can affect.

If you have reached the conclusion that divorce is the most reasonable solution to your marital strife and discord, contact an experienced divorce lawyer as soon as possible. Learn how you can position yourself to emerge from the marriage in as strong position and a positive future.

Divorce, Children and Extended Family Dynamics

Divorce is a complex legal process that involves much more than physical separation from a wife or husband. Family dynamics invariably change as well: children of the divorcing parents will likely have different amounts of contact with aunts and uncles, grandparents and other family members as a result of their parents' separation.

Child custody and child support must always be determined in a divorce when there are minor children of the marriage. When one parent remarries, stepparent adoption may eliminate those obligations on the part of a noncustodial biological parent.

Property Division, Pensions, Alimony, Real Estate and Business Valuation

Because two individuals become a family unit through marriage, there are many financial and property-related considerations that come into play when a marriage ends. Division of marital assets usually involves real estate, business valuation, pensions, IRAs and 401Ks, and other things of value.

The period of marriage is referred to as the "period of coverture" for financial instruments such as retirement plans. A short-term marriage may not require division of retirement accounts or orders for temporary or permanent spousal support (also know as rehabilitative or ongoing alimony). Marriages that have lasted 10 years or more are more likely to involve such complex financial considerations.

Prepared to Advocate Vigorously on Clients' Behalf

As a career family law lawyer and trial attorney, Thomas J. Barrett is well acquainted with tax-advantaged means to settle the division of property during a divorce. For example, both parties may benefit by an agreement to require alimony from the primary wage earner in lieu of a division of real estate, which could trigger tax liabilities. Division of former marital property should be evaluated for possible tax consequences.

Contact divorce lawyer Thomas J. Barrett by phone or e-mail to schedule a consultation about divorce personalized to your needs. You will be able to discuss specific issues like mediation, settlement negotiations and temporary support during the divorce; or enforcement of support when a paying spouse or parent has fallen behind on alimony or child support payments.