Divorce can be an emotionally charged and challenging process, and you may feel overwhelmed and uncertain about how to protect your interests if your marriage is at an end. As taking proactive steps to avoid an unfair settlement is essential, it’s important to seek...
Family Law
Do I need a restraining order as part of my divorce process?
The matter of whether a restraining order is needed as part of your divorce proceedings depends on the specific circumstances of your situation. Restraining orders can help establish legal boundaries and provide a sense of security during the divorce process and...
How is spousal support determined in West Virginia?
Some people stay in unhappy marriages for financial reasons. They worry they will have no way to support themselves if they are on their own. Therefore, it's essential for anyone considering divorce to understand how the court determines the amount of spousal support...
Are you headed for a January divorce?
As the year ends and a new one unfolds, many individuals find themselves contemplating major life changes. Besides kicking bad habits and setting New Year’s resolutions, many couples also choose to file for divorce in January. In fact, January is often referred to as...
When can you modify child support agreements?
Child support arrangements help ensure the welfare of children in separated or divorced families. Understanding when and how to modify these agreements is paramount, considering the evolving needs and circumstances of parents and children. Filing a petition with the...
Things you should avoid doing during divorce
Divorce can be one of life’s most challenging and emotionally draining experiences. It is a time when emotions run high, and decision-making becomes even more crucial. While it may be tempting to act on impulse or seek revenge, it is essential to approach your divorce...
Can I get full custody of the dog in a divorce?
In West Virginia and other states, some couples treat their treasured pets as children and, during a divorce, can dispute who keeps the dog and whether they should have visitation or custody rights. The law is still evolving to address this situation, and most courts...
Why marriages come to an end
You may have heard that the divorce rate in the United States is roughly 50%. However, the truth is that there are a lot of factors that determine your likelihood of getting a divorce such as your age or whether you are getting married for the first or second time....
Can child support arrears be discharged in a bankruptcy?
Fewer than half of the custodial parents in West Virginia and around the country receive the correct amount of child support each month. Noncustodial parents who fall behind on their child support payments can be denied driver’s licenses and have their wages...
What happens to your pension after divorce
West Virginia residents face many difficult financial decisions during the divorce process. One of those decisions is how to handle retirement plans, like a 401K or pension. This joint asset can be particularly difficult to divide between spouses. Joint asset In a...