Divorce Lawyers Fort Wayne

Divorce is the last thing on your mind on your wedding day, but some couples may find themselves contemplating it over time when the marital relationship has deteriorated. Under Indiana’s statute on the dissolution of marriage, this is all spouses need to get a divorce. A party can claim an irretrievable breakdown of the marriage in the initial petition, making Indiana a no-fault state for divorce. However, aside from bringing a legal end to the marital relationship, there are many more complicated issues involved when going through the process.

You can rely on the Bellinger Law Office to protect your rights throughout the legal proceedings. We have in-depth knowledge of the law, along with extensive experience with divorce cases. Our attorneys will advise you during settlement discussions, but we are also ready to go to court as necessary. Please contact us to set up a case assessment with one of our divorce lawyers in Fort Wayne. You might also benefit from reviewing some background information on how the laws work.

Summary of Indiana Divorce Laws

No two cases are alike, but many share some common elements in terms of the legal arrangements when spouses divorce. You can expect to encounter one or more of the following issues:

• Property Division: Indiana follows the law of equitable distribution, in which marital assets are divided between the parties according to what is fair. Separate assets, those acquired before the marriage, gifts, and inheritances, belong to the respective spouse.
• Alimony: A court may award spousal support to balance the financial inequities between the parties. If appropriate, the judge will set the type, duration, and amount.
• Issues Related to Minor Children: Parents have rights and responsibilities to children regardless of the fact that they are ending their marriage. Child custody, i.e., decision-making authority, is usually shared between the parents. The non-residential parent will have visitation rights and typically pay child support.

Legal Help Resolving Divorce Issues

The details described above are how the laws work if the court has to make a decision. However, the parties are encouraged to agree on these issues, giving you control over crafting suitable solutions. Any disputes will be ordered to mediation, an informal proceeding in which the parties sit down with a mediator to work toward an agreement. Our divorce attorneys in Fort Wayne will advise you during negotiations, and we will be at your side during mediation.

Other disagreements must go to a contested hearing, which is a trial on the merits. The Bellinger Law Office will represent you during the pretrial conferences and conduct discovery. On the hearing date, we will present evidence, testimony, and arguments to support your position.

Our Divorce Lawyers in Fort Wayne Will be at Your Side

The Bellinger Law Office is prepared to tackle these and many other tasks as we guide you through the divorce process. To learn more about our legal services, please contact our firm today. We can schedule a consultation with an Indiana divorce attorney who will review your circumstances and explain the next steps.