Family Law
W henever you pass certain milestones in life, such as getting married or having children, you should consider contacting an attorney to ensure that your wishes are known in the event an emergency arises. In the absence of a Will which designates a Guardian for minor children, for instance, the State will appoint a Guardian. In today’s world of blended families, a lawyer’s expertise in estate planning can be invaluable in making sure that assets are passed consistent with the owner’s desires. Other family-related matters – divorce, establishing paternity, and working out custody, visitation and support arrangements – often call for the counsel of an attorney. The law firm of LaBelle, LaBelle & Naab, P.C. can help you assess your needs and navigate through the legal processes you may be facing.
Prenuptial (Antenuptial) Agreements – We prepare and review prenuptial agreements (also known as antenuptial agreements) before your marriage or remarriage to help you and your future spouse determine which assets will be included in the marital estate and which will remain separate. These agreements are common when couples have children from prior marriages so that a surviving spouse will be provided for after death while still allowing the deceased spouse’s children to inherit the separate assets.
Divorce (Dissolution of Marriage) – We represent plaintiffs and defendants in divorce cases, both contested (dispute over custody and visitation of children and/or financial dispute) and uncontested. An attorney can help you navigate the legal process and alleviate some of the emotional turmoil most couples face during this difficult process.
Restraining Orders – Obtaining civil restraining orders has become increasingly difficult. We can advise you of the standards necessary to obtain a restraining order. We will help you obtain a civil restraining order if your situation falls within the standards.
Remarriage Estate Planning – When remarrying, you may decide you need a prenuptial agreement to ensure the inheritance rights of your children from your prior marriage. You may also decide at this time to revise your Will, Living Will, and Powers of Attorney.
Paternity Cases – We represent either the mother or father in cases establishing paternity and establishing custody, visitation, and child support. Unwed fathers cannot enforce rights of custody, visitation and support without first establishing paternity. If paternity is not established at birth, unwed mothers must establish paternity in court in order to collect child support and set up a visitation schedule. We can help you determine what steps you need to take to secure your rights.
Custody & Visitation – We represent either the mother or father in contested custody and visitation cases, whether as part of your divorce case, paternity case, or post-judgment modification. In modification cases, the party requesting the change in custody must demonstrate a “substantial change in circumstances.” We can help you determine whether your case satisfies this requirement and handle the modification for you if it does satisfy this legal requirement.
Post-Divorce Estate Planning – After a divorce, you should consider revising your Will, Living Will, and Powers of Attorney. You must also change the title on your bank accounts, real estate, motor vehicles, and other assets previously held jointly with your spouse, as well as change the beneficiaries on your life insurance policies, pension and 401K accounts. Our firm can help you determine what steps you must take after your divorce to get your affairs in order.