South Bend Divorce Lawyer

At a difficult time in life, get the compassionate legal help that you can trust. At Longstreet Law LLC, I will listen to your concerns and work with you to pursue a resolution for your divorce. In addition to finalizing your dissolution, you may need spousal support to transition to your new life. I will inform you of your options and strategize with you to further your interests.

What Are The Steps To The Divorce Process In Indiana?

Divorce proceedings can feel incredibly daunting, but understanding the basic steps can help you feel more in control. The process generally follows these stages:

• Filing: The process begins with filing a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage and having your spouse formally served with the paperwork.
• Discovery: During the waiting period, both parties engage in discovery, which involves the exchange of financial information and other relevant documents.
• Negotiation or mediation: I work to resolve all outstanding issues, such as asset division, child custody and child support, through negotiation or a formal mediation session.
• Litigation: If an agreement cannot be reached, your divorce will proceed to a final hearing before a judge who will make decisions on all outstanding issues.
• Final decree: Once an agreement or ruling is reached, a judge will sign the final decree, which formally dissolves the marriage.

This process can feel overwhelming, but I will be there to guide you through each step, ensuring you feel confident in your choices.

How Are Contested And Uncontested Divorce Different?

An uncontested divorce is when you and your spouse agree on all major issues, including property division, child custody and support. This allows me to submit a settlement agreement, a much faster and more cost-effective process. A contested divorce, however, means you cannot agree. This requires more extensive negotiation and may even proceed to litigation. Regardless of the path, I will fight for a fair outcome for you and your family.

Cooling Off Period For Indiana Divorces

After you have filed for the dissolution of your marriage and your ex has been served with the paperwork, Indiana requires a 60-day waiting period before any other part of the divorce can proceed. This is designed to discourage divorces filed in the heat of anger and make sure all parties are sure that divorce is the right answer for their family law conflicts.

Addressing Family Concerns

Are there children in the family? I know that their needs are of utmost importance in divorce agreement negotiations. Caring for children and their futures is a responsibility that requires:

• Child custody
• Parenting time plans
• Child support agreements

Further Support For Older Children

Post-secondary educational support arrangements are another way to provide for children into the future. Whether finalized during the divorce or negotiated later as part of a support modification, this type of educational allowance can be a useful subsidy to further your children’s upcoming opportunities.

Property Division

Determining an equitable division of the property that you acquired with your spouse during the marriage is the other major goal of divorce. I can help you protect your most precious assets and ensure the distribution of property is fair.

Modification

Post-decree changes of circumstances often necessitate legal modifications to accommodate changes such as relocation of a parent and shifting needs of the children as they grow older. I can craft your modification to reflect your changing needs.

Does It Matter Who Files First For Divorce In Indiana?

The first person to file is the petitioner. Legally, it generally does not have a significant impact on the final outcome of your divorce, such as the division of assets or child custody. However, the petitioner does control the initial filing date. I will discuss the pros and cons of filing first together to create the right strategy for your unique situation.

Why Hire An Indiana Divorce Attorney From Longstreet Law LLC?

I am attorney Laura Longstreet, a Hoosier native, and I take pride in providing high-quality legal representation at a reasonable price. My commitment to you is reflected in the factors that set my approach apart:

• Personalized strategies: I offer personalized legal strategies, not a one-size-fits-all approach. I listen to your unique story and goals to craft a plan tailored to your needs.
• Over a decade of legal experience: My experience in family law means I have a deep understanding of Indiana statutes and can navigate even complex cases.
• Compassionate and inclusive representation: I am committed to providing compassionate and inclusive legal representation for traditional and LGBTQ+ couples and families.
• Clear and honest communication: I believe in clear, transparent communication. You will always know what is happening with your case, what your options are and what to expect next.
• Efficient resolution: My focus is on efficient and effective resolution. While I am prepared to litigate fiercely when necessary, I prioritize negotiation and mediation to save you time, money and emotional stress.

My comprehensive approach ensures your needs are met and your best interests are protected every step of the divorce process. I can give straightforward guidance and advocate for your rights.

Let Me Know How I Can Help

You do not have to be overwhelmed with legal matters related to your divorce or other family law issue. I am here to help. Give Longstreet Law LLC a call at 574-208-5982 to schedule a consultation or reach me online with this contact form. I can serve couples and families in both South Bend and Indianapolis.