Common questions about family law and bankruptcy. These answers are general information only and are not legal advice for a specific matter.
Family Law FAQs
- What issues does family law include?
Family law can include divorce, parenting time, decision-making responsibilities, child support, maintenance, orders of protection, and post-decree issues. - Do I need a lawyer before filing for divorce?
It is usually wise to speak with an attorney before filing so you understand the process, likely issues, and documents you may need. - What should I bring to a family law consultation?
Bring court papers, prior orders, financial records, pay information, parenting schedules, and any written agreements or communications that may help explain the situation. - How are parenting time and parental responsibilities handled?
The court focuses on the child’s best interests and may consider each parent’s involvement, stability, communication, and ability to meet the child’s needs. - Can child support be changed later?
Child support may be modified when there is a qualifying change in circumstances or another legal basis for review. - What is maintenance?
Maintenance, sometimes called spousal support, is financial support from one spouse to another when the facts and law support it. - What if there is already a court order?
Post-decree issues can include enforcement, modification, parenting disputes, support changes, and other problems that arise after judgment. - Can the firm help with orders of protection?
Yes. Orders of protection can involve urgent safety concerns, family relationships, parenting issues, and court appearances. - Will my case have to go to trial?
Many family law cases resolve by agreement, but some require hearings or trial when the parties cannot resolve disputed issues. - Are initial consultations free?
The firm offers a free initial phone consultation.
Bankruptcy FAQs
- What is bankruptcy designed to do?
Bankruptcy is designed to help eligible people address debt through a legal process that may discharge, reorganize, or manage certain debts. - What is the difference between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13?
Chapter 7 is generally a liquidation/discharge process, while Chapter 13 involves a repayment plan over time. The right option depends on income, assets, debts, and goals. - Can bankruptcy stop wage garnishment?
In many cases, filing bankruptcy creates an automatic stay that can stop wage garnishment while the case is pending. - Can bankruptcy help with foreclosure?
Bankruptcy may help pause foreclosure activity and, in some Chapter 13 cases, create a path to catch up on missed mortgage payments. - Will bankruptcy eliminate every debt?
No. Some debts may not be discharged, including certain taxes, support obligations, student loans in most cases, and debts arising from certain misconduct. - Will I lose everything if I file bankruptcy?
Not necessarily. Exemptions may protect certain property, but the answer depends on the facts and the type of bankruptcy. - How often can someone file bankruptcy?
Timing rules apply and depend on the chapter previously filed, whether a discharge was received, and the chapter being considered now. - What should I bring to a bankruptcy consultation?
Bring pay information, tax returns, debt notices, lawsuit or garnishment papers, mortgage or vehicle information, and a general list of assets and debts. - Does filing bankruptcy stop creditor calls?
The automatic stay generally requires most creditors to stop collection contact after a bankruptcy case is filed. - Are initial consultations free?
The firm offers a free initial phone consultation.