Frequently Asked Questions About Divorce And Family Law
If you are considering divorce or working through a divorce, you probably have several questions about the process, timeline and expenses. Although it’s only possible to provide basic answers here, the most accurate answers will be from a lawyer who knows your situation. When you contact the Twin Cities law office of Hill Crabb, LLC, we will take the time to listen to your goals and concerns, and then we can provide the detailed answers you need.
How Much Does It Cost To Get Divorced?
The cost of a divorce is determined by several factors, including the amount of time it takes to reach agreements and how often you go to court. Some couples spend a few hundred dollars and do virtually everything on their own. Other couples fight about every aspect of the divorce and may spend tens of thousands of dollars to have their lawyers battle every detail. After our Edina divorce attorneys learn the specifics of your situation, we can provide a more accurate estimate.
How Long Does The Minnesota Divorce Process Take?
One of the biggest factors in determining how long it takes to work through the divorce process in Minnesota is how well the parties are able to work together. Parties who agree on most aspects of their divorce may be able to move through the process in a matter of weeks. Individuals who need help creating parenting plans or valuating assets, and parties that are unable to agree on anything may spend months or years working toward a final resolution.
Should I Delete My Facebook Account?
When working through divorce, it’s important to remember that everything you put online could be used against you by a vindictive spouse. If you are involved in a child custody dispute, be smart about the things you post online and consider how those things could reflect on you.
Is Divorce The Answer?
Couples who reach the point of considering separation or divorce often do so with heavy hearts and mixed emotions. They may feel helpless, defeated, indifferent or angry over what seem to be insurmountable problems within the marriage.
Divorce is not a cure for conflict in every circumstance, especially if children are involved. Even under the best of circumstances, co-parenting after a divorce brings with it a whole new set of issues around which conflicts can arise. Many couples consider marital mediation before moving forward with divorce.
Is There Common-Law Marriage In Minnesota?
In short, the answer is no. Common-law marriage in Minnesota is not recognized legally. However, if the couple has resided in a state that does recognize common law marriages and established their marriage there, then the Minnesota courts will recognize that marriage as valid.
However, it is still possible to protect the legal rights of unmarried couples. Any legally binding contractual agreements between unmarried couples can still be enforced by the civil court system. Also, it’s important to note that unmarried parents still have custodial rights and child support rights.
How Is Spousal Maintenance Calculated In Minnesota?
The court will consider several factors when assessing a spouse’s rights to maintenance. The key factors included in the decision-making process include:
- The length of the marriage
- The standard of living during the marriage
- The ability of each spouse to work
- The income or earning capacity of both spouses
- The monthly expenditure of each spouse
For the court to make a determination, they will need access to accurate information that reflects the financial situation of both spouses.
What Does A Family Law Attorney Do?
A family law attorney can help assert your legal rights at each stage of your relationship. This includes setting up prenuptial agreements before the marriage or postnuptial agreements once you are married. A family law attorney can also protect your rights during a divorce. They can prepare all the relevant paperwork and ensure you receive a fair divorce settlement.
If you are a parent, a family law attorney can help you assert your custodial rights. They will navigate the legal process to reach agreements that are in the best interests of your child. The importance of having a family lawyer behind you on any matter related to family law cannot be overstated.
How Do I Get Started?
If you are interested in learning more about your rights and options, contact Hill Crabb, LLC, to schedule a consultation. We represent individuals in Edina, the Minneapolis/St. Paul area and throughout Minnesota in divorce and family law matters. Our firm can be reached through an online contact form or by calling 612-568-5967.