Baldwin County Legal Blog

Divorce does not have to be contentious

On behalf of Joseph Allan Shaw, P.C. on Tuesday, November 13, 2018.

As Alabama readers know, divorce is a complex and emotionally challenging process. It can be difficult to navigate the issues involved with ending a marriage, and sometimes, the stress can lead to disputes and costly litigation. Fortunately, there may be a better way for you and your spouse to approach this process.

Many couples want to reduce the complications associated with divorce, and one way to do this is by exploring the possibility of mediation. This option will allow you to make your divorce process a bit easier, giving you more say over the terms of your final order. Before you make any important decisions regarding your future, it may be worthwhile to consider this option.

Is it possible to change my child support order in Alabama?

On behalf of Joseph Allan Shaw, P.C. on Monday, August 20, 2018.

Divorce is a complex process, and it will have a significant toll on your finances for years to come. Some Alabama parents may find their financial circumstances remain inconsistent even after their divorce is final, and some may no longer be able to manage their financial obligations. This could apply to a parent's ability to pay child support.

Child support includes payments made to the primary custodian of the child in order to help pay for his or her daily needs. However, a parent may not be able to make these payments each month through no fault of his or her own. In these cases, it may be appropriate to take the legal steps necessary to modify the existing support order.

What should you know about parental visitation and your rights?

On behalf of Joseph Allan Shaw, P.C. on Thursday, May 24, 2018.

As an Alabama parent, you likely have serious concerns regarding how the end of your marriage will affect your time with your children. Child custody and visitation matters can be quite contentious and emotionally difficult, but there are steps you can take to protect yourself and your parental rights.

One thing you can do is to prepare for the process ahead by educating yourself on your options and taking time to understand more about your right to visitation and regular access to your kids. As a biological parent, you have the right to maintain strong relationships with your kids even after your divorce is final.

Types of child custody and which is best for your family

On behalf of Joseph Allan Shaw, P.C. posted in blog on Friday, February 23, 2018.

If you and your spouse decided to move forward with a divorce, you know there are many complicated issues you will both have to address. In addition to property division and other financial matters, you will also have to either negotiate a custody agreement or allow the court to decide.

Regardless of the specific custody agreement that works best for your Alabama family, it is beneficial to understand the types of child custody. With this understanding, you can move forward with your pursuit of a custody order that will allow your family to have a stable and secure future, even after a divorce is final. The decisions you make during divorce will have an impact for years to come, and thoughtful consideration of your options is prudent.

Are you facing high risks in your high-asset divorce?

On behalf of Joseph Allan Shaw, P.C. posted in Divorce on Saturday, November 25, 2017.

Alabama readers know that divorce is difficult, but it can be especially complex where there are valuable assets and significant money at stake. A high-asset divorce is almost always more complicated than other types of divorces, and in many cases, the two parties are unable to see eye-to-eye about property division and distribution of marital property.

If you are facing the prospect of a high-asset divorce, you know that there is much on the line. You may feel that your financial future is in jeopardy, but there are certain things you can do to protect your interests and pursue a settlement that is beneficial and allows you to have a strong future.

Mediation and a better child custody order for your family

On behalf of Joseph Allan Shaw, P.C. posted in blog on Friday, August 25, 2017.

Alabama parents know that divorce can be a difficult time for their children, which is why many of them look for ways to ease the stress and complications related to this major life transition. One of the ways to do this is by working together on a child custody order, and for some, mediation is a way to reach this goal.

If you made the decision to divorce, you may consider the benefits of mediation, particularly as they relate to child custody. This is a way for you to avoid the courtroom and stay around the negotiating table, ultimately reaching a custody and visitation schedule that works for every member of the family.

Take steps to protect your business in the event of divorce

On behalf of Joseph Allan Shaw, P.C. posted in Divorce on Wednesday, May 24, 2017.

If you are one of the many Alabama residents who owns a business, chances are you want to do everything in your power to protect it from harm. This not only means that you need to take steps to shield it against potential litigation, you also need to shelter it from any fallout that may accompany changes in your personal life -- such as getting a divorce.

As Alabama is an equitable distribution state, each spouse should walk away from the union having achieved a fair division of assets. Your business may be your biggest asset, and it may be subject to division, which could spell trouble for your bottom line.

How can you protect your assets in a divorce?

On behalf of Joseph Allan Shaw, P.C. posted in Divorce on Tuesday, March 28, 2017.

Financial matters are some of the most complicated aspects of a divorce and the cause of many divorce-related disputes. If you have concerns about protecting property, retaining valuable assets or potential hidden assets, you need the help of an experienced attorney in order to navigate these matters effectively.

Divorce always involves money, and this may be the primary issue between two spouses who individually or jointly possess valuable assets or significant wealth. Dividing marital assets appropriately is one of the most significant steps toward a strong post-divorce future. Even if you and your spouse agree on property division, knowledgeable guidance is crucial.

Don't let a divorce ruin your retirement plans

On behalf of Joseph Allan Shaw, P.C. posted in Divorce on Thursday, March 2, 2017.

You've spent most of your life planning and saving for retirement. Something you might not have planned for, though, is a divorce. Besides the emotional aspects of the dissolution of your marriage, divorce can have a large impact on your retirement savings.

Know before you go: Property division during Alabama divorces

On behalf of Joseph Allan Shaw, P.C. posted in Divorce on Friday, September 30, 2016.

When couples marry, they usually dream of a happy life together for 'as long as they both shall live.' Throughout the duration of the marriage, a couple will accumulate possessions with the idea of that happily-ever-after coming true.

Unfortunately, divorces happen. For couples who have accumulated high-value assets along the way, the division of these items can cause an incredible amount of animosity and tension.

Which marital assets must be divided?