Orangetown Family & Divorce Lawyer
Divorce and other family legal issues are some of the most contentious, and the most emotional. Family law cases in Orangetown are complicated and can place a great deal of pain, turmoil, and stress for you and your children. You should not go through the process alone. Our Orangetown family & divorce lawyer can help you through whatever legal issue you are facing and will give you the best chance of a positive outcome.
Divorce in Orangetown
When many people think of divorce, they imagine a long and costly courtroom battle. Fortunately, the majority of divorce cases settle outside of court, particularly when a couple can agree to all terms of the divorce. The terms involved in any divorce case are very fact-specific, but the most common of them are as follows:
- Property division
- Spousal support
- Child custody and visitation
- Child support
Couples can reach an agreement to the above terms on their own, or the attorneys representing each side can negotiate with each other. Only the most contentious and complex cases must proceed to a divorce trial in the family courts.
Modifications
Once a family law judge has issued the final divorce decree, the orders are final and legally binding. Still, that does not mean individuals cannot modify them in the future. To modify final divorce orders, the person petitioning for the change must show that there has been a substantial change in circumstances. For example, if a person was paying child support and then lost their job, they could argue that they no longer have the appropriate income to pay the current amount of support.
It is critical that both parties comply with all divorce orders until a judge has officially modified them. There are serious penalties associated with violating court orders, including those issued by the family courts.
Orders of Protection
When many people think of orders of protection, or restraining orders, they often think of criminal cases. It is true that victims of violent or threatening crimes can seek an order of protection against the offender. However, the family courts also issue orders of protection in cases that involve domestic violence. Domestic violence is defined as any abuse perpetrated by someone you currently live with, have lived with, have an intimate relationship with, or have had an intimate relationship with.
If you have been a victim of domestic violence, you can file a petition with the court to obtain an order of protection. Once you have obtained the order, it prohibits the offender from contacting you, and potentially from contacting your children. Orders of protection are usually temporary when they are issued, but they can become permanent.
Contact Our Family Law and Divorce Lawyer in Orangetown for a Consultation
If you have a family law issue, you need sound legal representation. At The Law Office of Robert S. Sunshine, P.C., our Orangetown family law and divorce lawyer can provide it and make sure you obtain the best possible outcome. Call us now at 845.735.1300 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.
