Family law
Family law, handled close to home
When a family changes, the paperwork follows. We help you through it in plain words, and we keep in mind that you'll still see each other at the grocery store.
Divorce and separation
Dividing property, debts and a farm or business, by agreement where you can and in court where you can't.
Custody and parenting time
A schedule that works for school, chores and two households, written so it holds up.
Child and spousal support
Setting support, and changing it when a job, a harvest or a household changes.
Adoption
Stepparent, relative and agency adoptions, through to the final hearing.
Guardianship
For a child whose parents can't care for them, or an adult who can no longer decide alone.
Prenuptial agreements
An agreement before marriage, often to keep family land with the family it came from.
Your first meeting
What happens when you call
Claire meets with you for thirty minutes, at the office or by phone. She listens first, then tells you how matters like yours usually go, what it may cost, and what you can do this week. You decide from there.
Bring what you have
Any court papers you've been served
A rough list of what you own and owe
Your children's school and activity schedules
Common questions
Do we both need lawyers?
Each spouse should have their own. We can represent only one of you, and we'll tell you if we've already spoken with the other.
Will we have to go to court?
Most family matters settle by agreement or in mediation. When they don't, we take them to a hearing, and we'll prepare you for it.
How do you charge for family law?
By the hour, with a retainer up front. We'll give you a written estimate at the first meeting and a bill every month.
Can a custody order be changed later?
Yes, when circumstances change in a real way, such as a move or a new work schedule. We'll tell you whether yours likely qualifies.
Talk with Claire about your family
Call the office or send a short note. We'll set up a first meeting.