Lebanon, Ohio Family Law Attorneys
How to choose a divorce lawyer in southwest Ohio
Divorce is one of the most traumatic events that can occur in a lifetime, carrying repercussions not just for the divorcing spouses, but for the entire extended family. In this emotionally difficult time, making sensible decisions about your life and future may seem out of reach. Ernst & Associates knows that divorce takes you into the unfamiliar and often complicated realm of law at a time when you are least prepared for it, and we are here to help.
Our reputable and skilled divorce attorneys practicing in Lebanon, Mason and West Chester can provide you with trustworthy and sensible guidance during the divorce process and as you map out future financial outlook. Our well-respected Lebanon law firm provides the personal attention and care offered by a small firm, along with the skill and experience you’d expect of a big firm.
Divorce is just one of the areas of family law in which we specialize. We also have exceptional prenuptial agreement attorneys, adoption attorneys and name change attorneys in our firm.
What is involved in a divorce case?
Divorce is a civil action brought by a spouse who wishes to end the marital relationship. For an Ohio court to have jurisdiction to hear a divorce case, one of the spouses must be a resident of Ohio for six months prior to filing the divorce petition. Ohio law provides for fault and no-fault terminations of the marital relationship and sets forth specific statutory requirements that the plaintiff must show, including:
- Willful absence of the adverse party for one year
- Adultery
- Extreme cruelty
- Any gross neglect of duty
- Habitual drunkenness
- Imprisonment of the adverse party in a state or federal correctional institution at the time of filing the complaint
- Procurement of a divorce outside Ohio by either party
- Incompatibility, unless denied by either party
Divorces are settled either by a judge who makes the final decisions about property division, child custody and visitation, and spousal and child support, or by an agreement reached between the divorcing spouses that the court must review and approve.
Our divorce and dissolution attorneys have represented clients in West Chester, Mason, Lebanon and surrounding areas in southwestern Ohio. Having spent many years in a highly successful divorce practice, our attorneys are also skilled child custody lawyers and child support advocates.
Consult with the diligent and dedicated divorce firm that cares about you
Ernst & Associates’ loyalty and service is dedicated entirely to our clients. Our skills and experience as divorce and separation attorneys are at your service regardless of how complex or simple your divorce. Contact us online or by telephone at 513-268-0738 today for a free consultation to protect your future and that of your children.