Family & Domestic Law
Attorneys in Dover, DE

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Your Family Deserves The Best Family Lawyer

At Schmittinger & Rodriguez, our family law attorneys understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll domestic issues have on spouses and children. There are many types of disputes in this practice area including divorce cases, spousal and child support matters, and the division of assets. Notwithstanding the disputes, there are other family matters such as prenuptial agreements which require the skill and knowledge of an experienced family law attorney.

The family lawyers at Schmittinger & Rodriguez are dedicated to helping families navigate stressful and consequential legal matters. The firm understands how parents and each child can be impacted by family law issues. Our family law practice is structured to resolve the legal issue and enable each member of the family to move on with their life.

What Does A Family Law
Lawyer Do?

Family and domestic law lawyers in Delaware are legal professionals who specialize in representing clients in matters related to family law. Family law deals with legal issues involving family relationships, such as marriage, divorce, custody, child support, alimony, marital property division, adoption, and guardianship.

Here are some of the services that our family law lawyers typically provide:

    1. Divorce: Family law lawyers can guide clients through the divorce process, including filing for divorce, whether contested divorces or not, negotiating settlements, and representing clients in court.

    2. Child Custody and Support: An experienced attorney helps clients establish or modify custody arrangements and child support agreements.

    3. Property Division: Family law attorneys assist clients in dividing marital property, including assets and debts, during divorce proceedings.

    4. Alimony: Family lawyers help clients negotiate and obtain spousal support payments.

    5. Adoption and Guardianship: A family law attorney can help clients navigate the legal process of adopting a child or establishing guardianship.

    6. Domestic Violence: A family law attorney can assist clients in obtaining restraining orders, protective orders, and other legal remedies to protect them from domestic violence.

    7. Mediation: Our DE lawyers can provide mediation services to help clients reach agreements outside of court.

    8. Litigation: We can represent clients in court and advocate for their rights and interests in family law cases.

In addition to providing legal services, family and domestic law lawyers in Delaware may also offer guidance and support to clients during what can be an emotionally challenging time in their lives. They may help clients understand their legal options, navigate complex legal processes, and make informed decisions about their future.

Our DE family law lawyers also provide additional resources for uncontested legal matters such as prenuptial agreements. These agreements are an effective tool to prevent future issues and disputes.

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Contact Schmittinger & Rodriguez

At Schmittinger & Rodriguez, we understand how difficult and stressful it can be to deal with a family law matter. It can be traumatic and emotionally charged.

Our team has decades of combined experience handling family law issues. We have a deep understanding of Delaware law and will provide dedicated legal representation throughout your case. Our experienced attorneys are committed to providing you with personalized attention and will fight hard to get you the best possible outcome for your case. If you or someone you love has a family law matter, contact Schmittinger & Rodriguez today and let us help you through this difficult time. We will work hard to get you the justice, security, and peace of mind that you deserve.

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What Our Clients Say

Brian Church
2023-02-07
Nice and friendly lawyers that are knowledgeable.
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2023-02-06
The Real Estate section of this law firm is top notch, from the attorney, to paralegals, to title searchers.
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2022-12-07
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Google rating score: 4 of 5, based on 51 reviews
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Most Common Questions

Types Of Divorce In Delaware
Child Custody Cases In Delaware

What Are The Kinds Of Divorce In Delaware?

Divorce laws in Delaware are complex and can be confusing for those who are unfamiliar with the legal system. It is important to understand the different types of divorce available in Delaware, as each has its own unique set of requirements and procedures. Here are the main types of divorce in Delaware:

    1. Fault-based Divorce: In a fault-based divorce, one party alleges that the other party is responsible for the breakdown of the marriage. Grounds for a fault-based divorce in Delaware include adultery, willful desertion for one year, habitual drunkenness or drug abuse, and cruelty.

    2. No-fault Divorce: In a no-fault divorce, neither party is considered responsible for the breakdown of the marriage. Instead, the couple simply states that they have irreconcilable differences and wish to end the marriage.

    3. Contested Divorce: In a contested divorce, the parties are unable to come to an agreement on issues such as property division, custody, and support. The case will then proceed to trial in family court, where a judge will make decisions on these issues.

    4. Uncontested Divorce: In an uncontested divorce, the parties have agreed on all issues and have submitted a written agreement to the court for approval. This type of divorce is typically quicker, less expensive, and less stressful on family members than a contested divorce.

    5. Simplified Divorce: A simplified divorce is a type of uncontested divorce that is available to couples who meet certain requirements. To qualify for a simplified divorce in Delaware, the parties must have been married for less than eight years, have no children, and have limited property and debts.

Understanding the different types of divorce in Delaware can help you make informed decisions about your divorce proceedings. If you are considering a divorce, it is important to consult with an experienced family lawyer who can guide you through the process and help you achieve the best possible outcome.

How Are Child Custody Cases Resolved in Delaware?

Child custody cases in Delaware can be complex and emotionally charged. When parents cannot come to an agreement on child custody and visitation arrangements, the family court will step in to make decisions based on the best interests of the child. Here are the steps involved in resolving custody cases in Delaware:

    1. Mediation: In Delaware, parents are required to participate in mediation before a custody case can go to trial. During mediation, a neutral third-party mediator helps the parents reach a mutually acceptable agreement on custody and visitation.

    2. Custody Evaluation: If mediation is unsuccessful, the court may order a custody evaluation. A custody evaluation typically involves interviews with the parents, children, and other relevant parties, as well as observations of the children with each parent. The evaluator will then make recommendations to the court on custody and visitation arrangements.

    3. Trial: If mediation and a custody evaluation fail to produce a resolution, the case will go to trial. At trial, each parent will present evidence and arguments in support of their desired custody arrangement. The judge will then make a decision based on the best interests of the child.

    4. Modification: Custody arrangements can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances, such as a parent relocating or a child’s needs changing. The court will again consider the best interests of the child when making modifications to custody arrangements.

It is important to work with experienced family law attorneys when dealing with child custody cases. Our outstanding lawyers can help you navigate the legal process, protect your rights, and work toward a custody arrangement that is in the best interests of your child.

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Why Schmittinger & Rodriguez
Is Right For You

At Schmittinger & Rodriguez, we understand how difficult and stressful it can be to deal with a family law matter. It can be traumatic and emotionally charged.

Our team has decades of combined experience handling family law issues. We have a deep understanding of Delaware law and will provide dedicated legal representation throughout your case. Our experienced attorneys are committed to providing you with personalized attention and will fight hard to get you the best possible outcome for your case. If you or someone you love has a family law matter, contact Schmittinger & Rodriguez today and let us help you through this difficult time. We will work hard to get you the justice, security, and peace of mind that you deserve.

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Family & Domestic FAQs

What should I expect during a consultation with a family law lawyer at Schmittinger & Rodriguez?

During a consultation with our family attorneys in Dover, DE, you can expect to discuss the details of your case and your legal options. The lawyer may ask you questions about your personal and financial circumstances, your goals for the case, and any relevant documentation you have.

How long does it take to resolve a family law case in Delaware?

The length of time it takes to resolve a family law case in Delaware varies depending on the complexity of the case and the parties involved. Some cases can be resolved quickly through negotiation or mediation, while others may require litigation and can take several months or even years to complete.

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