Frequently Asked Questions

When working with a family law attorney, you can expect a collaborative and professional approach tailored to your unique situation. Your attorney will explain your rights and advocate for your interests. They will also provide you with practical advice and insights to make informed decisions regarding your case. At The VanNoy Firm, we prioritize clear communication, compassionate guidance and strategic representation to help you achieve the best possible outcome.

The timeline for a family law case depends on how complicated issues involved are and whether an agreement can be reached outside of court. Cases that require significant negotiation or litigation may take longer, while straightforward matters resolved through mutual agreement may be completed more quickly. Your attorney will offer an estimated timeline tailored to the unique details of your case, ensuring you know what to expect throughout the process.

Not all family law cases require appearing in court. Many matters can be resolved through alternative methods such as mediation or settlement negotiations, which can save time, reduce costs and minimize stress. However, if an agreement cannot be reached, going to court may be necessary to resolve disputes.

To make the most of your initial consultation, please bring any relevant documents or information pertaining to your case. These may include financial records, court orders, prenuptial or postnuptial agreements and any correspondence with the other party involved. Additionally, coming prepared with a list of questions or concerns will help your attorney better understand your situation and provide targeted advice.

Ohio courts place the child’s best interests at the forefront, evaluating key factors such as each parent’s ability and willingness to provide a stable, nurturing environment, the strength of the child’s bond with each parent and the child’s adjustment to home and school. The court also evaluates each parent’s mental and physical health, willingness to facilitate the other parent’s relationship with the child and any history of domestic violence.

Grandparents can petition for visitation rights in Ohio under specific circumstances; for instance, in cases of divorce, the passing of one parent or when a child is born outside of marriage. The court will evaluate whether granting visitation aligns with the best interests of the child and whether it would interfere with the parent-child relationship.

Legal custody refers to the right to make important decisions about a child’s upbringing, including education, healthcare and religious matters. Physical custody (or parenting time) refers to where the child lives and the time each parent spends with the child.

Ohio follows the principle of equitable distribution, meaning marital property is divided fairly but not necessarily equally between spouses. The court considers factors such as the length of marriage, each spouse’s assets and debts, contributions to the marriage and each party’s economic circumstances.

Spousal support may be awarded when there’s a significant disparity in earning capacity between spouses, considering factors such as the length of marriage, each party’s income and assets and contributions to the marriage. Courts also considers the standard of living during marriage and the time needed for the receiving spouse to become self-supporting.

While you can represent yourself, family law cases involve complex legal procedures and have long-lasting consequences for your family and finances. An attorney can protect your rights, navigate court procedures and help you seek the best possible outcome.

Moving out of state with children typically requires court approval, especially if it interferes with the other parent’s parenting time. You’ll need to demonstrate that the move is in the children’s best interests and provide a plan for maintaining the other parent’s relationship with the children.

A parenting plan is a comprehensive document that defines how divorced or separated parents will divide responsibilities and allocate time with their children. It covers decision-making authority, parenting time schedules, holiday arrangements and communication methods, providing clarity and reducing future conflicts.