Family Law Attorney in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh attorney, Kim A. Bodnar, provides comprehensive services to those in need of a family lawyer. These types of cases can be complicated and result in litigation. It takes someone that is both experienced and considerate to provide the representation you need in order to protect your rights and that of your children.
There are several areas of family law and as a law firm in Pennsylvania, I work with clients before, during, and after their marriages to ensure that they have the legal support and guidance they need to go through all stages of life. This involves careful planning, negotiations, and litigation when necessary. My clients are primarily located in and around the 15219, but I do take cases in other areas of the state when necessary. Here is more information about the family law practice at Kim A. Bodnar, Attorney at Law. If you have further questions call us.
Prenuptial Agreements
Prior to getting married, I recommend entering into a prenuptial agreement. I work with couples in Pittsburgh, PA to help them reach an understanding about what each person has gone into the marriage and what they would retain if the marriage were to dissolve. A prenuptial agreement can also include provisions for how joint assets would be divided, alimony, etc. in the event of a divorce. It may seem unromantic, but divorce is incredibly common, and my job as a family attorney is to protect my clients. A prenuptial agreement is the best way to protect the assets you own now and your ownership interest in what will be acquired in the future. At Kim A. Bodnar, Attorney at Law, I advise my clients to plan ahead, and if the agreement is never needed, that’s excellent news. If, however, my clients get divorced this will make the process go smoothly and prevent what can turn into a vicious court battle.
Mediation and Negotiations
Many issues can be resolved outside of court by simply negotiating settlement terms. If you have a conflict with your spouse, ex-spouse, or another family member – I can represent you and attempt to settle through mediation. This is a non-binding form of negotiation in Pennsylvania that typically involves two lawyers. By approaching the negotiations from a legal point of view, Kim A. Bodnar can work towards resolving the issue faster than if you attempted to do so on your own. If an agreement is reached, I can draft the paperwork necessary for it to become binding.
Divorce
If you and your spouse are considering a divorce, Kim A. Bodnar can help you to get through the process with minimal hardship. Couples throughout Pennsylvania get divorced on a daily basis and who you have representing you will often make the difference of whether the conclusion of the divorce is in your favor or not. It is wise to consult with an attorney prior to filing so that you can learn about what to expect and what you can do to prepare and position yourself for victory. Kim A. Bodnar, Attorney at Law provides representation for couples throughout the 15219 area, and I will make sure that your rights are protected.
In a divorce proceeding, you can either settle outside of court by using an attorney to mediate or you can go to trial. In both scenarios, a determination will need to be reached for who will keep each asset and each debt. This includes bank accounts, retirement funds, life insurance policies, boats, cars, homes, personal effects, investments, etc. Many people make the mistake of thinking that if something belonged to them personally it would be awarded to them during the divorce. This is not necessarily the case as the judge can divide assets hoIver they want. Even if a retirement account is in your name, your spouse could lay claim to a portion of it. Even if you drove a certain car for work, your spouse could claim that it’s theirs. Everything is on the table in a divorce, making it extremely important to work with a family attorney that you can trust.
Custody Cases
Divorced couples throughout Pittsburgh, PA deal with custody issues on a regular basis. When getting a divorce, the judge will determine who gets primary custody of the children or if you will have joint custody of them. Based on this determination and how much each parent earns, a child support schedule will be created. This works in theory except that life circumstances can change. How much a child stays with each parent can change based on need, as can the income level of each parent, and what the child’s needs are, overall. At Kim A. Bodnar, Attorney at Law, I represent people that want to go back to court and have their custody situation or child support altered. It is important to provide the evidence necessary for proving why your proposal is sound and how it will benefit your children. This is difficult to do on your own but Kim A. Bodnar is an expert at it. To learn more about this process call for a consultation.
Litigation
In Pennsylvania, there are some family law firms that only work with people outside of the courtroom. They will draft agreements and negotiations between parties but will not litigate. I understand that there is no way to predict if a situation will escalate and if going to court will be necessary. As such, Kim A. Bodnar has the skills necessary to fight both in and out of the courtroom. If your divorce is complicated or you are attempting to relocate your children outside of the Pittsburgh, PA area, you need a family lawyer that is also a skillful litigator.
Additional Areas of Practice
Family law encompasses far more than marriage and divorce. I am also able to help protect your family and keep your legacy safe. At Kim A. Bodnar, Attorney at Law, I work with clients throughout the 15219 area by helping them to prepare for their present and their future using documents like wills. I can also discuss matters pertaining to the children, your assets, and overall plans and goals. To learn more, call.