We assist clients with all areas of family law practice including divorce (below), custody, modification, paternity, orders of protection (restraining orders), enforcement and collection, step-parent adoption, etc. To learn more about matters other than divorce select here: www.mccartneylawfirm.internetbasedfamily.com/divorceother.html

Your Choices:

Divorce is an emotional and financial process, as well as a legal process.  It is important that you understand the choices available to move through the divorce process.  These include the following:

• Kitchen Table - Many couples are able to negotiate the terms of their divorce and agree on issues concerning their children, support, and a division of their property and debts.  In this event, usually one spouse contacts a lawyer who prepares the necessary documents, reflecting the agreement,  to complete the divorce process.  We can help you by  explaining the process, preparing the legal documents and providing the documents to your spouse for consideration and signature. 
• Mediation - Some couples require the assistance of a neutral mediator to provide structure for their negotiation; to help them define their goals and generate options; and to help them develop the solutions that will form their agreement. This process usually occurs before either party has filed at court.  We offer mediation services to couples.  You can learn more about mediation by selecting the "Mediation" tab on the Home Page of our Website.
• Collaborative Law - Collaborative law or collaborative practice allows each individual to have the support of their own attorney, as well as possibly other professionals, depending on their own unique situation. This process also occurs prior to the filing of legal documents at Court.   Our firm is proud to offer collaborative law as an alternative to traditional litigation. To learn more about Collaborative Law, please select the "Collaborative Law" tab on the Home Page of our Website.
• Litigation/Court - The traditional litigation process begins with the filing of a Petition and financial statements in a Circuit Court.  Sometimes, other documents are also required.  Once filed, the documents are served on the non-filing party.  Issues are often developed and negotiated through lawyers, and potentially through a series of settlement/pretrial conferences with a Judge.  Most cases are resolved by agreement; however, if your case requires a Judge's decision (a trial), we are experienced in family law trial practice and will be able to help you present your case effectively in Court.

Because divorce effects you, your children, your home and your finances, we believe that the issues in a divorce are often best resolved by exploring every opportunity for you and your spouse to participate in the process.  We are committed to helping you find constructive and creative solutions that fit your needs and those of your family.  By helping you find  methods for you and your spouse to improve communication and become focused on your interests and the future, we can ultimately help you develop an agreement that meets your needs and that  you will find more satisfying.