A Washington, D.C. domestic relations case that is set for trial generally follow the schedule shown in the infograph above. There may also be some additional steps to the trial process if there are any motions filed that require hearings on those motions. Superior Court Judges will often suggest to parties that they attempt … Read more
When considering a divorce clients frequently want to know how a divorce will impact their assets. The District of Columbia follows a process known as “equitable division” to distribute assets following a divorce. This does not mean that the property will be divided equally, but rather it will be divided in a manner that the presiding … Read more
When issuing a custody order in the District of Columbia judges are required to make findings on what the best interest of the child would be. The judges use a number of statutory factors to consider what is in the “best interest of the child”. The factors the judges consider are: the wishes of the … Read more
1. Document everything. Whether you suspect you will soon be involved in litigation or are currently involved in the litigation you can greatly help your case by documenting everything. That means telephone calls, emails, and documents you receive. Basically any and everything related to your case that could be important as evidence and documentation. You … Read more
The District of Columbia Safe and Stable Homes for Children and Youth Act allows third parties the opportunity to petition for custody of children. The Act also establishes the standards governing custody cases involving third parties. In order for a third party to have standing to sue for custody the parent who has been the … Read more
Years ago if you wanted to hire an attorney you either looked for a referral from someone you knew or looked in the local Yellow Pages. With the proliferation of attorneys in the market and attitudes towards attorney advertising changing the problems is not so much scarcity as it is who to trust among the … Read more
Uncontested divorces offer the chance to obtain your divorce in an expedited fashion as opposed to a contested divorce where the process is significantly longer. In order to be eligible to file for an uncontested divorce you and your spouse must have come to an agreement on all property, debt, spousal support, and child custody … Read more
If you are getting a divorce in the District of Columbia you can request, and may be eligible to receive spousal support. Section 16-913 of the District of Columbia Code states that, “In determining an award for spousal support the Court looks at all relevant factors including, but not limited to, the: (1) ability of … Read more
Long after an agreement or trial settles custody between you and your ex you are still going to be left dealing with that person until your child reaches the age of majority, and even after that. Here are some tips from the Huffington Post on how to deal with an ex that is combative.
In the District of Columbia Civil Protective Orders (CPO’s) are available to individuals who have had a crime committed against them, or have had a crime threatened against them, by someone with whom they have had certain types of previous relationships. A standard CPO will include a provision that the person to whom the protective … Read more
