A Trusted Family Law Firm
Case, Rajnoha & Boudreau, LLP of Ballwin, Missouri
At Case, Rajnoha & Boudreau, LLP, we understand the emotional turbulence accompanying divorce. Rather than feed the fire, we help our clients think through their priorities and understand their options so they can make informed decisions during a difficult time.
We strive to resolve issues as amicably as possible in order to avoid costly, time-consuming litigation. By resolving disputes through negotiation, the divorce process is much less painful for all concerned, especially the children. However, when necessary to protect your interests, we will not hesitate to proceed to trial.
Call us now for a free initial telephone consultation at (636) 923-8680 or toll-free at (888) 469-3949. You can also contact us online.
At Case, Rajnoha & Boudreau, LLP, we represent clients in the following areas of family law:
- Divorce: contested and uncontested
- Child custody, child support, visitation, parenting plans
- Property division
- Maintenance (alimony)
- Legal separation
- Annulment
- Pre-nuptial and post-nuptial agreements
- Name change
- Post-decree modifications
- Stepparent adoption
- Paternity
Child Custody: Two Types
- Legal custody: Refers to the right to make important decisions regarding your child. A couple with joint legal custody must agree on important issues such as education, religion, and medical care.
- Physical custody: Refers to the right of a parent to have the child reside with him or her. Some parents share physical custody, while others give sole custody to one parent and visitation rights to the other.
Child Support
Child support is based on the gross monthly incomes of the parents. Day care expenses, health insurance, and other child-related expenses can be included in child support. Child support is paid to the custodial parent, usually through a deduction from the non-custodial parent's paycheck.
Parenting Plans and Classes
- Parenting plan: Parents of minor children must submit a parenting plan to the judge with a proposed custody and visitation schedule. If the parents cannot agree on a single plan, the court will determine what is best for the children. In some instances, the court may appoint a guardian ad litem (GAL) to assist in determining the plan which is in the best interest of the children.
- Parenting classes: Many courts require that each parent complete a parenting class before the case can be finalized.
Property Division
Family lawyers help determine if property is marital or separate. This can be a complex undertaking, so it's wise to get an attorney to help you.
- Marital property: Includes most property obtained during marriage.
- Separate property: May include property obtained before the marriage, property obtained by gift or inheritance (even if obtained during the marriage), and property identified in a pre-nuptial agreement identified as separate property.
Additional information on child support:
A common question asked by clients is: "How long does the child support continue?" Missouri law answers this question, unless the parents agree to do something else in a written judgment.
Currently, child support continues until the child graduates from high school or reaches age 18 (whichever is later) or becomes emancipated. Emancipation occurs when a child becomes self-supporting, such as by moving out, getting married, or joining the military.
When a child is enrolled in college or other post-secondary education by October 1st following high school graduation, the child support may continue until the child reaches age 21, so long as a number of specific requirements are met. Due to the number of exceptions, this statute is very complicated and therefore it is important to speak to an attorney to ensure that you comply with the law.
Although the parent receiving child support is obligated to notify the court and paying parent upon the emancipation of a child, they often fail to do so. There are serious consequences for failing to do so. In that event, there are documents the paying parent can file with the court. It is important to speak to an attorney regarding the issue of child support termination.
Call for a free telephone consultation at (636) 923-8680 or toll-free at (888) 469-3949 or contact us online. Let us help you with your family law matter. We accept Visa and MasterCard.
"The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely upon advertisements."
