Experienced Chattanooga Attorney Works to Resolve Complex Domestic Issues
Responsive Tennessee lawyer handles a diverse range of family law matters
Legal issues involving your loved ones can be emotionally and financially devastating. At Vital Law Office & Dispute Resolution Services in Chattanooga, our attorney understands the importance of obtaining fair resolutions in family law matters and offers compassionate representation to clients throughout the Chattanooga area. With experience as both a family law mediator and legal advocate, our attorney, Patricia Best Vital, is highly adept at identifying clients’ key concerns and producing positive outcomes. Whether you need assistance with filing for an uncontested divorce, formulating a parenting plan or modifying a child support order, our attorney will listen and offer thorough legal counsel tailored to your situation and needs.
What issues must be settled in a divorce?
With knowledgeable legal support, the divorce process can be efficiently managed and successfully resolved. The following matters are decided during a marriage dissolution:
- The division of marital assets and debts
- Whether alimony will be paid
- How parenting responsibilities will be divided
- Who will pay child support and in what amount
Our attorney has over 20 years of experience protecting her clients’ interests and will ensure you understand the potential implications of any decision.
What factors do courts use to determine whether spousal support is appropriate?
Alimony, sometimes referred to as spousal support, can trigger conflict during a divorce. While settling this issue through mutual agreement is ideal, it is sometimes necessary to bring the matter before a judge. Some of the factors courts use to evaluate spousal support awards include:
- The length of the marriage
- The financial resources of each spouse
- The ability of each spouse to generate income
Working with an experienced attorney increases the likelihood that the court will respect your legal argument, possibly leading to a better result. Our attorney can help you determine whether mediation, negotiation or litigation is the best path for you.
How is child custody determined in Tennessee?
Tennessee child custody decisions are made based on what is determined to be in the best interests of the child, while also taking into account the benefits of shared parenting and the importance of creating a plan that gives both parents frequent access the children they share. Parents are encouraged to work out their own custody arrangements, though they must be approved by a judge. It is common for one parent to have primary residential custody, with the other parent allowed reasonable visitation, unless that parent is found to be unfit, in which case, supervised visitation might be ordered. Our attorney appreciates how sensitive this issue is and will help you seek a solution that fosters a cooperative, healthy environment for everyone involved.
Can you change a child support order?
Child support obligations have legal force and cannot be changed without the approval of the court. If you need to change a child support order due to a financial shift or some other circumstance, our firm can help. Requested modifications must be material and substantial, such as a notable reduction or increase in income, significant medical costs for the child or a change in parenting time. Modifying a child support order is a formal legal matter, and our firm will assess whether the adjustment you seek is likely to be authorized by the court.
Contact a dedicated Tennessee family law firm to schedule an initial consultation
At Vital Law Office & Dispute Resolution Services, our attorney takes the time to listen to our clients’ concerns and represents individuals throughout the Chattanooga area in family law issues. Call 423-558-0673 or contact our firm online to schedule a consultation at our Chattanooga office.
