Divorce is often one of the most challenging legal experiences a person can face. Whether you and your spouse agree on the terms of separation (uncontested divorce) or are in conflict over critical issues (contested divorce), our attorneys are here to guide you with clarity and confidence.
Arizona is a no-fault divorce state, meaning you do not need to prove misconduct, such as adultery or abandonment, to file for divorce. Instead, you only need to establish that the marriage is “irretrievably broken.” We assist clients in all stages of the divorce process, including:
- Division of Assets and Debts: Arizona follows community property laws, which require an equitable division of marital assets and liabilities. Our attorneys work to protect your financial interests during this process.
- Child Custody and Support: For couples with children, divorce often includes creating parenting plans and determining financial support obligations.
- Spousal Support (Alimony): We help clients negotiate fair alimony agreements that account for financial needs, earning capacity, and other important factors.
Whether your divorce is amicable or requires litigation, we will protect your rights and pursue a resolution that supports your future.
Child Custody
Child custody is one of the most emotionally charged areas of family law. In Arizona, courts prioritize the best interests of the child when deciding custody arrangements. These decisions are based on various factors, including each parent’s ability to provide a stable home, the child’s relationship with each parent, and, in some cases, the child’s preferences.
We advocate for parenting plans that ensure a healthy, supportive environment for your child while preserving your parental rights. Our attorneys assist with:
- Legal Decision-Making Authority: Determining which parent will have the right to make important decisions about education, healthcare, and other major life matters for the child.
- Physical Custody and Parenting Time: Establishing fair schedules for when the child resides with each parent.
- Modifications to Custody Orders: Life circumstances can change after a custody order is issued. We help parents pursue modifications to existing arrangements when necessary.
Our goal is to create a framework that promotes stability and minimizes conflict, allowing your child to thrive.
Child Support
After a separation or divorce, ensuring that children receive adequate financial support is critical to their well-being. Arizona calculates child support based on an income-sharing model, which considers both parents’ earnings, parenting time, and the child’s needs.
Our attorneys provide guidance on all aspects of child support, including:
- Understanding Financial Obligations: Helping parents understand how child support is calculated and ensuring that the correct amount is determined.
- Ensuring Compliance: Assisting with enforcement when a parent fails to meet their financial obligations.
- Modifications: If circumstances such as income changes, job loss, or the child’s needs evolve, we can assist in modifying child support orders.
We are committed to ensuring that child support arrangements are fair, accurate, and reflective of your child’s best interests.
Alimony/Spousal Support
Spousal support, or alimony, is often a key consideration in divorce cases. It is designed to provide financial assistance to a spouse who may need help transitioning to independent living after the marriage ends. Arizona courts evaluate several factors when determining spousal support, such as the length of the marriage, each spouse’s earning capacity, and their contributions to the household.
Our attorneys will:
- Evaluate Eligibility: Help determine whether spousal support is applicable in your case.
- Negotiate Terms: Advocate for fair alimony agreements that reflect your financial situation and future needs.
- Represent You in Court: If necessary, litigate spousal support claims to protect your interests.
We work tirelessly to help our clients achieve financial stability after divorce.
Paternity Establishment
For unmarried parents, establishing paternity is pivotal for determining legal rights and responsibilities. Once paternity is confirmed, parents can address custody, parenting time, and child support. Arizona law provides several ways to establish paternity, including voluntary acknowledgment and court-ordered testing.
Our attorneys can assist with:
- Filing Acknowledgment of Paternity: Helping parents complete and file the necessary legal documents.
- Court-Ordered Paternity Testing: Petitioning for DNA testing when paternity is disputed.
- Legal Implications: Advising on how paternity impacts parental rights, child support, and inheritance issues.
We guide clients through the paternity process efficiently, ensuring their rights and responsibilities as parents are clearly established.
Prenuptial Agreements
Prenuptial agreements are increasingly used by couples to protect their individual assets and financial interests before marriage. These agreements clarify how property, debts, and other matters will be handled in the event of divorce or separation.
Our attorneys assist with:
- Drafting Agreements: Creating comprehensive, legally enforceable documents that reflect your financial goals.
- Reviewing Terms: Ensuring that the terms of the agreement are fair and protect both parties.
- Modifying Agreements: Making changes to existing prenuptial agreements if circumstances evolve.
By addressing potential disputes before they arise, prenuptial agreements provide clarity and peace of mind for both partners.
Legal Separation
In some cases, couples may choose legal separation over divorce. Legal separation allows spouses to remain legally married while living apart, often for religious, financial, or personal reasons. Like divorce, legal separation addresses issues such as asset division, spousal support, and custody arrangements.
Our attorneys help clients determine whether legal separation is the right choice and guide them through the process to achieve a favorable outcome.
Post-Divorce Modifications
Life rarely remains static after a divorce. Job changes, relocations, or shifts in financial circumstances may require modifications to existing divorce agreements. We assist with post-divorce modifications for:
- Child custody and parenting time.
- Child support obligations.
- Spousal support arrangements.
We ensure these changes reflect your current situation while safeguarding your legal rights.
Guardianships and Adoptions
Guardianships and adoptions involve legally formalizing relationships to protect and care for children or other dependents. Whether you’re pursuing guardianship of a minor or adopting a child, our attorneys provide comprehensive support to ensure a smooth legal process.
Additional Family Law Services
Our family lawyer Tempe team also provides assistance with other family law matters, including:
- Domestic violence protection orders.
- Grandparent rights.
- Mediation services for family disputes.
No matter how complex or unique your situation may be, our attorneys are here to provide the guidance and advocacy you need.
Benefits of Hiring Our Tempe Family Lawyers
Choosing the right attorney for your family law matter is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Here are the key benefits of working with our skilled family law attorneys, which distinguish us from other firms in the Tempe area:
- Extensive Experience: Our attorneys have years of hands-on experience handling family law cases across Arizona, including divorce, custody, child support, and more. We understand the nuances of Arizona statutes, local court systems, and judges’ tendencies, giving you a significant advantage.
- Personalized Attention: Every family law case is unique, and we believe your legal strategy should reflect your individual needs and goals. We take the time to understand the details of your case, crafting tailored solutions that protect your rights and achieve your objectives.
- Empathy and Compassion: Family law matters often come with emotional strain, and we recognize how challenging this time can be for you and your loved ones. Our attorneys not only provide legal counsel but also offer a supportive, understanding approach to help ease the process.
- Local Expertise: As attorneys serving the Tempe community, we have an in-depth knowledge of Arizona’s family laws and how they apply to your specific situation. Our familiarity with Tempe-area courts ensures smooth navigation through the legal system.
- Proven Results: Our track record speaks for itself. We have successfully represented countless clients in achieving favorable outcomes, whether through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
Contact Our Experienced Family Lawyers in Tempe, Arizona
At Bishop, Del Vecchio & Beeks Law Office, P.C., we are here to help you navigate the complexities of family law. Whether you’re facing a divorce, a custody dispute or need assistance drafting a prenuptial agreement, our experienced team is ready to provide the legal support you need. Contact us today at (602) 878-3133 to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward resolving your family law matter.
