Family Law
Family matters are always difficult and extremely emotional. It is difficult to find clarity and a resolution in something that you feel so strongly about. It can be hard to envision what life will be like for you and your family. You need an attorney who is going to work directly with you to strategize your case. No two cases are alike. You need someone who is going to pay attention to detail and work aggressively to get you what matters most. The Law Office of Sonia Monique Ramirez, P.L.L.C., is committed to helping you find solutions during the most difficult times in your life.
Whether you need a divorce or would like to modify an existing order, the Law Office of Sonia Monique Ramirez, P.L.L.C., can assist you. If you are unhappily married, you can do something about it. There is absolutely no reason to continue in that situation. If you have orders that no longer fit your situation or you would like changed, you can do something about it. There is absolutely no reason not to pursue that. As your life changes, so does your needs. You and your family’s situation is not a “one size fits all.”
Call today to schedule a Family Consultation. A consultation is approximately one hour long. During the consultation, Ms. Ramirez will review your situation, explain the legal process to you, and discuss your rights, obligations, and options. She will also get the opportunity to understand your goals and where you see your life going forward.
WHAT DO I HAVE TO SHOW TO GET A DIVORCE?
The State of Arizona is a No Fault State. Therefore, you do not have to state any specific reason for the divorce. Additionally, your spouse does not have to agree to the divorce.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET A DIVORCE?
The shortest time frame is 60 days. This may occur by one of two things happening: (1) your spouse fails to respond to the petition and you get the divorce by default, or (2) you and your spouse file a consent decree. Otherwise the duration of a divorce is a case-by-case situation. Depending on how complex your case is things may take longer. The Law Office of Sonia Monique Ramirez, P.L.L.C., will work closely with you to strategize on your case.
HOW MUCH WILL THIS COST ME?
There is no set dollar amount in the cost of litigation. You should be aware that there are many fees in defending your case. The ultimate cost of it all depends on many factors. After you have your consultation with Ms. Ramirez, she can advise you of her fee. Keep in mind that there is always a fee to file with the court and usually a process serving fee. Other possible fees include: disclosure, subpoenas, expert witnesses, and appraisals.
WHEN SHOULD I CONSULT WITH AN ATTORNEY?
It is best to consult with an attorney as soon as possible. There may be time sensitive issues that you are not aware of. Additionally, you need to get fully educated on your rights. Your first initial actions can have a great impact on the ultimate outcome.
CAN I JUST DO THE PLEADING MYSELF OR GO TO A DOCUMENT PROCESSOR?
Sure you can do that, but you are setting yourself up for potential problems. You need to get educated on your right, obligations, and options. A document processor is not authorized by law to give you legal advice. Your pleadings are crucial and should state the relief you want from the court. By getting advice from an attorney, you will be better prepared and have the information you need.
WHAT ARE TEMPORARY ORDERS?
Temporary orders are issued by the court during the proceeding prior to a final court order or decree. These orders give the parties something to follow in the interim until the matter goes to trial or if the parties come to an agreement on the issues.
Temporary orders may be issued on an emergency basis. You should consult with an attorney to see if your situation qualifies for this.
HOW MUCH WILL I GET FOR CHILD SUPPORT?
This is no direct answer for this. Child support is calculated pursuant to the Arizona Child Support Guidelines. The parties’ gross income is used in determining how much should be allocated for support. However, there are other factors which are taken into consideration that greatly affect the amount. The State provides a child support calculator at their website. The purpose of this website is only to provide information and will not guarantee an amount to be awarded by the court.
WHAT IS CUSTODY?
There are two forms of custody; there is legal and physical custody. Physical custody determines which parent the child will reside with. This individual is primarily responsible for providing the daily needs of the child. Legal custody determines the parent’s ability to make major life decisions for the child such as: education, medical and religion. Depending on a number of factors and what is in the child’s best interest the court will award custody accordingly.