Ankeny Family Lawyer

Legal Services with a Focus on Your Family and Future

At Hope Law Firm, we understand that matters related to family can be emotionally challenging and legally complex. Our experienced family lawyers in Ankeny, IA, specialize in family law and are dedicated to providing compassionate and knowledgeable legal representation.

Since 2003, our firm has offered empathetic guidance and proficient advocacy for a diverse range of family law matters affecting Iowa residents. Whether you are facing a divorce, a child custody dispute, or need assistance with adoptions, we are here to guide you through the process and protect your rights. With our comprehensive range of family law services, we strive to achieve the best possible outcomes for our clients.

To request a complimentary consultation, you can either contact us online or call us at (515) 298-5056. Our team is readily available to discuss your needs and assist you.

Dissolution of Marriage in Iowa

When you find yourself at the point where your marriage must come to an end, it is crucial to be well-informed about your options under Iowa law. At Hope Law Firm, our divorce attorneys in Ankeny, IA are dedicated to patiently explaining the law and addressing all your questions, ensuring that you can make fully informed decisions about how to proceed.

Depending on your specific circumstances, you have the following choices:

• Annulment: If your marriage was invalid from the beginning, Iowa law allows you to seek an annulment. This legal action treats you and your spouse as if the marriage never occurred. Grounds for annulment may include a spouse having a pre-existing undissolved marriage, lack of capacity to enter into a legal marriage, or impotence at the time of marriage.

• Divorce: A divorce terminates a valid marriage, providing each spouse with the freedom to remarry if they wish. In Iowa, divorce is considered strictly no-fault, meaning that neither party has to assign blame or allege marital misconduct. To obtain a divorce judgment, you and your spouse will need to address matters such as alimony, child custody, child support, and the division of marital property. Resolution methods can include traditional negotiations, mediation, collaborative divorce, or, if necessary, a trial in family court.

• Legal Separation: Legal separation allows couples to resolve the same issues mentioned above while living separately. However, it does not grant the freedom to remarry. Legal separation is often chosen by individuals who have religious objections to divorce or those who need to remain married to maintain eligibility for certain benefits.

If the defendant spouse is an Iowa resident and can be personally served with the dissolution of marriage papers, there is no residency requirement for the petitioning spouse. Otherwise, there is a one-year residency requirement before filing for divorce.

At Hope Law Firm, we understand that ending a marriage is a significant life decision, and we are here to guide you through the process with care and expertise. Our experienced divorce attorneys will advocate for your rights and work towards achieving the best possible outcome for you.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and gain the support you need during this challenging time.

Family Law Matters Involving Children

In Iowa, family law prioritizes the well-being of children. The protection and promotion of their best interests is of the utmost importance. At Hope Law Firm, we specialize in effectively managing various child-related issues that arise during, after, and outside of divorce proceedings.

Our dedicated team is committed to providing comprehensive legal support in the following areas:

• Child Custody: When disputes arise concerning child custody, it is crucial to protect the best interests of the child. Our Ankeny child custody attorneys have experience in negotiating and litigating child custody matters, aiming to achieve a parenting plan that promotes the child's well-being.

• Visitation and Parenting Time: We help parents establish visitation schedules that allow for meaningful and consistent interaction between children and non-custodial parents. Our goal is to create visitation arrangements that foster strong parent-child relationships while considering practicalities and the child's well-being.

• Child Support: We understand the importance of ensuring that children receive the financial support they need. Our child support lawyers in Ankeny will assist in establishing child support agreements or modifying existing arrangements to ensure the best interests of the child are met.

• Modifications: Circumstances may change after a divorce or custody order is issued. Our Ankeny modification attorneys can help you seek modifications to existing orders, addressing changes in child custody, visitation schedules, child support, or alimony.

• Relocation: If you are considering relocating with your child or seeking to oppose a proposed relocation, our family law attorneys in Ankeny, IA can guide you through the legal requirements and advocate for your rights and the best interests of your child.

• Grandparents' Rights: If you are a grandparent seeking to establish visitation rights or custody of your grandchildren, our Ankeny family lawyers can help you understand your legal options and guide you through the legal process.

• Fathers' Rights: Despite the gender-neutral nature of Iowa family law, fathers may feel unjustly overlooked in custody battles. As legal advocates, we diligently examine cases and raise concerns with the court to guarantee our clients receive the same fair and impartial treatment as all parties involved.

• Paternity Issues: We handle paternity matters, including establishing or disputing parental rights and responsibilities. Our Ankeny paternity attorneys assist in resolving issues such as custody, visitation, and child support when paternity is in question.

• Adoptions: Adopting a child is a joyous occasion, but the legal procedures involved can be overwhelming. Our adoption lawyers in Ankeny, IA will provide guidance and support, whether you are considering domestic adoption, international adoption, or step-parent adoption.

At Hope Law Firm, we understand the sensitive nature of family law matters involving children. Our compassionate Ankeny family lawyers are dedicated to protecting the rights of children and advocating for their best interests.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can assist you in resolving child-related family law issues effectively.