When people first think about divorce they may think of just the dissolution of marriage alone, however divorce cases can often times involve companion cases. Similarly, paternity proceedings that establish parental rights and obligations can also lead to the development of companion cases. For some individuals, companion cases can be quite the surprise, but for individuals who have experienced counsel, it may not be much of a surprise and more of an anticipation. This blog explores the common types of companion cases that arise from divorce and paternity proceedings in Indiana.
One of the more common companion cases that arise from divorce or paternity proceedings is child custody matters. Child custody matters come about when there needs to be a decision made regarding legal and physical custody of the child(ren), as well as parenting time for the parents. Divorce proceedings with children will likely have a child custody matter arise from the divorce proceedings as its own matter, similar to paternity cases. Likewise, child support is another companion case. In Indiana, both parents have a duty to financially support their children and therefore, child support proceedings stem from divorce or paternity proceedings to establish support for the child(ren). Child support and child custody matters accompany many divorce and paternity proceedings, and this is especially crucial to consider if you have children and plan on getting a divorce or establish paternity.
Another companion case to divorce proceedings is property division matters. If the parties in divorce proceedings cannot properly divide their marital assets and debts equitability, a property division matter will result. Property division proceedings will provide the court an opportunity to evaluate and divide the marital estate in accordance with Indiana law. In addition to property division, spousal maintenance is another companion case. If the parties are unable to agree on the amount of spousal maintenance, then the court will evaluate the situation and make a determination about maintenance payments.
Divorce and paternity proceedings can bring about companion cases and if you have an experienced attorney then these companion cases will not come as a surprise. While this information may seem overwhelming and make the divorce or paternity matter feel as though it is never ending, the assistance of a skillful attorney will help make the process run smoothly. The attorneys at Ciyou & Associates, P.C. have immense experience in divorce and paternity matters as well as the companion cases that can come up. We are here to help you with your divorce or paternity matters, as well as the companion cases that arise. This blog was written by attorneys at Ciyou & Associates, P.C. and this blog is not intended as specific legal advice or a solicitation of services, as this is an advertisement.