Columbus Ohio Divorce Attorneys
When a marriage comes to end, it can be devastating for all parties involved. It’s not only each spouse that is affected by a divorce, but also any children, grandparents, and others as well. If you are contemplating a divorce, or if you have been informed of a pending divorce action, it would be in your best interest to hire an experienced Columbus, Ohio divorce attorney who has both a background in divorce proceedings, and who has the know-how and skill in order to make sure that your rights and interests are met.
In the state of Ohio, a divorce is in actuality a civil lawsuit designed to end a marriage legally.
The person who files with the court for a divorce is known as the plaintiff, whereupon the other spouse is known as the defendant. Either spouse can file for a divorce, but a divorce does require appropriate statutory grounds in order to be legally valid. In other words, a divorce requires that evidence be presented for the grounds (reasons) for the divorce or termination of a marriage.
Grounds for a Divorce in Ohio
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Adultery
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Neglect
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Cruelty
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Imprisonment
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Absence
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Habitual Drunkenness
Divorce Considerations
Our divorce attorneys will help you navigate the legal process.
It’s not just a person’s mental well-being to think of. There are other factors involved in a divorce including financial matters, division of assets (property, bank accounts, retirement accounts etc.), and division of liabilities, child custody, child support, visitation rights, and spousal support (alimony).
Practical and Honest Advice
Although most divorces are settled by an agreement between spouses, sometimes an agreement cannot be reached to the satisfaction of both. In this case the divorce will head to court in what is known as a contested trial, in which evidence is presented and the court decides the outcome of any issues.
Whether your divorce is contested or not, having a knowledgeable divorce attorney to handle all matters involved is by far the smartest and most reliable way to proceed, and ensure you receive the best outcome.
Schedule a confidential divorce consultation with our attorneys today.
Ohio Divorce FAQ
Do all divorces end up in court?
A divorce action doesn’t necessarily have to go to court in order to be resolved. A ‘dissolution of marriage’ or an ‘uncontested divorce’ are two different ways that spouses can avoid going to court, if they agree on the legal grounds including division of assets, child custody etc.
How does one legally inform a spouse that a divorce has been filed?
Most often a notice of divorce is made by the clerk of court via personal delivery or by certified mail.
How long do I have to answer a divorce complaint from the clerk of courts?
In Ohio you have 28 days after being served of the complaint to file an answer.
Should I tell my divorce attorney everything?
Yes, absolutely let your attorney know all the factors, examples, instances and circumstances that may surround a divorce. It’s best that your attorney be prepared for anything that may come up in court or in divorce proceedings.
Is there an Ohio residency requirement when filing for a divorce?
A spouse that files for a divorce must be a resident of Ohio for at least six months.
However, there are exceptions such as when domestic violence is involved.
Where can I learn more about the legalities of a divorce, a separation, or a marriage dissolution in the state of Ohio?
The Ohio State Bar Association has a helpful page on this subject: Law Facts: Divorce, Dissolution & Separation