Slidell Divorce Attorneys
Experienced Slidell divorce lawyers for family law issues in Louisiana
At the Law Office of James A. Graham, our team of experienced Slidell divorce attorneys are committed to assisting individuals and families through the challenges associated with divorce. From understanding the legal procedures to addressing custody arrangements, spousal support, and property division, we are here to provide you with the support and advocacy you need during this critical time.
How can a Slidell divorce attorney help?
Divorce can be a complex and emotionally draining process, and an experienced attorney can provide you with the guidance and support you need to navigate the legal system. They can explain your rights and options, help you understand the legal implications of your decisions, and advocate for your best interests throughout the process.
If you and your spouse can reach an agreement on the terms of your divorce, a family law attorney can help you negotiate a fair and equitable settlement. They can draft and review settlement agreements, ensuring that your rights and interests are protected. If you and your spouse cannot reach an agreement, your attorney will represent you in court. They will prepare your case, present your arguments to the judge, and fight for your best interests.
Divorce often involves the division of marital assets and property, and an attorney can help you protect your interests in these matters. They can appraise your assets, negotiate a fair division of property, and draft and review property settlement agreements.
If you and your spouse have children, an attorney can help you resolve child custody and support issues. They can advise you on the different custody arrangements available, negotiate a custody agreement that meets your child's best interests, and calculate child support payments.
If you are eligible for spousal support, an attorney can help you secure the support you need. They can calculate the amount of spousal support you may be entitled to, negotiate a spousal support agreement, and enforce the agreement if necessary.
In addition to these specific tasks, a divorce attorney can also provide you with general legal advice, help you gather and organize documents, and represent you in mediation or arbitration proceedings. They can also help you find other professionals, such as therapists or financial advisors, who can provide you with additional support during this difficult time.
What are the grounds for divorce in Louisiana?
“Grounds” are your reasons for divorce. Here in Slidell, you can file for divorce on fault or no-fault grounds. Per Louisiana law, there are four grounds for divorce.
- The other spouse committed adultery.
- The other spouse has committed a felony and has been sentenced to death or imprisonment.
- “The other spouse physically or sexually abused the spouse seeking divorce or a child of one of the spouses, regardless of whether the other spouse was prosecuted for the act of abuse.”
- “After a contradictory hearing or consent decree, a protective order or an injunction was issued during the marriage against the other spouse to protect the spouse seeking the divorce or a child of one of the spouses from abuse.”
If none of these reasons apply to your situation or if you choose not to specify grounds, you have the option to pursue a no-fault divorce. You may petition the court for divorce at any time. However, it is essential to note that you must maintain separate residences for 180 days if there are no minor children involved, or 365 days if minor children are part of the equation, to qualify for a no-fault divorce.
About covenant marriages
Louisiana is one of three states in the country that offers covenant marriages, which can add a layer of complexity to your divorce. The Louisiana Department of Health states these reasons are:
- “The couple legally agrees to seek marital counseling if problems develop during the marriage; and
- The couple can seek a divorce or legal separation for limited reasons only.”
These reasons include adultery, commission of a felony, abandonment, physical or sexual abuse, and if the spouses have lived separate and apart for two years. In some cases, this period may be one year.
Where do I file for divorce in Slidell?
You can file for divorce in Slidell, Louisiana at the St. Tammany Parish Clerk of Court:
- 520 Old Spanish Trail, 5th Floor, Slidell, LA 70458
- Phone: (985) 643-6969
To file for divorce in Slidell or any parish, either you or your spouse must have lived in Louisiana for at least six months. However, in cases of military divorce, exceptions may apply. We can explain your specific requirements at a consultation.
Will I have to go to trial for my Slidell divorce?
If you and your spouse have reached an agreement regarding all facets of your divorce and are ready to move forward, your divorce case is considered “uncontested.” This means the Judge will sign off on your prepared agreement. However, it’s important to note that a Judge can refuse to sign your agreement if they find it is too heavily weighted in one direction.
If you are unable to agree on the details of your divorce, then the Judge will need to make a ruling. They will base this decision on the evidence presented by both sets of attorneys. This is why it is in your best interests to attempt to settle your divorce before going to court. You will be putting the Judge – a total stranger – in charge of making decisions about your future. This includes where your children are going to live and what type of support you may receive or pay.
It is important to have an experienced Slidell divorce attorney on your side, representing your and your children’s best interests at all times.
Do you have a Slidell divorce attorney near me?
The Law Office of James A. Graham is located in Slidell, at 1929 2nd St #A, and serves all of South Louisiana. We’re right off Front Street and minutes from the city court.
Talk to an experienced Slidell divorce attorney today
Don't face the complexities of divorce alone. Reach out to the skilled Slidell divorce attorneys at the Law Office of James A. Graham and take the first step toward a better future. Your peace of mind is our priority, and we are ready to champion your rights and interests. Schedule a consultation now and let us guide you through this process with expertise and understanding. Simply call our offices or fill out our contact form. We also serve New Orleans and all of South Louisiana.
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