Lake Charles Divorce Attorney
Divorce will never be easy. Your divorce will probably involve a wide range of issues that must be resolved. No “fault” is required as grounds for divorce in Louisiana, so a divorce may be granted simply because one or both of the parties want one, so long as the parties live separate and apart for the requisite period of time either before or after filing.
In some divorce cases, the parties share a desire to settle matters with as little conflict as possible. Uncontested divorces are always the most cost effective option, and our goal at Sudduth & Associates is to explore simple, cost effective solutions when possible.
Have you decided to divorce your spouse? You don't have to navigate this alone! Contact our Lake Charles divorce attorneys at (337) 282-9003 today for a consultation.
Often, however, the parties cannot or will not agree on simple resolutions to their issues. Hotly contested family law issues usually include child custody and child support, property division, and spousal support, which is commonly referred to as alimony. Contested divorce and child custody disputes can inflict irreparable damage on a family, including the children. No one wants to see a divorce tear, or inflict enormous costs of litigation.
The Lake Charles divorce lawyers at Sudduth & Associates have established a reputation for excellence by helping couples resolve their conflicts amicably even in the most highly contested divorce cases.
The Advantage of a Former Prosecutor on Your Side
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If having someone on your side that gives a 110% and delivers a quality product is important, then James Sudduth III comes with my highest personal recommendation.
“If having someone on your side that gives a 110% and delivers a quality product is important, then James Sudduth III comes with my highest personal recommendation.”
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They truly care about the legal issues I face, and aren't just 'going through the motions.'
“James & his caring team of professionals are a cut above the rest. They truly care about the legal issues I face, and aren't just 'going through the motions.' It's been a tremendous help during this transitional period in my life to have Jame”
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If you're looking for an attorney to fight for you, call James.
“Throughout the entire ordeal, James could not have been more professional, courteous and knowledgeable regarding my employment issue. He was prompt with his responses and could not have shown more compassion for the issue.”
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His passion for helping people sets him apart from any other attorney in this area.
“Smart, driven, direct, passionate. Amazing man, which makes him an amazing attorney. Treated me and my family as if we were a part of his. I am forever grateful for the hard work and dedication he put into my case.”
Contact Our Divorce Lawyers in Lake Charles
When complex family law issues arise in divorce, there are many ways to deal with them. Some will battle it out through bitter and costly litigation, others set aside their personal feelings long enough to work out the details.
Alternative dispute resolution can be a very effective means of settling the issues that accompany a divorce. In fact, mediation over custody is highly encouraged by our legal system.
We are Louisiana divorce attorneys who encourage to the mediation process whenever possible. Louisiana courts tend to be very flexible if the parties are able to “get along” in order to move on with their lives, and we can help you through this process as simply as possible, if that’s what you want.
Does It Matter Who Files for Divorce First in Louisiana?
In Louisiana, either spouse can file for divorce first. There are no advantages to who files for divorce first. The spouse who files first is called the plaintiff, and the other spouse is the defendant. There are some potential advantages to filing for divorce first, such as having more time to prepare for the divorce process, choosing which parish the divorce is filed in, and setting the initial timeframe for the divorce. However, these advantages are relatively minor, and there is no guarantee that the person who files first will have a better outcome in the divorce.
What is a Wife Entitled to in a Divorce in Louisiana?
In Louisiana, a wife is entitled to 50% of community property, including assets like a house, car, and savings account. Community property is property obtained during the marriage. The court will value all of the couple's community property and assets. Each spouse divides the assets to receive half of their community property. Sometimes, the court may order the couple to sell specific assets and split the proceeds equally between the two spouses.
Louisiana Divorce Attorneys Focused on a Fair Resolution - But Prepared to Litigate
Unfortunately, mediation does not work for everyone. Many divorce proceedings will remain contested. If the time comes when it is not in you or your child’s best interest to continue negotiations, you need attorneys thoroughly prepared for aggressive litigation.
Every situation is unique and requires specific attention, because we believe there is a unique solution to fit to every situation. Whether your divorce is an agreeable transition or a battle, we will handle your legal proceedings with care, attention and compassion. If you reside in Calcasieu Parish, your court is our second home.
Our divorce lawyers Lake Charles have spent years getting to know the judges and hearing officers, and will always use our experiences and the court’s tendencies to guide you towards the solution that is best for you. Contact our law firm today for an appointment.
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