Since you are reading this I can assume you are either contemplating or have decided to divorce your spouse.  Or you are currently divorced/separated and having problems with this new relationship. 

Most people who marry or enter into a committed relationship will divorce or separate.  Being divorced myself I firmly believe it to be (and often is) the most stressful time in one's life.  It is not unusual for depression to accompany the stress.  If you find yourself in this position (and most do) it is very important that you get help.  This can be as simple as having a close friend to talk with but often requires professional counseling or possibly visiting with a minister.  Again, getting help to get through this time will help your lawyer better counsel you regarding options that might be available.

I have seen many Lawyer Websites that attempt to discuss the many elements of a divorce/separation on their websites.  I personally do not believe that one size fits all and thus choose to not attempt to provide information on my website.  There is a lot of information on the web regarding how divorce works and certainly this can be helpful.  I strongly recommend one meets with a professional to discuss your own individual situation.  I and many other lawyers will meet with you the first time at no cost to discuss your situation.  In addition I will talk with you on the phone although it would not be in detail. 

Today it is not unusual for couples to start a family before marriage.  If this is the type of relationship you have chosen there are number of legal issues that need to considered.  First, just because there is a birth certificate this does not establish paternity and therefore provide for all the  responsibilities of being a parent.  Paternity must be establish via the court for such things as child support and visitation to be established.  This needs to be accomplished to protect the children who did not choose this type of a relationship but rather can suffer if not considered.

A significant part of my practice involves family law and I find that most people need a great deal of patience and direction in sorting out options available.  One must remember the courts often only see the parties briefly and need help in ascertaining what should be done.  It is the job of a competent lawyer to provide the court with good choices and solutions.

Lastly, when there are children many people lose site of who really is at risk.  It is my position that everything must be done realizing the children are by far the most important consideration.  Both parties must not confuse their own anger and disappointment seeking retribution and financial gains that might jeopardize the welfare of the children.  Parties much deal with each other often for 18 or more years after a divorce/separation working together for the benefit of THEIR children.