Child Custody Law Changes
Recently, in Missouri, there is new legislation enacted into law that providesthat when determining child custody arrangements, ” a rebuttablepresumption that an award of equal or approximately equal parenting time toeach parent is in the best interest of the child. The presumption can berebutted only by a preponderance of the evidence in accordance with allrelevant factors…”This is a marked change from the…
The Divorce Process
When one or both parties decide to file for dissolution of marriage, the otherparty will usually hire an attorney to file an Answer and possibly a Counter-Petition for Dissolution of Marriage. In many cases, the parties will exchangeinformation through a process called discovery, whereby interrogatories(written questions) and a request for production of documents are sent to theother party to answer…
Why Consider Mediation?
Mediation is a process whereby parties meet with a third-party neutralmediator, usually an attorney, who will attempt to assist them in resolvingthe issues that may exist regarding asset and debt division, maintenance,child custody, child support, and the payment of attorneys fees. Frequently,the mediation process will be attorney-assisted, meaning each party would beaccompanied by their respective attorneys, although mediation does not…
What is an Initial Consultation?
An initial consultation is a meeting to discuss the facts and circumstances ofyour marital situation with a lawyer. We will also discuss what the law is inMissouri in regard to asset and debt division, maintenance, child custody,child support, and the payment of attorneys fees. We believe that, in thesecases, knowledge is power. In our consultation, we will discuss the pros…
F. Richard “Rick” Van Pelt Named to 2020 Best Lawyers in America for Family Law
F. Richard “Rick” Van Pelt has been selected for inclusion in the 2020 edition of Best Lawyers in America in the field of Family Law. The U.S. New.s – Best Lawyers in America rankings are based on a rigorous process that includes peer review. F. Richard “Rick” Van Pelt has been listed in the Best Lawyers in America publication each…
Law Firm Of Van Pelt & Van Pelt, P.C. Awarded The U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms” For Family Law For 2020
The Law Firm of Van Pelt & Van Pelt, PC, has been awarded the highest national ranking of Tier I in the 2020 issue of the U.S. News – Best Law Firms for Family Law, for the ninth consecutive year. Firms included in the 2020 “Best Law Firms” are recognized for professional excellence with rankings from clients and peers. The…