Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.
Free. Takes 2 min.
Des Moines, United States Attorneys in related practice areas.
Browse our 6 legal questions about Family in United States and the lawyer answers, or ask your own questions for free.
Family law in Des Moines is governed by both Iowa state law and local regulations, and deals with various legal matters related to marriage, divorce, child custody, child support, alimony, and adoption. These laws serve to protect the rights of family members, maintain order in family affairs, and offer recourse in situations of dispute or misconduct.
In many cases, you may need a lawyer due to difficult or complex personal situations. These may include divorce proceedings, child custody battles, drafting of prenuptial or postnuptial agreements, adoption processes, or resolution of disputes over alimony or child support. A family lawyer can provide legal advice, negotiate on your behalf, and represent you in court, if needed.
Iowa law has specific points that may affect the outcome of family law matters. For example, in divorce cases, Iowa is a 'no fault' state, meaning that you do not have to prove your spouse committed misconduct to file for divorce. Similarly, child custody decisions are based on the best interests of the child, with courts encouraging joint custody whenever possible.
In Des Moines, just as in all of Iowa, courts make child custody decisions based on the best interests of the child. They consider factors like the child's age, health, emotional ties with parents, stability of each parent's home environment, and each parent's willingness to foster a relationship between the child and the other parent.
Child support in Des Moines is calculated based on the non-custodial parent's net income, the number of children they are responsible for supporting, and any special needs of the child/children.
A prenuptial agreement is a legally binding document that a couple prepares before getting married, outlining how assets will be divided in the event of a divorce or separation.
Yes, a prenuptial agreement can be challenged in court. The grounds for such a challenge can include fraud, duress, lack of full disclosure, or if it is found to be unfairly one-sided.
The process for adoption in Iowa involves several steps, including filing an application, completing a home study, matching with a child, and then finalizing the adoption legally.
There are numerous resources available for those seeking legal advice in the field of family law in Des Moines. The Polk County Bar Association offers a lawyer referral service. The Iowa State Bar Association offers general legal education materials. Helpful government resources include the Iowa Department of Human Services and the Polk County Clerk of Court.
If you are in need of legal assistance related to family law, your first step should be to seek legal counsel. Research lawyers in the Des Moines area who specialize in family law and set up consultations to determine who might be the best fit for your situation. These initial consultations can help you understand your legal options and what course of action is best for your specific circumstances.
