Experienced Canton Divorce Lawyer Protects the Interests of Spouses

Caring Ohio attorney advises on dissolution of marriage proceedings

If you're going through a divorce, you probably have a lot weighing on your mind. At Douglas D. Jones Co., LPA in Canton, I am an accomplished family law attorney dedicated to helping divorcing spouses assert their legal rights no matter what underlying tensions might exist. Drawing on 40 years of experience, I develop strategies designed to secure favorable terms on issues such as child custody, visitation, child support, property division and spousal support. Whether your marriage dissolution is completed through negotiation, mediation or litigation, my firm is committed to building a solid foundation for your future while avoiding unnecessary conflict and cost.

Dedicated firm outlines laws relating to divorce grounds and property division

In every divorce case, understanding your options is essential if you want to make well-informed decisions. I outline various aspects of the state’s divorce law for clients, such as:

• Filing and grounds — An Ohio resident who has lived in the state for at least six months may file for divorce. Many spouses choose to dissolve their union on a no-fault basis by declaring that they have lived apart for a year and there is no possibility of reconciliation. You can also use one of several fault-based grounds such as adultery or extreme cruelty to break your legal bond.
• Annulment — When a marriage falls apart soon after it begins, annulment might sound like an appealing idea to people who want to proceed as if they were never wed at all. However, this option is only for certain instances where the marriage was not valid in the first place, such as where one of the parties was underage, already married or coerced into the union due to threat or misrepresentation.

• Uncontested divorce — Through a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage, Ohio couples can obtain a prompt, uncontested divorce. Within 90 days of filing, a hearing is held and if both sides still agree on all terms and want to terminate their marriage, the settlement document will be incorporated into dissolving the union.
• Division of marital assets and debts — Breaking up with a spouse doesn’t just have emotional consequences, but also requires the couple to dissolve their financial ties. My firm looks to find creative ways to reach consensus on the allocation of marital assets and debts. If not, courts evaluate a variety of factors under the state’s equitable distribution law to reach what the judge feels is a fair outcome. The parties do not have to wind up with shares that are equivalent in value, so it’s important to find an attorney who can advocate effectively on your behalf.  

I understand how contentious divorce and related family law matters can be. Regardless of the negative feelings that might exist, you can count on me to help you get through what might be one of the most challenging times of your life.

Compassionate advocate handles child custody and visitation discussions

Parents want what is best for their children, but sharp disagreements might exist about what that means. When negotiating or litigating issues related to child custody and visitation, I focus on establishing a framework where children’s needs are met and parents are encouraged to discuss key issues honestly and amicably. If that is not feasible, my firm is ready to advocate in court for appropriate arrangements concerning legal authority and residence.

Proven attorney represents parents in child support actions

In most cases, child support within Ohio is based on a formula that takes into account each parent’s income, child-care costs, spousal support payments and health insurance premiums. My firm guides parents during discussions of initial rates as well as proceedings held to consider possible modifications and enforcement actions against nonpaying parents. Depending on your circumstances, I can also advise on arrangements for funding education costs and extracurricular activities.

Firm pursues fair temporary and permanent spousal support terms

Spousal support, often referred to as alimony, can be awarded on a temporary or permanent basis when one spouse has relied on the other for most or all of their outside income. Sometimes, the parties themselves are able to work out a lump-sum amount or payment schedule that gives the recipient time to gain or regain the job skills they need to meet their financial needs. Other times, courts look at several factors, such the duration of the marriage and the couple’s standard of living, to decide what type of spousal support should be granted. 

Contact an accomplished Ohio divorce lawyer to schedule a free consultation  

At Douglas D. Jones Co., LPA, I represent Ohio spouses in divorce proceedings. To meet with a Canton attorney for a free consultation, please call 330-649-2372 or contact me online.