Dissolution and Divorce
As married individuals, you accrue certain rights during the marriage. Though Iowa is a "no fault" divorce state, the decisions that you make as husband and wife during your marriage have an impact on how you divide your "marital" assets and liabilities in the event of a divorce. If there are minor children, the laws of the State of Iowa govern how those children will be supported. Divorce raises many complex issues, not all of which relate merely to an application of the law. Our knowledgeable and empathetic attorneys can assist you through your divorce proceeding.
Property Division and Child Support
Ascertaining the rights of the parties to the various marital assets and liabilities is a complex process. The laws covering support of minor children requires the application of a mandatory set of guidelines to determine the amount of child support. Finally, the determination to file for divorce is often one the most difficult decisions one faces. Knowing that your legal needs are being met allows you the peace of mind necessary in order to focus your attention on the more important personal issues which arise.
Modification and Enforcement of Prior Orders
Remedies are available if a current order is not being obeyed or must be changed to meet current circumstances. In many instances, solving the problem is a simple matter. If the parties can agree to the terms of the modification, and the terms themselves are not contrary to existing law, it may be possible to have the changes made with little cost or difficulty. Whether you need information and representation to file a consensual modification or to enforce a difficult decree, we can advise you fully regarding your options.
Paternity Actions – Establishment and Disestablishment
In Iowa, a man has no obligation for the support of, or right to visit, or right to make decisions for a child, until his paternity has been legally established. If paternity has been legally established and the question arises as to whether the child is the biological child of the father, DNA testing must be performed and steps taken to disestablish paternity. The only way to disestablish paternity in Iowa is through the filing a special disestablishment action. We will be happy to represent you in any action to establish or disestablish paternity.
Contact the law office of Abendroth and Russell, P.C. for an initial consultation to discuss your legal needs. We serve clients in central Iowa, including Des Moines, West Des Moines, Urbandale, Clive, Windsor Heights, Johnston, Waukee, Ankeny, Altoona, Pleasant Hill, Grimes, Norwalk, Indianola, and Adel; and the counties of Polk, Warren, Madison, Dallas, Story, and Marshall. We provide state-wide legal services to protect creditors’ rights in collection proceedings for Iowa businesses and for national companies doing business throughout Iowa.
Abendroth and Russell, P.C.
2536 - 73rd Street
Des Moines, Iowa 50322
Telephone (515) 278-0623 | Fax (515) 276-1563
