Sometimes this part of our practice is exciting and fun, like an adoption; sometimes it is difficult and trying, like a custody battle. Either way, we can help make your family stronger. Even if your family is dividing by divorce, we can create stability. Even if your family is just you and a newborn, we can create security. The legal process is complicated and nuanced. We can guide you through it.
Alexandria, Louisiana
Family Law Attorney
Family is everything. We believe the foundation of society is the family. If families are strong, the community is strong. That is why we truly enjoy helping families with legal issues.
I have been using Mr. Jones as my family attorney for the last five years. He has helped me with my divorce, child custody, and child support issues. I have been very pleased with his services, as he has always been honest with me, respectful, and fair toward all sides.
~ Emilia
Divorce
Divorce is never easy. Whatever got you to the point of seeking a divorce lawyer has undoubtedly been hell. We hate that you are here, but we are happy to help you navigate the storm. There are typically five categories to address in a divorce: 1) a judgment of divorce, 2) child custody, 3) child support, 4) spousal support, and 5) community property. Each category has tremendous consequences on the rest of your life. Every detail requires scrutiny. We will do it together. We will explain all of the relevant procedures and laws so you can make the best decisions for your future.
This includes stabilizing your children, maintaining your financial freedom, protecting your assets, and most importantly, helping you find peace of mind.
Custody
Nowadays, the majority of children come from split households. It is the norm. But this does not have to be traumatic for the children. With proper co-parenting, kids from split households can live totally normal lives. But it must be handled properly. Let me address the negative possibilities: a child who constantly hears dad bad-mouthing mom can develop psychological imprints of how men treat women. That child can grow into an adult with confidence problems and serious relationship issues. Most directly, that child will grow to resent the bad-mouthing dad. Surely you don’t want that for your kids. So, perhaps the most important part of my job is to aid, if not force, co-parenting.
If both are “good parents” we fight for significant and quality time with both sides. If substance abuse arises, we push for sobriety. If domestic abuse has happened, we fight for limited exposure, safeguards for the children, and consequences for the perpetrator. Every case and every custody arrangement is different.
Child Support
In all things, children should not be the victims of a divorce or separation. This is especially true when it comes to finances. Child support is designed to make sure the children keep the same standard of living available to them as if their parents remained together.
Calculating the proper amount of child support is a science. It is important to protect both parents’ financial security. Children have two homes, and both homes have budgets. Properly calculating a support obligation in accordance with law should stabilize the entire family unit.
Adoptions
Bringing families together through adoption is easily the most rewarding part of my job. We believe that fostering or adopting a child is the most noble act a human being can do. It would be my great privilege to help you.
We have celebrated adoptions with countless families. The process can take a few months, but the rewards are immeasurable.
Have a question?
Have a few common questions you need answered immediately? Be sure to visit our Frequently Asked Questions page for some answers pertaining to the cost and availability of Jones Law Partners.
If you’d like to know how much it will cost to consult or retain them for your family, traffic, or injury cases, please visit our FAQs or contact us immediately.
Don’t see a question you need answered? Send us a message below.
Family Law Attorney Cost:
Most lawyers do not disclose their pricing. This means a client ends up receiving bill after bill from their lawyer and no way to know how much a case will cost in the end. We give full disclosure up front so you can budget accordingly. There are no hidden fees in our office.
Marital Law:
- Pre-nuptial Agreement $300 – $1,000
- Post-Nuptial Agreement $1,500 – $3,500
Divorce / Custody:
- Uncontested Divorce $1,000
- Divorce with Child Custody $3,500 – $5,000
- Divorce with Alimony $2,500 – $5,000
- Divorce with Community Property $3,500 – $10,000
- All/Combination of the above $3,500 – $10,000
The fees above do not include expenses outside of our office, such as court costs, subpoena costs, property appraisals, etc. Those expenses typically range from $400 to $1,000.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does family law cover in Louisiana?
Family law deals with legal issues involving family relationships. This can include divorce, child custody, child support, adoption, spousal support, and other matters that affect parents, children, and married couples. These cases are handled in family courts and often involve decisions that affect both financial and personal aspects of a family’s life.
2. What types of cases are handled in family court?
Family courts handle a wide range of legal matters involving families. Common cases include divorce proceedings, custody disputes, child support orders, adoption cases, and requests to modify existing court orders. These cases often involve decisions about parenting responsibilities, financial support, and the well being of children.
3. How does a family law case begin in Louisiana?
Most family law cases begin when one person files a petition with the court. This document asks the court to address a specific issue, such as divorce, custody, or support. After the petition is filed, the other party must be formally notified so the case can move forward through the legal process.
4. How do courts decide family law cases involving children?
When children are involved, courts focus on what is in the best interest of the child. Judges may consider factors such as the child’s safety, emotional needs, the stability of each parent’s home, and each parent’s ability to provide care and support.
5. Can parents reach agreements without going to trial?
Yes. In many cases, parents are able to reach agreements regarding issues such as custody, visitation, or child support without a full trial. If both parties agree on the terms, the agreement can be submitted to the court for approval and included in a court order.
6. What happens if parents cannot agree on custody or support?
If parents cannot reach an agreement, the court may hold hearings to review the evidence and listen to both sides. The judge will then make a decision based on the facts of the case and what is believed to be in the child’s best interest.
7. Can family law court orders be changed later?
Yes. In some situations, family law orders can be modified if there has been a significant change in circumstances. For example, changes in income, relocation, or changes in a child’s needs may lead a parent to request a modification of an existing order.
8. What is the difference between child custody and visitation?
Child custody refers to the legal rights and responsibilities for raising a child, including decisions about education, healthcare, and living arrangements. Visitation refers to the time a parent who does not have primary custody spends with the child according to a court ordered schedule.
9. How is child support determined in Louisiana?
Child support is generally calculated using state guidelines that consider the income of both parents and the needs of the child. Courts review each parent’s financial situation and determine a support amount intended to help provide for the child’s living expenses.
10. Do I need a lawyer for a family law case?
While it is possible to represent yourself in a family law case, many people choose to work with a lawyer because these matters can be complex and emotionally challenging. An attorney can help explain the legal process, prepare required documents, and represent your interests in court.
