Dedicated Northeast Ohio Divorce Lawyer
Helping People Find Solutions to Family Law Disputes
If you are considering filing for divorce or are a party to a marital breakup, an experienced attorney who understands the law, who will help you identify your options and who will provide you with an honest assessment of the potential outcome of your case is crucial. During such a stressful time, you want an attorney who recognizes that your situation is unique and who will take the time to understand the circumstances you are facing.
At the Law Offices of Andrew J. Simon in Independence, I have over 21 years of experience working with men and women in all divorce-related matters. I work closely with each of my clients to discover solutions that minimize or avoid the financial and emotional costs of trial.
While we can explore routes that avoid litigation, I will stand up for your rights and will take your case to trial, if that is in your best interest. I take pride in being able to develop strategies that resolve cases efficiently, while always remaining prepared for litigation should the situation demand it. Contact my offices for a meeting to discuss your divorce, custody or visitation concerns.
Grounds for Divorce in Ohio
In Ohio, divorce can be granted on fault or no-fault grounds.
There are two no-fault divorce grounds:
- living separate and apart for over one year
- incompatibility - it is important to note that, in Ohio, you can only obtain a divorce on this ground if your spouse consents; that is, they have to agree with you that you are incompatible
There a number of fault grounds, including:
- gross neglect of duty
- extreme cruelty
- adultery
- habitual drunkenness
- imprisonment
- abandonment
I guide individuals through all the stages of a divorce, from the initial filing and temporary determinations of child custody, visitation, child support and spousal support to negotiated settlements and trial, if necessary. Regardless of fault, divorce involves often raises additional issues for which I provide sound, knowledgeable legal advice:
- Child custody and visitation. I will explain to you the difference between a sole custody with visitation arrangement and a shared parenting plan, and help you establish and implement a parenting plan that considers the best interests of your children while still protecting your rights as a parent. I will also work to ensure that child support obligations are consistent with the parenting arrangement.
- Alimony / Spousal support. I will work with you to determine whether alimony is appropriate and, if so, the amount, duration and terms of payments.
- Property division. I will help you analyze your situation as it relates to your assets and debts, and develop a strategy for an equitable distribution that maximizes your award of property, including real estate, investments, retirement funds, and business property acquired.
To schedule a confidential consultation to discuss your divorce or family law concerns, contact my offices or call me at (216) 525-8890. My offices are open from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Evening hours are available by appointment. I accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express.
Law Offices of Andrew J. Simon
6000 Freedom Square Drive
Freedom Square 2, Suite 380
Independence, OH 44131
Phone: (216) 525-8890
Fax: (216) 642-5814