Family Law Attorney
We recognize that domestic troubles are emotionally and financially taxing on the whole family. We provide compassionate legal guidance and build a unique strategy that meets your goals as amicably and cost-effectively as possible.
In the intricate landscape of family law, emotions run high, and the need for a compassionate and professional advocate is paramount. As a family law attorney, I understand that family legal matters can be both emotionally taxing and legally complex. With a commitment to empathy and unwavering professionalism, we stand by our clients every step of the way.
Finding the right family law attorney:
A family law attorney is indispensable when dealing with legal matters involving family, but not all family law attorneys measure up. We provide expertise, objective advice, and personalized strategies for issues like divorce and child custody. Beyond legal representation, we offer crucial emotional support, ensuring decisions are legally sound and consider long-term implications. We will be your vital ally in negotiations or court, guiding you with confidence to secure the best outcomes for your family’s future.
★★★★★
“Received the exact help or family needed. Thoroughly explained why the plans we have chosen are beneficial for the future. Did not miss a beat.”
– Allyson J. (Google Review)
Family Law Expertise
A family law attorney provides a range of services to individuals facing legal issues within the realm of family relationships.
Some of the key services include:
Divorce and Legal Separation
Our family law attorneys guide clients through the intricacies of divorce or legal separation proceedings, providing comprehensive legal support to navigate this emotionally charged process.
Child Custody & Visitation
Advocating for the best interests of children, we assist parents in establishing or modifying custody and visitation arrangements, ensuring a stable and nurturing environment for the child.
Child and Spousal Support
Addressing financial considerations, our attorneys help clients determine and negotiate child support and spousal support (alimony) agreements, striving for fair and equitable resolutions.
Prenup & Postnup Agreements
Crafting and reviewing legally sound prenuptial and postnuptial agreements, we assist clients in establishing clear financial and property arrangements before or after marriage.
Adoption
Navigating the legal complexities of adoption, we work to ensure a smooth process, guiding families through the legal requirements to welcome a new member into their home.
Domestic Violence Issues
Our legal team provides compassionate representation in cases involving domestic violence, assisting clients in obtaining protective orders and addressing related legal concerns.
Grandparents’ Rights
Advocating for grandparents seeking visitation or custody, our attorneys work to secure the rights of grandparents in complex family law situations.
Guardianship
We assist in establishing legal guardianship by working to protect the well-being of individuals unable to care for themselves, such as minors or incapacitated adults.
Modification to Court Orders
Responding to changing circumstances, we assist clients in modifying existing court orders related to child custody, support, or other family law matters.
Hi, I’m Chuck Bendig.
“As a family law attorney in Columbus for over 40 years, I understand how deeply personal and emotionally challenging legal issues can be. Whether you’re facing divorce, child custody, support, or other family-related matters, my role is to help you navigate the process with clarity, compassion, and strength. Every family situation is unique, and whether your case is straightforward or complex, I’ll be right there with you, working toward solutions that protect your rights and support your future.”
How a Family Law Attorney Can Help
Choosing the right family law attorney is a crucial decision that can significantly impact the outcome of your case and the well-being of your family. Here are several reasons highlighting the importance of selecting the right family law attorney:
Extensive Experience in Family Law
With years of experience in family law, we possess a deep understanding of the complexities associated with divorce, child custody, spousal support, and other related matters.
Understanding of Local Laws
Family laws can vary significantly from one jurisdiction to another. As a lifetime Columbus resident myself, I’m familiar with the specific regulations and procedures here, ensuring that your case complies with all relevant legal requirements.
Strong Advocacy in Negotiations and Court
Whether at the negotiation table or in the courtroom, we will be a formidable advocate for your rights and interests. We strive to achieve the best possible outcomes for our clients through skilled negotiation and, when necessary, assertive litigation.
Compassionate Resolution Disputes
We understand that amicable resolutions are often the preferred outcome, and we are adept at employing alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach fair and mutually agreeable settlements whenever possible.
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Family Law FAQs
How long does it take to get a divorce in Ohio?
In Ohio, an uncontested divorce (where both parties agree on all terms) can be finalized in as little as 30–90 days. Contested divorces, which involve disputes over assets, custody, or support, may take several months to over a year, depending on the complexity of the case and the court’s schedule.
What’s the difference between legal separation and divorce in Ohio?
Legal separation allows spouses to live apart and establish custody, support, and property agreements without ending the marriage. Divorce, on the other hand, legally ends the marriage. Some couples choose legal separation for religious, financial, or insurance reasons.
How is child custody decided in Ohio?
Ohio courts decide custody based on the best interests of the child, considering factors like each parent’s involvement, living situation, willingness to co-parent, and the child’s needs. Shared parenting is common, but not guaranteed. The court may also consider the child’s wishes, especially if they are over age 12.
Do mothers always get custody in Ohio?
No. Ohio law does not favor mothers over fathers in custody cases. Both parents are considered equally, and decisions are made based on the child’s best interests, not the parent’s gender.
What is “shared parenting” in Ohio?
Shared parenting means both parents have legal responsibility and decision-making power, even if the child lives primarily with one parent. It doesn’t necessarily mean equal time, but it does promote involvement from both parents in the child’s life.
How is child support calculated in Ohio?
Ohio uses a formula that factors in both parents’ income, the number of children, healthcare and childcare costs, and the amount of parenting time each parent has. The Ohio Child Support Calculator is often used as a starting point, but courts can deviate based on special circumstances.
Can I modify a custody or support order later?
Yes. Ohio allows custody and support orders to be modified if there is a substantial change in circumstances, such as a job change, relocation, or change in the child’s needs. You must petition the court to request a modification.
Do I need a lawyer for a divorce in Ohio?
While it’s not legally required, having an experienced Ohio family law attorney like Charles Bendig ensures that your rights are protected, especially when it comes to property division, parenting plans, and long-term support issues. Mistakes or oversights in a DIY divorce can be costly to fix later.
How is property divided in a divorce in Ohio?
Ohio is an equitable distribution state, meaning marital property is divided fairly—but not always equally. Courts consider the duration of the marriage, income of both spouses, contributions to the household, and other relevant factors. Separate property (like an inheritance) may not be divided.
Can I get spousal support (alimony) in Ohio?
Possibly. Ohio courts consider factors like the length of the marriage, the income and earning potential of each spouse, and contributions made to the household (including child-rearing). Spousal support is not guaranteed and varies case by case.
