Divorce and separation are rarely easy. These life transitions bring a whirlwind of emotions, complex decisions, and legal challenges. Whether you’re contemplating divorce, navigating child custody disputes, or seeking spousal support, having experienced legal guidance can make all the difference.
At Knochel Law Firm, we’ve been helping families in Bullhead City and the Tri-State area navigate divorce and family law matters for over 35 years. We understand the emotional toll these situations can take, and we’re committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation to guide you through this challenging process.
Divorce in Arizona: Understanding the Basics
Arizona is a “no-fault” divorce state, meaning you don’t need to prove grounds like adultery or cruelty to get a divorce. The most common ground for divorce is “irreconcilable differences,” which essentially means the marriage is irretrievably broken.
Here are some key aspects of divorce in Arizona:
- Residency Requirement: At least one spouse must have been a resident of Arizona for at least 90 days before filing for divorce.
- Community Property: Arizona is a community property state, meaning any assets and debts acquired during the marriage are generally considered to be owned equally by both spouses and will be divided equally in a divorce.
- Divorce Process: The divorce process typically involves filing a petition for dissolution of marriage, serving the other spouse, exchanging financial disclosures, negotiating a settlement (if possible), and attending court hearings.
Child Custody in Arizona
When children are involved, child custody becomes a central issue in divorce proceedings. Arizona courts determine custody based on the “best interests of the child.”
Factors considered include:
- The child’s age and health
- Each parent’s ability to provide care
- The child’s relationship with each parent
- The child’s wishes (if they are of a suitable age and maturity)
- Any history of domestic violence or abuse
Types of Custody:
- Legal Custody: The right to make decisions about the child’s upbringing, including education, healthcare, and religious upbringing. Legal custody can be sole or joint.
- Physical Custody: Where the child lives. Physical custody can also be sole or joint.
Child Support in Arizona
Child support is a payment made by one parent to the other to help with the financial costs of raising a child. Arizona has child support guidelines that consider each parent’s income and the amount of time the child spends with each parent.
Key Factors:
- Gross Income: Both parents’ incomes are considered when calculating child support.
- Parenting Time: The amount of time the child spends with each parent affects the support obligation.
- Child’s Needs: The child’s needs, such as healthcare and education expenses, are also factored in.
Spousal Maintenance (Alimony) in Arizona
Spousal maintenance, also known as alimony, may be awarded to one spouse to help them maintain their standard of living after the divorce. The court considers several factors when determining alimony, including:
- Length of the marriage
- Earning capacity of each spouse
- Contributions to the marriage
- Age and health of each spouse
Property Division in Arizona
In Arizona, community property is generally divided equally between the spouses in a divorce. This includes assets like:
- Real estate
- Bank accounts
- Retirement accounts
- Vehicles
Separate property, which includes assets acquired before the marriage or through inheritance or gifts, is generally not subject to division.
Other Family Law Matters
Knochel Law Firm also handles a variety of other family law matters, including:
- Legal separation
- Paternity
- Adoption
- Child custody modifications
- Child support enforcement
- Domestic violence
Why Choose Knochel Law Firm for Your Divorce or Family Law Case?
- Experience: We have over 35 years of experience representing clients in divorce and family law matters in Bullhead City and the surrounding areas.
- Local Knowledge: We have a deep understanding of Arizona family law and the local court system.
- Compassionate Representation: We understand the emotional challenges of family law cases and provide compassionate support and guidance.
- Effective Advocacy: We’re skilled negotiators and litigators who will fight to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
- Convenient Locations: We have offices in Bullhead City, Kingman, and Lake Havasu City to serve you.
Statistics: A Look at Divorce and Family Law in Arizona
- Divorce Rate: Arizona has a divorce rate of approximately 11.8 per 1,000 people, slightly higher than the national average. (CDC)
- Child Custody: In Arizona, approximately 70% of custody orders grant sole custody to the mother, while 30% grant joint custody. (Arizona Supreme Court)
- Child Support: The average monthly child support order in Arizona is around $430. (U.S. Census Bureau)
Contact Knochel Law Firm Today
If you’re facing a divorce or other family law matter in Bullhead City or the surrounding areas, don’t hesitate to contact Knochel Law Firm. We’re here to provide experienced, compassionate, and effective legal representation.
