Family Law Attorneys in Huntsville, Alabama

Huntsville Family Lawyers

Huntsville, AL

1500 Perimeter Parkway,
Suite 275
Huntsville, AL 35806
(256) 445-9206

Family Law Attorneys in Huntsville, Alabama

Welcome to our family law firm located in Huntsville, Alabama! Our experienced team of attorneys in our Huntsville family law office is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality legal services in all areas of family law, including divorce, child custody, child support, and more. We understand the complexities and sensitivities of family law matters and are here to guide you through them with compassion and professionalism.

If you have questions or need help with a family law concern in Huntsville, Alabama, we are here to help. At The Law Offices of Charlotte Christian and Associates, we represent individuals and families, guiding them through the process and representing them in Huntsville family law proceedings. We provide compassionate and caring legal guidance, helping families understand their options so they can take action. We can advocate for you from start to finish.

Contact our Huntsville family law team today for a private, no-obligation evaluation. We can discuss your concerns, next steps, and the possible outcomes of your case. Then, our team can answer your questions and go to work for you.

Get started by calling (256) 859-7277 or filling out our online form today.

We Can Handle Your Huntsville Family Law Needs

At The Law Offices of Charlotte Christian and Associates, our Huntsville family law attorneys work to save our clients money, seek the best possible outcomes for their children, and ensure their voices get heard. We present strong evidence and a convincing argument to show their side of the case, giving the judge information necessary to rule on their behalf when a court appearance proves necessary.

Our lawyers represent individuals and families navigating family law matters throughout Huntsville, as well as across Madison County, Limestone County, and other areas of Alabama. We can help you understand and pursue a divorce, child custody case, or divorce modification. We can protect your rights and ensure a fair process. Our compassionate team does not want you to go through this challenging time alone.

We know how to help clients in divorces involving high assets, professional degrees, stay-at-home parents, custody disputes, abuse, drug or alcohol use, and more. We provide the support and care you need while advocating for your best interests and navigating the legal system for you. We want to ensure the judge recognizes your voice and your point of view.

What Encompasses Family Law in Huntsville?

Family law is an area of law practice that deals with issues faced by families, such as marriage, divorce, child-rearing, adoption, and custody. County civil courts generally handle family law proceedings.

Our firm handles many family law cases in Huntsville. Some of the matters we handle include:

Huntsville Divorces

When a marriage no longer works for the parties involved and counseling or other options are ineffective, divorce can be the best option. Of course, no one plans to get divorced, but sometimes, doing so is necessary. Our attorneys understand this and want to help our clients navigate the process quickly and painlessly.

We handle uncontested, contested, no-fault, and fault-based divorces. We also represent clients during mediation and at trial when necessary. We fight to ensure the court hears their side of the story and considers their needs when ruling on related matters.

Huntsville High-Asset Divorce

When significant assets or debts are involved in a divorce, it becomes more complex. Alabama law distributes marital assets equitably. Our attorneys know how to document which assets or debts are individual and community property. We build strong arguments to fight for our clients’ best interests in these cases.

We understand how important property distribution is to your financial future and the sentimental and emotional ties to the family home, prized collections, and family heirlooms.

Child Custody in Huntsville

Whether seeking child custody in a dispute or during a divorce, our team helps protect the child’s best interests by presenting evidence on behalf of our clients. We represent families in custody-related concerns, including decision-making, visitation, child support, and more.

We know these can prove emotionally taxing and stressful disputes. But, like you, we want the best outcome for your child. We understand the laws, the factors considered, and how judges in Huntsville most commonly use their discretion in these matters.

Divorce Modifications

Sometimes, you need to alter a previous court order. As your children grow, their needs change. For example, you or their other parent might change jobs or need to move away. Their extra-curricular activities might require a change in the visitation schedule. Alternatively, your spousal support or child support payment could need an adjustment.

Alabama family law judges understand this, and the court system offers a way to petition for a modification of your current orders. The other party may agree (uncontested) or contest the petition. All divorce modifications require a judge’s approval.

Military Divorce in Huntsville

Courts must consider unique factors when one or both spouses are members of the U.S. military. With Redstone Arsenal nearby, Huntsville is home to many U.S. Army soldiers and their families. Spouses in a military divorce can benefit from a lawyer familiar with these cases.

Alimony

Alabama law allows spousal support, often called alimony, under Alabama Code § 30-2-56 and § 30-2-57. This is generally temporary. We can ask for alimony for our clients for a specific reason and for a limited time. This includes finishing education or training for a career, finding a job, renting a new home, or taking other steps now necessary because of the divorce.

In some long-term marriages, we could seek extended alimony.

Huntsville Divorce for Professionals

When one party holds a professional degree, they may want to protect the earning power that comes with it. Alternatively, what if their spouse sacrificed their own goals while they went to school, or the spouse paid for their education? When professionals get divorced, the court must consider many financial factors not heard in other cases. We ensure the court hears our client’s voices in their divorce proceedings.

Uncontested Divorces

Our Huntsville family law team helps spouses navigate an uncontested divorce. We ensure we complete all paperwork correctly and meet the applicable deadlines. Doing so improperly can otherwise delay the process.

The Huntsville Divorce Process

The Huntsville divorce process begins when one party files a complaint in family court.

Alabama law allows individuals to file based on fault or one of two no-fault grounds:

Incompatibility of temperament
Irretrievable breakdown

Once filed, the other party receives the filing notification and has a limited time to respond. Sometimes, the parties already know how they want to split assets, share custody with their children, and address other issues. Alternatively, they can work together to decide on these factors. Mediation or negotiations through their attorneys may be necessary.

If the parties cannot agree, they may contest the divorce and take the case to court. This process takes time. The judge often enters one or more temporary court orders during this period, addressing child custody, support, and visitation.

Once the trial date arrives, the judge in the family law court hears the factors in dispute and decides for the couple. The court only issues a divorce decree, parenting plan, and other court orders once they resolve all disputes.

Equitable Distribution of Property

Under Alabama Code § 30-2-51 and § 30-2-52, Alabama law distributes assets and debts fairly between spouses. However, a fair distribution does not mean equal. The court considers many factors such as each party’s job, earnings, contributions to the household, and more.

This is one of the most contested issues in a divorce, especially if there are significant assets or debts, special collections, or real estate in addition to the family home.

Child Custody in Alabama

Under Alabama Code § 30-3-150, Alabama law almost always prefers joint custody, if possible and within the child’s best interests. The official policy is to support stable and positive relationships with both parents. When judges decide matters related to custody and visitation, they encourage the parents to work together, share responsibilities, and communicate regarding their children’s best interests.

Still, parents cannot always share equally in their kids’ decision-making and physical custody. To this end, the judge must weigh many factors to determine the child’s best interests. Child support depends significantly on visitation and custody.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) in Huntsville Family Law Cases

Our experienced family lawyers provide no-obligation evaluations to those with family law concerns in Huntsville. For now, we also offer our answers to some of the most common questions we hear from our prospective and current clients. Do not hesitate to reach out to our team if you have additional questions or want help based on your unique situation.

Does a Huntsville Divorce Require an Attorney?

Yes. The law is too complicated for you to get divorced, dispute child custody, or modify a previous order without legal representation. Moreover, most people consider working with a family law firm or consulting with a Huntsville family law attorney—for good reason.

A divorce rarely proves simple. Emotions can get in the way of logical decision-making. The outcome affects your financial health, children’s well-being, and many other aspects of your everyday life. We always recommend at least a consultation to learn if your case is more complex than you realize.

In a contested divorce involving children, we always recommend hiring a lawyer. The stakes are often too high to handle your case alone.

Does Alabama Have a Waiting Period for Divorce?

Alabama does have a waiting period. At least 30 days must pass after the date of the initial complaint and summons. Only after at least 30 days and an approved agreement or trial will the court grant a divorce. Other timelines and deadlines also apply in these cases. We can discuss what you can expect based on the circumstances of your case during your no-obligation consultation.

What Is the Difference Between a Contested and an Uncontested Divorce?

Courts classify divorces, modifications, and other court petitions as “contested” or “uncontested.” An uncontested petition means the parties agree on all parts of the divorce, and the court does not need to address any issues. A contested petition includes at least one disputed factor. In many cases, they contain several areas where the parties do not agree.

For example, spouses may agree they both want a divorce. They may agree the father will keep the house, and the mother will retain primary custody of the children. However, they may not agree on questions related to visitation with the kids, splitting of assets, or if the situation warrants spousal support. The court would consider this a contested divorce.

Will My Huntsville Divorce Have to Go to Trial?

Like most other civil cases, divorces in Huntsville generally settle without going to trial. Instead, the parties talk through agreements or attend mediation where they reach a consensus on any contested matters. Their attorneys then prepare a document outlining their agreements.

A judge must approve any agreements, but your family law attorney can ensure they are appropriate and fair. Generally, the judge will not dispute an agreement if they meet these criteria.

Of course, some divorces go to trial, especially when significant issues block spouses from reaching a compromise. When this occurs, the judge will hear arguments from each side, listen to witness testimony, evaluate evidence, and rule on any disputed matters. The court then issues a decision and decree.

Can We Draw Up Our Own Child Custody Agreements?

In most cases, child custody and visitation schedules settle outside court. The parents agree on decision-making, primary parent responsibilities, and when the child or children will see the other parent. The courts generally accept this in Huntsville and throughout the state of Alabama.

You will want us to write and review your custody agreement to protect your parental rights.

In a divorce or child custody dispute, these agreements will go into the court order approved by the judge to finalize the case. If you decide to modify them on your own after a previous agreement or court order, a Petition to Modify is a good idea. This officially alters the earlier court order to include the new agreement.

Get an Evaluation and Learn How a Huntsville Family Attorney Can Help

We provide no-obligation evaluations for those with pressing family law concerns or questions about their options. We talk with individuals, couples, and families to determine how we can help. We understand many family law issues in Huntsville bring sadness, frustration, fear, and other emotions. Our compassionate team can provide you with answers during a confidential evaluation of your case.

The Benefits of Working With an Experienced Huntsville Family Law Team

Experience has taught us that family law issues are often emotionally draining experiences born from loss. These experiences usually do not afford people the ability to think and act logically and without heavy emotion at the same time. That is why it is crucial to rely on a legal advocate that will care and passionately represent you during your time of need.

Our guiding principles of trust and excellence and our proven track record for exceeding expectations set us apart from our peers. It is what drives our vision of helping families like yours feel secure again, create a new life following a loss, and enjoy the bright future you earned and deserve.

Overview of Huntsville, Alabama

Huntsville is a vibrant city located in northern Alabama. It is known for its high-tech industries and strong economy, as well as its rich history and southern charm. Huntsville has a variety of cultural and outdoor attractions, making it a great place to live and work.

Key Points of Interest in Huntsville, Alabama:

U.S. Space & Rocket Center: The U.S. Space & Rocket Center is a museum and educational center that showcases the history and future of space exploration. It features a variety of exhibits and interactive experiences, as well as the opportunity to see real spacecraft and rockets.
Monte Sano State Park: Monte Sano State Park is a beautiful park located just outside of Huntsville. It features hiking and biking trails, camping facilities, and scenic views of the surrounding mountains.
Huntsville Botanical Garden: The Huntsville Botanical Garden is a 112-acre garden that features a variety of plants and flowers from around the world. It also hosts a variety of events and activities throughout the year.
Twickenham Historic District: The Twickenham Historic District is a beautiful neighborhood in downtown Huntsville that features a variety of historic homes and buildings. It is a great place to explore and learn about the history of Huntsville.
Big Spring Park: Big Spring Park is a beautiful park located in the heart of downtown Huntsville. It features a large spring-fed pond, walking paths, and a variety of events and concerts throughout the year.

For more information about Huntsville, Alabama and its key points of interest, please visit the following links:

Counties Served

Huntsville, AL
Jefferson County
Greene County
Washington County
Lowndes County
Bibb County
Covington County
Chilton County
Autauga County
Etowah County
Shelby County
Montgomery County
Fayette County
Lamar County
Escambia County
Russell County
Lee County
Baldwin County
Randolph County
Mobile County
Conecuh County
Crenshaw County
Dale County
Elmore County
Coffee County
Blount County
Cullman County
Henry County
Pickens County
Butler County
Geneva County
Tallapoosa County
Coosa County
Hale County
Sumter County
Clarke County
Bullock County
Houston County
St. Clair County
Walker County