FAMILY LAW & DIVORCE ATTORNEY IN INDEPENDENCE, MISSOURI
For more than three and a half decades, James Piedimonte, P.C. has provided creative solutions and compassionate service to individuals and families in Blue Springs, Liberty, and Kansas City, Missouri. Schedule a consultation today to get started.
JAMES R. PIEDIMONTE
FAMILY LAW ATTORNEY
PRACTICE AREAS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
At James Piedimonte, P.C., clients come with similar concerns. Here are some frequently asked questions of Attorney Piedimonte.
In Missouri, the court must determine two components to custody: legal and physical. Legal custody refers to decision-making rights and responsibilities relating to the health and education of the child; physical custody refers to how and where the parents will share physical time with the child.
Ultimately, Missouri custody laws require courts to determine what is in the best interest of the children. Some factors the court considers include the ability of the parents to actively perform their parenting functions, the child’s social and emotional adjustment, and the child’s own wishes.
It is possible to modify a divorce decree even after it has been issued. Usually, the reason for modifying a divorce decree arises from a significant change in the circumstances of one, or both, of the parties in the decree.
In Missouri, if you seek to modify a decree, you must demonstrate a substantial and continuing change of circumstances. This may include dramatic changes in income, location of residence, and more.
If you are unable to follow any of the orders issued in the original divorce decree, don’t wait. Seek out a family attorney and request a modification as soon as you can.
Grandparents often seek guidance in legal matters involving their grandchildren. While Missouri law encourages contact between grandparents and their grandchildren, the rights of grandparents to custody and visitation can be difficult to obtain.
The court will award custody to a grandparent if the court finds that grandparent custody is in the best interest of the child, and if the court finds that each parent is unfit or unable to keep custody. Of course, grandparents must also convince the court that they are able to provide an adequate, stable environment for the child.
Divorce doesn't have to be hostile. Instead, it can be a settlement negotiated by the couple themselves. Divorce mediation helps people come to mutually beneficial results that meet each partner’s needs.
First, a mediator helps the couple gather relevant information, including budgets, tax returns, and property valuations. Then, settlement options are developed with the needs and interests of both parties in mind. These are discussed to be sure they are reasonable and fair. Finally, a decision is made on a mediated separation agreement that allows each person involved to move forward with confidence.
CLIENT TESTIMONIALS
Mr. Piedimonte was crucial in getting me through my entire court process for modification of custody and parenting plan. He and his staff were kind and quick to respond to every email, call, and every question I had (and I had lots!) I would recommend this attorney and office to take care of your needs and really guide you through the legal process with great care and wisdom. I am truly thankful for all of their assistance!
James is a true representative of how attorneys should be. Professional, kind, and courteous. I would recommend him to anyone.
JRP listened and explained the process to me, taking into consideration my needs, wants, and made recommendations based on his experience. The rates were very reasonable, they had prompt communication, and I was able to do most of the subsequent communication through email. His staff is responsive and empathetic. He has extensive knowledge, and I would highly recommend his services.
DIVORCE STRATEGIES
LEARN ABOUT EACH METHOD’S BENEFITS AND DRAWBACKS
TRADITIONAL (LITIGATION)
If one side doesn’t have a collaborative mindset or is combative or abusive, you might consider filing for a traditional court divorce. One downside to litigation is the public nature of trial proceedings for you and your family.
AMICABLE (MEDIATION)
The mediation process is facilitated by an unbiased third-party mediator who will not specifically advocate for one side or the other. To be successful, this kind of divorce requires a mutual, good-faith effort from both parties.
COLLABORATIVE DIVORCE
In a collaborative divorce, each spouse is represented by a collaborative divorce attorney. Each party will have an advocate on their side during the collaborative process, which many see as beneficial in the long run.
CHOOSE JAMES PIEDIMONTE AS YOUR FAMILY ATTORNEY
This is a challenging time for you and your family. Issues like divorce, child custody, and paternity bring out so many emotions and frustrations. When the time comes for a divorce or a child custody modification, the last thing anyone wants is added stress.
As a dedicated family law and divorce attorney serving Lee’s Summit, Blue Springs, and Kansas City, James Piedimonte, P.C. strives to provide committed and compassionate legal counsel when you need it the most. Whatever your family legal situation, reach out to James Piedimonte, P.C. today to set up a consultation if you are located in Independence, Lee’s Summit, Blue Springs, Liberty, or Kansas City, Missouri. James provides legal guidance that you can rely on.
For Attorney James Piedimonte, collaboration is key. When you sit down together to discuss your case, he’ll work with you to determine what offers can be made, what settlements sound reasonable, and how you might move forward without stepping foot in court.
Clients wonder how long this process takes. The soonest a divorce case is complete ranges between 60 and 90 days. If it’s a contested divorce, it could take six months or longer. Turn to experienced counsel to help resolve your family matter as smoothly as possible. For Attorney Piedimonte, if it’s important to you, it’s important to him. Reach out for a consultation today with James Piedimonte, P.C., in Independence, Missouri.