Divorce Law in Ohio
How to Find an Ohio Divorce Attorney
Cincinnati, Ohio native and world-renowned film director, producer, and writer, Steven Spielberg, understands both divorce and creating a new reality. We’ve decided to include a Spielberg quote right here, in hopes you find it helpful in your present situation.
All of us every single year, we’re a different person.
I don’t think we’re the same person all our lives.
This article was written to help you take the next step, if you are considering divorce and researching Ohio divorce lawyers. Next year at this time, you can have a whole new fresh life, of your own creation.
In this article (which is based upon Ohio divorce law), we’ll discuss:
- Ohio specific divorce law requirements;
- What you need to know about divorce;
- Whether it’s in your best interest to hire an Ohio divorce lawyer;
- How to find a good divorce lawyer; and
- How to prepare to work with your divorce lawyer.
Ohio Divorce Law Specifics
- Ohio requires that the spouse filing for divorce must have lived in the state for at least 6 months prior to filing for divorce.
- In Ohio, you must state the grounds for divorce when you file. You can choose between “no-fault” and “fault” divorce.
- In Ohio, no-fault divorce means that you and your spouse and have lived separately for at least one year or you are otherwise incompatible.
- In Ohio, fault divorce grounds include bigamy, fraudulent contract, drunkenness, gross neglect of duty, desertion, drug use, abuse and cruelty, and imprisonment.
- Divorce papers must be filed in an Ohio Court of Common Pleas.
- In Ohio, property distribution will be based upon what’s “equitable” (i.e. fair – which is not always equal) and child support will be based the Income Shares Model.
- Spousal support (i.e. alimony) is available in some cases.
What You Need to Know About Divorce
If you follow these 4 tips, you’ll get to your new life faster, cheaper, and with less wear and tear. This is what everyone needs to know about divorce.
- Say, “yes”, unless you have a really good reason for saying “no”. Always be thinking “compromise” and avoid court interference.
- Hire a therapist. Use the therapist, not your divorce lawyer, and not your children, as a sounding board.
- Follow your divorce attorney’s advice and provide all requested information in a timely manner.
- Hire a cooperative divorce attorney.
Is it in Your Best Interests to Work with an Ohio Divorce Lawyer?
- Do Ohio residents hire divorce attorneys? Usually.
- Do Ohio attorneys hire divorce attorneys when they get divorced? Usually.
- Do you legally need to be represented by an attorney? No.
- Is it a good idea to hire a divorce attorney? Yes.
- Why?
- One mistake may cost you hundreds of thousands of dollars.
- One mistake may forfeit your marital rights.
- One mistake may cost you time with your children.
How to Find and Select an Ohio Divorce Attorney
We live in a virtual world. Google “How to Find a Ohio Divorce Attorney” or you can ask people you know for referrals.
Then, when you have several potential attorneys, make your selection by analyzing these qualities:
- Law license in that state of Ohio.
- Legal practice focused on divorce and family law.
- Experience in divorce and family law.
- Cooperative attitude (no overly aggressive shark attorneys allowed).
- The attorney and his or her team make you feel comfortable.
How to Prepare to Work with Your Divorce Attorney
Here is a checklist that will help you to prepare to work with your divorce attorney:
- Consider reconciliation.
- Consult with a therapist.
- Gather financial documents.
- Make a wish list. What do you want out of the divorce?
- Make a list of questions.
Lastly, laugh as often as you can. I have seen what a laugh can do. It can transform almost unbearable tears into something bearable, even hopeful.
– Bob Hope (from Cleveland, Ohio)
