Family Law

At James, Carter & Coulter, PLC, our attorneys provide legal advice, representation and litigation in an array of family law areas. We realize domestic matters , often involve highly emotional and sensitive issues. The legal decisions made will have a long-lasting impact, influencing the future and setting parameters for your quality of life. We focus our efforts in assisting clients to 
resolve the following types of family legal concerns:

Divorce

In Arkansas, there are multiple grounds for divorce. Furthermore, strict guidelines must be followed when filing for divorce. As your attorneys, we will file the necessary documentation, answer your questions and handle the divorce process for you. In a contested divorce, we work on your behalf through a negotiated settlement or trial if necessary.

Child Custody

Child custody arrangements may be arrived at through a negotiated agreement of both parents or by court ruling when an agreement cannot be reached. The best interest of the child is always the main consideration in any custody hearing. The court will consider both parents equally and base its decision on a number of factors.

Child Support

Child support is calculated based on a numerical formula that takes into account the net income of the parent paying support and the number of children. In some instances, a court may  deviate from the formula and take into consideration other issues when making child support determinations.

Alimony/Spousal Support

Similar to other divorce issues, the divorcing couple can arrive at an agreement for alimony, or the court may award it. The court may also order that alimony should cease if there is remarriage or a relationship equivalent to remarriage is established or a relationship is established that produces a child or children.

Property Division

Property division is based on equitable distribution in Arkansas, which means that the court will distribute one-half of the marital property to each spouse unless there are reasons this would be unfair or not equitable. Again, issues regarding property and debt may be settled by couples outside of court or subject to court ruling when settlement is not possible.

Prenuptial Agreement

We assist couples that are planning to marry to draw up a prenuptial agreement, which is a marital contract that predetermines how finances, assets and debts will be handled once the couple is married. A prenuptial agreement can help avoid later misunderstandings that could negatively impact a couple’s marriage.

Post Decree Modification

People move, change careers, get married and any number of life changes can occur that make post decree modification appropriate regarding child custody, child support and alimony. Our attorneys routinely assist clients with their post decree modification needs.

Enforcement

When child support or alimony is not paid, or an ex-spouse does not adhere to court rulings regarding other domestic issues, enforcement may become necessary. As your attorneys we can provide you with the necessary legal assistance to see that court orders are carried out.

We welcome the opportunity to be of service. To arrange a consultation to discuss your family law issues, please phone our office at 866-716-3242 or contact us online through our website.