Des Moines Family Lawyer

Compassionate Representation For Your All Family Law Needs

Going through a divorce or a child custody battle is an emotional and sensitive time. You need an experienced Des Moines family lawyer you can trust to provide sound guidance and compassionate representation throughout your case.

With over 15 years of family law experience, attorney Amanda T. Adams at Law Offices of Amanda T. Adams represents clients in various family law cases in Iowa and Illinois. She understands how difficult and stressful family law cases can be, from divorce to domestic violence. The decisions made in family court can impact generations and change the lives of entire families. If you need help, contact our office today to schedule a free case evaluation.

Helping You Take The Next Step Toward Your New Future

Iowa family law encompasses a broad range of issues that may arise in family relationships. A knowledgeable family law lawyer in Des Moines can help with a variety of family law matters, including, but not limited to:

• Divorce. Divorce is a contentious and emotionally charged process. However, with a Des Moines divorce lawyer by your side, it should be as low-stress as possible, and you’ll have legal and emotional support throughout your divorce proceedings.
• It may not surprise you to know that Iowa has one of the lowest rates for divorce of any U.S. state, and recent statistics show there are two divorces per every 1,000 residents. However, there’s a lot on the line with divorce matters, and having knowledgeable and compassionate representation is essential. If you were served with divorce papers, consider contacting a trusted attorney to discuss important first steps.
• Alimony and Spousal Support. Iowa’s spousal support (or alimony) is a financial agreement ordered by the court to provide monetary support to the lower-earning spouse as a way to help them maintain financial stability after the dissolution of a marriage. Alimony can be ordered for either spouse for either a limited or indefinite period of time.
• Child Custody and Child Support. Each child custody and child support case is unique, and an experienced attorney can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. They can listen to your goals for your family and ensure your voice is heard.
• You can quickly estimate the amount you might expect in Iowa for child support, but a licensed Des Moines attorney can provide you with a more accurate estimate. Additionally, they can help you explore any questions you have about child custody and support.
• Child Relocation. There are legal complexities involved when it becomes necessary to relocate a child, and an experienced attorney can explain this extensive legal process. Parties are often encouraged by Iowa judges to create an arrangement that works well enough for both parties. The goal is often to protect your rights while maintaining the best interests of your child.
• An attorney can discuss your options, create a relocation plan, and provide reliable legal assistance to allow you to make an informed decision based on your own family’s interests.
• Same-Sex Divorce. Iowa has a relatively small population (about 3.2 million) and same-sex couples represent just a small fraction of the state’s overall population. Yet, same-sex marriage has been recognized legally in our state since 2009 as a result of the Iowa Supreme Court’s decision in Varnum v. Brien, which made Iowa the third U.S. state to legalize same-sex marriage.
• Since 2009, Iowa’s same-sex couples have had the same rights to marry and divorce as opposite-sex couples. Statistically, the divorce rate among same-sex couples is often lower than opposite-sex couples, which may be because they’ve been in longer, more stable relationships before getting the right to marry. If you need assistance with a same-sex divorce, an experienced family law attorney can help
• Post-Divorce Issues. Circumstances can quickly change after a divorce is finalized with an Iowa court, and if you need help modifying an existing court order, an experienced attorney can help. An attorney can help adjust child support payments, spousal support, or a visitation agreement when circumstances change. An attorney can preserve your post-divorce goals if your situation changes and you need to modify an existing order with the court.
• Adoption. Nearly any adult in Iowa over 18 can adopt a child , regardless of their marital status. A prospective adoptive parent is required to undergo a background check and a home study in order to ensure a safe/supportive environment exists for the adoptive child. A knowledgeable attorney can explain the process and help build a compelling portfolio to help with the success of your adoption plan.
• Grandparent Rights. Under Iowa’s laws, a grandparent or great-grandparent may petition a court for visitation rights with their grandchildren/great-grandchildren but only in the unfortunate and limited circumstances where their adult child is deceased. Also, they must show evidence to the court of a substantial relationship with the grandchild to demonstrate visitation rights are in the best interest of the child.
• Mediation. Alternative dispute resolution can often help you avoid formal court proceedings and is typically a lower-cost option for families resolving disputes. An attorney can represent your interests at mediation and resolve your family’s legal matter outside the courtroom.
• Name Changes. If you need help changing your name as part of a divorce in Iowa or with a petition, an attorney can ensure you have prepared the appropriate paperwork to complete a legal name change.
• Domestic Violence. Domestic violence means committing assault against individuals with a specific relationship to you. Assault is a crime in Iowa and can result in a protective order. If you or a loved one has been the victim of domestic violence, contact a trusted attorney right away to confidentially discuss first steps and for domestic violence resources.

The legal process can be overwhelming. Aside from navigating steps and procedures unfamiliar to many, you must make decisions that can have lasting impacts on your future. If you need reliable legal help with any of the family law matters detailed above, consider contacting a competent Des Moines family lawyer.

Reasons to Consider Retaining a Family Lawyer

Once you partner with a trusted lawyer, they can help you take proactive measures to increase your likelihood of success with a family law matter. Each case is different, and an experienced Des Moines family attorney can tailor their legal advice to your specific situation.

They can help build a compelling case to represent your interests by gathering evidence, speaking with witnesses, and preparing appropriate legal filings. If necessary, they can represent your interests in court. An attorney can provide frequent communication with case updates, and you should feel comfortable asking questions throughout your representation. If you need help protecting your rights, consult a trusted attorney to discuss your situation confidentially.

Contact the Law Offices of Amanda T. Adams – A Des Moines Family Law Attorney You Can Trust To Be There For You

If you face a family law issue in Illinois or Iowa, work with an attorney you can trust to advocate for your interests and protect your rights. When you find an attorney you can trust, it is easy to continue going back to them for any legal issues that arise in your life. At Law Offices of Amanda T. Adams PLLC, we provide versatile representation and a lifetime of assistance with your legal needs.

At Law Offices of Amanda T. Adams PLLC, we believe in clear and fast communication with our clients. If you have questions or concerns, we can answer promptly and work to ensure that you are comfortable with each step of your case.

With offices in Johnston, Iowa, and Crystal Lake, Illinois, we can help clients throughout both states find resolutions that put them on a better path to a new future. At our Iowa office, parking won’t be an issue—you’ll likely find plenty of spaces right at the building.

Contact Amanda T. Adams Law Office today by calling 815-250-7084 or completing an online contact form. After-hours appointments are available upon request. For your convenience, we can help clients in both English and Spanish. Contact the Law Offices of Amanda T. Adams to set up an initial consultation to discuss your Des Moines family matter.