Family Law

Effective Family Law Advocacy from a Knowledgeable Ohio Attorney

Law firm with offices in Dayton and Columbus advises on domestic disputes

Family legal issues demand an experienced lawyer who knows how to deliver strong results while respecting his clients’ emotional concerns. At Dean Edward Hines Co., LPA, we represent individuals in Central and Southwest Ohio in a complete range of family matters including divorces, domestic violence cases, and juvenile justice litigation. For each type of challenge, we provide personalized advice designed to protect you and your loved ones using each available tool under Ohio law.

Skilled representation for husbands and wives going through a divorce

Dean Edward Hines Co., LPA advises clients in the Dayton and Columbus areas on every aspect of Ohio divorce, including:

  • Filing and grounds — Ohio law allows spouses to file for divorce by alleging fault or by seeking dissolution on a no-fault basis, where a party states that the union is irretrievably broken. You need to have resided in the state for at least six months to file.
  • Property and debt division — Assets acquired during a marriage are subject to equitable distribution under state law. If you and your spouse cannot reach an agreement, the court will divide marital property based on what the judge believes is fair, though that is not necessarily an even split. Factors such as the length of the marriage and the parties’ future earning ability can affect the court’s ruling.
  • Spousal support — In Ohio, what used to be known as alimony is now referred to as spousal support. These payments can be issued temporarily while a divorce is pending or after a marriage ends for a specific duration or permanently. Judges take fourteen factors into consideration when determining spousal support.

For each matter in dispute, we draw on our knowledge and experience to pursue a positive result that protects your family and allows you to start a new chapter confidently.

Working to establish fair child custody and parenting time agreements

Even when other aspects of a breakup are hotly contested, it is desirable to seek consensus concerning children. Shared parenting, sometimes called joint custody, allows both parents to maintain responsibility for housing their child and gives each the authority to make important decisions concerning their child’s welfare. When a custody matter goes to court, a judge will make determinations based on what he or she believes is in your child’s best interests. Our firm fights on behalf of parents and children to preserve family bonds and set appropriate visitation terms for noncustodial parents.

Diligent lawyer protects rights of clients in domestic violence cases

Allegations of domestic violence must be taken seriously to protect parties at risk. If you are in a relationship that has been marred by the use or threat of physical force, immediate action is necessary. We battle to protect the safety and legal rights of clients through criminal court and equitable proceedings relating to orders of protection.

Providing legal support for youths facing charges in juvenile court

When a child is accused of a crime or another type of delinquent act, families can be thrown into turmoil. At Dean Edward Hines Co., LPA, we defend juveniles against charges and advise clients on the wide range of sanctions available under the Ohio juvenile justice system. If a young person in your family has been taken into custody, we can advocate strongly for an appropriate alternative to detention.

Contact an experienced Ohio family law attorney for a free initial consultation

Dean Edward Hines Co., LPA represents Ohioans in family law matters. Please call 937-439-5708 or contact us online for a free consultation at our Dayton or Columbus office.