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Welcome to the law office of Mark A. Wortman. Mark is a Kansas City divorce and family law attorney with over 23 years of experience. Because Mark focuses only on Missouri divorce and family law — and has put all of his experience in these areas — he has more knowledge and expertise in these areas than a general practice firm. He knows the law, the courts, and probably the opposing counsel. So he knows he can help you.
Mark is the author of the Missouri Divorce and Family Law Blog, which we welcome you to visit. The firm has provided all of the information on this website to be of help to you if you need assistance in a Missouri family law matter.
We work together to provide people going through one of life’s most difficult transitions with the guidance and support they need. We help you understand what to expect, explain your options and the legal process, and ensure that you know you’re not alone in the family law process. We’re at your side every step of the way.
No. If a person is unemployed or underemployed, the courts in the Kansas City area can and usually will "impute," or assign, an amount of income to that person, and require child support to be paid anyway. The court may be somewhat lenient in allowing the person time to become employed, but the position of almost every Kansas City area court is that a child requires financial support, and the parents must find income to satisfy the obligation.
Most of the time, yes. However, some counties, such as Jackson county (Kansas City, MO), will allow a case to be submitted by affidavit as long as one party is represented by an attorney, there are no children, and all property issues have been resolved by written agreement. Any other type of uncontested case will require a brief court appearance to "make a record" of the settlement, is basically a formality to conclude the case.
Contested cases usually require multiple court appearances, but depending on the county and the judge, your divorce attorney may be able to handle all appearances for you.
If the case goes to trial, your appearance is always required.
Being the first to file for divorce does have some advantages, although in most cases it is not particularly relevant. In Missouri, whomever has the children at the time the case is filed is deemed to have temporary custody of the children, which can be an advantage. Also, if the case ends up going to trial, the person who files first (called the Petitioner) will get to present their case to the court first, which in many cases is an advantage. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, being the first to file puts pressure on the Respondent to act or face a default judgment.
Your choice of family law firm can affect your whole future and that of your children. It’s important to work with a law firm that will give you the advice and support you need throughout the legal process, and a strong foundation for your life after your family law case.
Knowledge is power, and we believe that the more you know about family law, the better equipped you will be to make decisions in your case. Review our latest articles.
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