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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.
Yes and no. In most uncontested divorces, only one attorney is involved, but that attorney can only represent one party. The other party is technically unrepresented, and the attorney involved is not the attorney of record for both spouses. However, a skilled divorce attorney will be able to still assist the unrepresented party with working through the case, as well as answer their questions, without actually providing legal advice to that party or breaching their attorney-client relationship with the client.
In Missouri, there is a very strong preference for joint legal (decision making) and joint physical (sharing time with the children) custody arrangements. Note that this does not mean 50/50 parenting time, as there are many different types of schedules under a joint custody arrangement. The court usually defers to the parents in what is in the interests of the children, and there is strong preference among Kansas City area judges that the mother and father come to an agreement regarding custody. If this cannot be done, then the court will determine custody by examining the following: Wishes of the parents, stability of the parents, the need for frequent and meaningful contact with both parents, wishes of the child (if appropriate), the ability of the parents to adequately parent the children, the safety of the home, the parents' work schedules, any history of physical or emotional abuse against any person including the child, any physical or mental conditions that may affect custody, and any other relevant factors.
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.
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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