Darien Divorce Attorney
Darien has a well deserved reputation as an idyllic place to live. Residents enjoy beaches, parks, and being members of yacht and country clubs as well as other luxuries of a town marked as one of the wealthiest in the area. However, with such wealth and luxury, the potential for more complicated disputes in the event of a divorce may also be high. Darien divorce lawyer Kevin L. Hoffkins helps those who are ending their marriage come to a fair agreement on important issues. Mediations and settlements are the primary goal in these proceedings, however, sometimes litigation is necessary for spouses who cannot agree. Mr. Hoffkins and his team at the Law Offices of Kevin L. Hoffkins are dedicated to offering compassionate and comprehensive legal services to clients during what is often an emotional time. If you need legal advice during, or in anticipation of, divorce proceedings, call our office or contact us online today.
Common Disputes in Darien Divorces
With a population of over 21,000, and a median age of 40 years old, some Darien residents will inevitably be faced with a divorce. In Connecticut, divorces filed either alleging the fault of one spouse, or a petition for a no-fault divorce can be sought following an 18-month separation. Consulting a seasoned Darien divorce lawyer can help you through which filing is appropriate for your situation. Regardless of whether a divorce is fault-based, certain matters need to be determined when dissolving a marriage. The most common issues that arise during divorce proceedings are:
Spousal Support (Alimony)
Division of Property
Child Support
Child Custody and Visitation Rights
In Darien, the median home prices are around $1.5 million. In addition, residents who are members of the Noroton Yacht Club, Ox Ridge Riding and Racquet Club, Darien Country Club, or other clubs in the area may own additional high-valued property such as boats or horses. This can lead to more complicated, and contentious, division of property discussions. Connecticut considers all property owned by either spouse as marital property. This means it is subject to ‘equitable distribution.’ In determining this distribution, courts will not take a strict 50-50 split approach, but rather base their decision on different factors such as the length of marriage, each spouse’s economic standing as well as any custody arrangements and the spouses’ contributions made throughout marriage.
The median household income of Darien in 2019 was $232,523. With higher incomes, there is potential for arguments regarding proper alimony payments as well. A knowledgeable divorce attorney in Darien can help make sure your spousal support is fair and that no assets are being hidden inappropriately. In Connecticut, courts use an “income shares” model to determine child support amounts. This model uses state guidelines to make sure children have the same level of support they would if their parents lived in the same household. However, in some instances, such as if parental income is higher than the limit of the guidelines or when parents have a large income disparity, a deviation from these guidelines can be requested. Child custody and visitation rights can also become complicated in a contentious divorce. A comprehensive Parenting Plan detailing living arrangements and schedules for daily parental responsibilities as well as details regarding dispute resolutions if necessary, is imperative to ensure children have a safe and loving environment.
Divorce Attorney in Darien
The end of a marriage is an emotional and uncertain time. Darien divorce lawyer Kevin L. Hoffkins is committed to helping clients obtain a fast and fair resolution to the family matters that arise throughout proceedings. At the Law Offices of Kevin L. Hoffkins, we are zealous legal advocates for our clients, fighting to make sure they have the proper plan in place that is best for them and their family. If you have questions about your legal rights and options during a divorce, contact us or online to speak with an attorney today.