Responsive To Your Family Law Needs
At Downs Law Firm in Edwardsville, I provide comprehensive legal support for a wide range of family law matters, including divorce, child custody, and orders of protection. I understand that navigating family legal issues can be overwhelming, and I am here to guide you through every step of the process with care and professionalism.
As a sole practitioner, you will work directly with me throughout your case. I am committed to delivering honest, straightforward advice while remaining attentive to your specific needs. My goal is to help you achieve a fair and efficient resolution to your legal concerns.
With over 25 years of legal experience, I bring extensive knowledge to every case. I am also a certified family law mediator and have served as a Guardian ad Litem in numerous family and probate matters. You can trust me to provide the dedicated and responsive representation you deserve.
Issues I Can Help You Resolve
At Downs Law Firm, I am dedicated to understanding your unique situation and will vigorously advocate for your best interests. Family law matters are often deeply personal and emotionally charged, and having an experienced attorney by your side can make all the difference. I am here to guide you through the legal process, address your concerns, and work toward a resolution that meets your needs.
I handle a wide range of family law issues, including:
- Divorce (both contested and uncontested)
- Paternity
- Custody and visitation – Allocation of parenting time and parental responsibility
- Child support
- Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO)
- Adoption
- Guardianship
- Orders of protection
- Prenuptial agreements
- Legal separation
Family law matters can be complex, but with my experience and personalized approach, I will help you navigate the challenges and work toward a fair and efficient outcome.
Divorce and family matters are uniquely personal and often emotional. It can be of great benefit to work with someone who understands this and knows how to circumvent issues that complicate the expediency of the process.
Why Work With An Attorney?
While many of us are accustomed to tackling problems on our own—thanks to the internet’s endless tutorials on everything from fixing a leaky faucet to cooking a new recipe—handling divorce and family law matters yourself is rarely a good idea. These legal issues are complex, and attempting a do-it-yourself approach can lead to costly mistakes, increased stress, and unnecessary delays.
Partnering with an experienced family law attorney provides critical advantages:
- Guidance: You’ll receive clear answers and professional advice throughout your divorce, custody, or other family law matter. I will work closely with you to understand your goals and represent your interests, whether your case is resolved through negotiation or litigation.
- A Smoother Process: Legal paperwork requires precise language and strict adherence to procedures. I will ensure documents are correctly prepared and filed, reducing the risk of errors and delays.
- Understanding Your Rights and Options: I will help you navigate the complexities of property division, debt allocation, custody, and support, ensuring you know your legal options.
- Reduced Stress: By handling the legal details—gathering information, preparing documents, and meeting deadlines—I will ease your burden and allow you to focus on moving forward.
When it comes to protecting your future, having a dedicated attorney on your side makes all the difference.
I Am A Certified Mediator
Mediation plays a crucial role in resolving family law matters, especially when it comes to child custody and parenting issues. In many cases, the court requires mediation as part of the process. This method offers several advantages, including fostering open communication, reducing conflict, and often leading to faster and more cost-effective resolutions. By working together in a guided setting, mediation allows both parties to actively participate in crafting agreements that reflect their needs and priorities.
As a certified mediator, I bring years of experience facilitating productive discussions and helping families reach fair and workable solutions. I have conducted numerous mediations over the years, assisting clients in navigating the complexities of custody arrangements, parenting plans, and other sensitive issues.
Whether you are facing a contested divorce or seeking to resolve custody disputes, mediation can be a valuable tool—and I am here to guide you through the process with skill and care.
Get The Family Law Guidance You Need For A Smoother Process
Facing family law matters can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. I am here to lighten your burden by offering clear, compassionate guidance while ensuring your rights are protected and your goals are pursued every step of the way. Whether you are dealing with divorce, child custody, or other family-related legal concerns, having an experienced attorney by your side can make the process smoother and less stressful.
I am committed to providing personalized attention and will work with you to develop a strategy that fits your unique situation. You deserve to work with an advocate who listens, understands, and fights for what matters most to you.
To get started, call me at 618.655.9906 to schedule a consultation. You can also reach out through the online contact form, and I will respond promptly to discuss how I can assist you.