Lake Charles Family Lawyer

Family legal matters can be some of the most emotional and challenging situations a person can face. Whether navigating a divorce, negotiating child custody, or handling the division of assets, having the right legal support can make all the difference. If you’re searching for a Lake Charles family lawyer, Fitz-Gerald, Hebert & Associates, located in Calcasieu Parish, is prepared to offer the legal guidance you need to navigate through the legal landscape.

Whether you’re ending a chapter or starting a new one, we can help you move forward with confidence.

Family Law

Our attorneys have extensive experience with family law. We represent clients in a variety of family law matters:

• divorce
• child custody
• spousal support
• property partitions
• adoptions

We are here to assist you at every step of the process, from legal counsel to emotional support. We know how important family is and we strive to get you the results you want. At Fitz-Gerald, Hebert & Associates you know you can count on open communication and a personalized approach to your case.

Divorce Representation in Lake Charles

Louisiana offers fault-based and no-fault divorce options. In a no-fault divorce, spouses must live separately for a specified period of time before the court can finalize the dissolution of marriage. Fault-based divorces, on the other hand, don’t require a waiting period. Overall, Louisiana reported a relatively lower divorce rate of 0.7 per 1,000 inhabitants.

At Fitz-Gerald, Hebert & Associates, our attorneys guide clients through every step of the divorce process, from filing the initial petition to negotiating settlements for finances, custody, and asset division. We can also prepare to take the case to court if necessary.

Child Custody and Visitation Agreements

Parents want what is best for their children, and so do the courts. In Louisiana, priority is always given to what is in the best interest of the child. Whether you’re seeking to establish custody, modify an existing order, or enforce visitation rights, the team at Fitz-Gerald, Hebert & Associates can help. Factors the judge may take into consideration include:

• Each parent’s ability to provide a stable home
• The emotional ties between the child and each parent
• The history of each parent’s involvement in the child’s life
• Any history of domestic violence or substance abuse

Custody arrangements can involve joint custody, where both parents have decision-making authority and spend time with the child, or sole custody, where one parent assumes primary responsibility.

Modifications to custody orders may become necessary due to relocation, changes in parental fitness, or new life circumstances. At Fitz-Gerald, Hebert & Associates, our team can help clients establish and modify custody agreements to align with the best interests of the child.

Spousal Support (Alimony) in Louisiana

Spousal support can be temporary or permanent, depending on the circumstances. Temporary support is often given while the divorce is pending, while permanent support can be awarded if one spouse demonstrates financial need and the other has the means to provide support.

Factors the court considers when awarding spousal support include:

• The marriage length
• The income and earning potential of each spouse
• Contributions made by one spouse to the other’s education or career
• The standard of living maintained during the marriage

Spousal support can be modified or terminated if there are substantial changes in circumstances, like a remarriage or a significant change in income.

Property Division and Community Property Laws

Louisiana is a community property state, which means most assets and debts acquired during the marriage are equally divided in a divorce unless otherwise agreed upon. Exceptions include inheritances, gifts, and any assets owned before the marriage. Common assets subject to division include:

• Real estate (homes, rental properties, land)
• Bank accounts and investments
• Retirement funds and pensions
• Businesses and professional practices
• Vehicles and personal property

If spouses can’t reach an agreement regarding property division, the court can divide property equitably, which may not always mean a 50/50 split. Factors like financial contributions and economic need can influence the final outcome.

Adoption and Family Growth

Adoption is one of the most rewarding legal processes for a family, but it requires careful navigation of Louisiana’s adoption laws. Common adoption types include:

• Agency adoptions (through state or private agencies)
• Independent adoptions (arranged directly between birth and adoptive parents)
• Stepparent adoptions (a spouse legally adopting their partner’s child)
• Grandparent or relative adoptions (when a family member assumes parental rights)

The adoption process typically involves home studies, background checks, and legal termination of parental rights for the biological parent(s), if applicable. At Fitz-Gerald, Hebert & Associates, our attorneys help families complete the necessary legal steps to bring their children home.

Local Resources for Adoptive Parents

To ensure families have the support they need after adoption, the Louisiana Department of Children & Family Services (DCFS) offers counseling and assistance to families. Additionally, Volunteers of America Southeast Louisiana works to help families transition smoothly post-adoption by helping to address challenges that may arise.

FAQs

Local Representation From Fitz-Gerald, Hebert & Associates

Working with a Lake Charles family lawyer who understands the local courts and community provides significant advantages. The 14th Judicial District Court has specific rules and procedures for family law cases, and attorneys familiar with its judges and filing requirements can make a difference in how efficiently a case is resolved.

With over 80 years of combined experience, the team at Fitz-Gerald, Hebert & Associates is committed to guiding clients through family law matters with compassion and strong legal strategy. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a new chapter.