Prattville Family Law Attorneys

What Is Family Law?

Family law, also known as domestic law, governs legal matters that affect families, such as divorce, alimony, adoption, paternity, and domestic violence. These cases often involve complex emotional and financial considerations, making it critical to seek legal counsel from a knowledgeable family law firm. 

At McDowell Faulk & Shirley, we guide clients through these challenging situations with compassionate representation and personalized guidance. Our attorneys can work tirelessly to protect your rights and advocate for a resolution that prioritizes your family’s well-being and financial future.

Our Practice Areas

At McDowell Faulk & Shirley, we represent couples and families in a wide range of family law matters. Our lawyers are familiar with local court clerks and procedures to guide your steps with care in family court. Our common practice areas include contested and uncontested divorces, child custody and support, property division, alimony and spousal support, modifications and enforcement, and family law litigation. 

Can You Represent Me if My Case Goes to Trial?

Absolutely. Our highly skilled litigators never shy away from a trial if necessary to achieve the just outcome you deserve. We have proven results in a wide range of litigated matters and local familiarity with courts and counsel, giving you peace of mind that your case is in trusted hands. 

How Can I Protect My Assets During a Divorce? 

While Alabama aims to divide marital property equitably or fairly in a divorce, what is fair is not always equal. Protecting your assets during a divorce requires careful planning, documentation, and legal guidance. 

Our attorneys are well versed in equitable distribution laws to safeguard your financial interests. We can help you create a detailed inventory of assets and debts, document ownership and contributions, uncover hidden assets, and coordinate with financial experts to pursue a division that protects your fair share. 

What Factors Determine Equitable Distribution? 

Family courts can consider a variety of factors to achieve an equitable division of marital assets in a divorce. Some key considerations include (but are not limited to): 

• The length of the marriage.
• The age and health of each spouse. 
• Custodial arrangements for children.
• Each spouse’s contributions, including domestic duties.
• Each spouse’s income, earning potential, and financial needs.

Whether you own a family business or have significant assets, we can work diligently to protect your hard-earned assets by valuing assets, preparing documents, and representing you in court if any disputes arise. 

How Is Alimony or Spousal Support Calculated in Alabama?

There is no strict formula for calculating alimony or spousal support. Courts may award support based on the financial needs of the receiving spouse and the supporting spouse’s ability to pay. 

The judge has discretion to award different types of alimony based on various factors, including the length of the marriage, the standard of living during the marriage, the age and health of each spouse, and each spouse’s financial and non-financial contributions. 

In Alabama, some of the most common forms of alimony include:

• Rehabilitative alimony provides support for a limited period to allow a spouse to gain education, training, or work experience to become self-sufficient.
• Periodic alimony includes regular payments for a fixed amount of time to support a spouse after a divorce.
• Alimony in gross is typically a lump-sum payment intended to compensate a spouse for the loss of property rights in the other’s estate. 
• Permanent alimony is less common and paid indefinitely until the recipient remarries or passes away.