Compassionate Advocacy Through Life’s Most Challenging Transitions
Divorce represents one of life’s most emotionally and financially challenging experiences, affecting not only spouses but children, extended families, and financial futures. Whether your marriage is ending through mutual agreement or contentious dispute, the decisions made during this process will impact your family for years to come.
At Nielsen Miller Law, our Columbus divorce attorneys understand the profound impact divorce has on families. As someone who experienced her parents’ divorce as a child, Attorney Nielsen brings unique personal insight to every case, combining compassionate support with aggressive legal advocacy to protect your interests while minimizing trauma for all family members.
Understanding Ohio Divorce Law
Ohio offers multiple pathways to end a marriage, each with distinct procedures, requirements, and implications for your family’s future.
Types of Ohio Marriage Dissolution
Dissolution of Marriage
The most amicable approach when spouses agree on all issues:
- Both parties must agree to end the marriage
- Complete agreement on all financial and custody matters is required
- Faster, less expensive process
- Greater privacy and control over outcomes
Contested Divorce
When spouses cannot agree on significant issues:
- One spouse files for divorce (plaintiff)
- Other spouse responds (defendant)
- Court intervention is required for disputed matters
- Discovery process to gather financial information
Uncontested Divorce
Initially filed as contested but resolved through agreement:
- Begins as a traditional divorce filing
- Parties reach a settlement during proceedings
- Avoids trial while maintaining legal protections
Key Issues in Ohio Divorce Cases
Child Custody and Parenting Time
Ohio courts prioritize children’s best interests when determining child custody issues:
- Legal custody (decision-making authority)
- Physical custody (residential arrangements)
- Parenting time schedules
- Holiday and vacation arrangements
Child Support Obligations
Ohio employs an income shares model for child support, considering:
- Both parents’ gross income
- Number of children requiring support
- Parenting time exercised by each parent
- Health insurance and childcare expenses
Spousal Support (Alimony)
Ohio courts may award spousal support based on:
- Length of the marriage
- Income and earning capacity of both spouses
- Age and health of both parties
- Standard of living during marriage
Property Division
Ohio’s equitable distribution law requires fair division of marital assets:
- Family home and real estate
- Retirement accounts and pension benefits
- Business interests and professional practices
- Investment portfolios and bank accounts
- Personal property and household goods
- Marital debt and financial obligations
The Ohio Divorce Process
Initial Consultation and Case Assessment
Your divorce journey begins with comprehensive consultation addressing:
- Your specific circumstances and goals
- Available options for resolving your case
- Timeline expectations and procedural requirements
- Strategy development for your unique situation
Filing and Service of Process
We prepare and file comprehensive divorce petitions, including:
- Grounds for divorce
- Requests for child custody and support
- Spousal support claims
- Property division requests
- Temporary order motions when necessary
Temporary Orders
During divorce proceedings, courts may establish temporary arrangements for:
- Child custody and parenting time
- Child support and spousal support
- Use and occupancy of marital residence
- Payment of bills and expenses
- Restraining orders preventing asset dissipation
Alternative Dispute Resolution
Mediation
Neutral third-party facilitation to resolve disputed issues:
- Cost-effective problem-solving
- Greater control over outcomes
- Privacy and confidentiality
- Preservation of ongoing relationships
Collaborative Divorce
Team approach involving attorneys, financial professionals, and mental health experts:
- Interest-based negotiation
- Comprehensive professional support
- Focus on family’s long-term wellbeing
Settlement Negotiations
Most divorces are resolved through negotiated settlements that address all custody, support, and property issues, with complete implementation procedures.
Trial Preparation and Advocacy
When settlement isn’t possible:
- Comprehensive case preparation
- Expert witness coordination
- Evidence presentation and legal argument
- Aggressive advocacy for your interests
Why Families Choose Nielsen Miller Law
- Personal Experience and Understanding: Attorney Nielsen’s personal experience with divorce as a child of divorced parents provides unique insight into the emotional impact on families and drives her commitment to minimizing trauma while achieving favorable outcomes
- Comprehensive Family Law Focus: Exclusive focus on family law ensures deep knowledge of Ohio divorce law, local court procedures, and effective strategies for protecting your interests
- Collaborative When Possible, Aggressive When Necessary: We pursue amicable resolutions when feasible while providing fierce advocacy when your interests require protection through litigation.
- Transparent Communication: Clear, honest communication about your case, including realistic assessments of outcomes and costs, ensures you make informed decisions throughout the process.
Contact Nielsen Miller Law today at 614-505-5555 to schedule your confidential consultation with one of our experienced Columbus divorce attorneys. Let us help you move forward with confidence toward a brighter future.
Nielsen Miller Law provides comprehensive divorce services to families throughout Columbus, Upper Arlington, and Franklin County, Ohio. Our experienced team combines compassionate support with aggressive advocacy to achieve favorable outcomes during life’s most challenging transitions.
Divorce Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a divorce take in Columbus?
Uncontested divorces may resolve in 4-6 months, while contested cases can take 12-24 months depending on complexity and cooperation levels.
Can I get a divorce if my spouse won’t agree?
Yes. Ohio allows no-fault divorce based on incompatibility, meaning one spouse’s desire to divorce is sufficient grounds.
How much does divorce cost?
Costs vary significantly based on case complexity, levels of cooperation, and resolution methods. We provide transparent fee structures and payment options.
Will I have to go to court?
Many divorces resolve through settlement without trial. However, court appearances may be necessary for temporary orders and final hearings.
Can I represent myself in divorce?
While self-representation is legally permitted, divorce involves complex legal and financial issues, for which professional representation is typically beneficial.
How is property divided in Ohio?
Ohio follows equitable distribution, requiring fair (not necessarily equal) division of marital assets based on various statutory factors.
What about our children?
Ohio courts prioritize children’s best interests in all custody and support decisions, often favoring arrangements that maintain relationships with both parents.
