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Family law - We have years of experience in family law and handle numerous family law issues. As a result our clients receive the expertise of a firm with the knowledge and sensitivity to deal with special domestic relations problems. While the majority of our work includes family law topics, we also handle a number of other legal issues. Collaborative Law - Ms. Wilkins is a trained collaborative law professional and has a close working relationship with other collaborative law professionals in the area. We are excited about the recent use of the collaborative law process for handling disputes, and have seen firsthand how the process assists families in transition. If you desire to structure your family’s future, without publicity, at your own pace, and without interference from the courts, collaborative law may be for you. Divorce - The law views marriage as a legal relationship between two people. Many matters arise when a marriage is to be dissolved and you need help to find your way to an agreeable settlement. As your legal representative, we have the experience and creativity to understand the difficulties that arise and the flexibility to help you discover new ways to cope during this stressful time. Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) / Mediation / Arbitration - Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) is the process of resolving legal conflicts without going to trial. Our firm is in the forefront of this area, advising clients on mediation and arbitration, often used in family law, and other forms of ADR. We have extensive expertise in determining when a form of ADR is in the best interest of clients and meets their needs better than traditional litigation. We have substantial experience and training in ADR and routinely advise our clients on the legal consequences flowing from particular terms and conditions of ADR options. We also serve as a mediator for complex family law cases requiring the expertise of a family law specialist familiar with the legal and social issues comprising family law cases. Child Support- It is undisputed that divorce has emotional implications on the family. Financial implications can be almost as daunting. Because each state has a unique formula for determination of Child Support amounts, you need proactive representation to help you reach a fair settlement and efficiency to reduce legal costs. Custody & Visitation - Divorce is traumatic for parents and children. When searching for the right visitation schedule or deciding where the children should live, each party should have an attorney who is knowledgeable of the state standards and sensitive to the concerns of both adults and children. Adoption - Adoptive parents accept all the challenges, rights, and responsibilities of parenthood. The adoption process can be a maze of legal twists and turns. We know what it takes to navigate the adoption process quickly and efficiently and can help you bring your new family together with minimum delay. Gestational Agreements - This relatively new area of gestational surrogacy is complex, and highly specialized. We are trained and informed of the legal, medical and emotional intricacies involved with a surrogate birth. We can work with you and your medical team to ensure a successful legal transaction. Probate & Estate Administration - Probate is the legal process by which a person’s debts are paid and assets are distributed upon her or his death. Estate Administration includes the probate process as well as non-probate transfers of the deceased’s assets. Individual state laws direct the probate court how to distribute the deceased’s estate. State laws and procedures vary greatly, so, it is important to consult a firm with experience in this area of the law to ensure that the deceased’s assets are distributed correctly, and in the most efficient manner. Trusts - In order to establish a secure and regular income for loved ones left behind, many clients seek advice on Trust establishment and administration. The use of a Trust is also a way to provide a steady income to the Beneficiary over the course of time, rather than distribution in a lump sum. This strategy may allow the Trust to grow through investment. Trusts can also be established that allow charitable organizations to benefit. Wills - A will is a person's declaration of how one wants their property dispersed after death. Because there are complex regulations regarding the validity of any will, it is important to hire an attorney with knowledge and experience. It is also true that these regulations vary from state to state. Be sure to hire an attorney who continually seeks out changes in the rules to be sure your wishes can be honored after your death. Elder Law - As the population grows older and lives longer, new legal challenges arise. Issues such as financial planning and long term care arrangements can prove to be daunting. We are skilled at reviewing every client's goals and assets to determine the best choices for each individual. Jolyn C. Wilkins The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for individual advice regarding your own situation. Copyright © 2004 by Jolyn C. Wilkins. All rights reserved. You may reproduce materials available at this site for your own personal use and for non-commercial distribution. All copies must include this copyright statement. | |