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. 

Forbes Law LLC

​166 Main Street

Painesville, OH 44077

V: (440) 739-6211

eFax: (850) 988-7066

eMail:info@geflaw.net

Family Law

Glenn E Forbes

Certified as a Distinguished 2023 Member of Lawyers of Distinction

Divorce

Dissolution

Custody

Child Support

Juvenile Matters

Domestic Violence

FAMILY LAW

Family law matters affect all persons involved and can be a very difficult and emotional time.  Our office handles each case with compassion and professionalism. 

When you need to speak with a domestic relations attorney as soon as possible, we make every effort to meet your needs, whether that be answering questions, responding to an emergency or explaining the Court process. 

We strive to provide compassionate and professional representation by

• quickly responding to phone calls and emails
• maintaining the privacy of you and your family
  
• keeping you up to date on all Court proceedings
  
• providing reasonable and fair prices for our service
  

The services we provide include representation in Domestic Relations Court as well as in Juvenile Court and Probate Court. 

We can assist you with

• Divorce
• Dissolution
  
• Annulment
  
• Child Support
  
• Custody
  
• Adoption
  
• Other post decree matters
  

Our family law attorneys have proudly represented individuals and families across several counties in Northeast Ohio, including, Lake, Cuyahoga, Lorain, Medina and Portage.  Familiarity with each Court process ensures you will receive informed and knowledgeable representation for your particular needs.  We feel confident in our ability to help you resolve your legal matter in the most favorable way possible. 

We are here to give you the support and advice you need to make legally sound decisions for you and your family.   

Do not hesitate to call us for a consultation so we can discuss how our firm can help you during this difficult time. 



 
FAQ’s

What is the difference between a divorce and dissolution?

            Divorce is a Court action by one or both parties requesting the Court terminate the marriage.  In a divorce proceeding at least one issue is contested and assistance is needed to resolve these issues.  Some examples of issues that may need resolved include child custody, child support, property division, retirement account division, or division of business assets acquired during the marriage. 
            Dissolution is a Court petition, that also requests the Court terminate the marriage.  However, a dissolution does present any issues for resolution to the Court.  Prior to filing a dissolution, the parties will have entered into an agreement resolving all child custody, child support and division of property issues.  However, a dissolution can be converted into a divorce if at any time prior to the Court entering its final order of dissolution the parties find issues need resolution by the Court. 

How does the Court determine child custody?

            The Court determines custody based upon the best interest of the child(ren).  Many factors are considered when making this determination.  Some factors the Court will examine include the child’s adjustment to home and/or school; mental and physical health of all persons involved; and the wishes of each parent.  You can look at Ohio Revised Code Sec. 3109.04 for more information. 
            In Ohio, joint custody or shared parenting arrangements for children are favored.  Therefore, without extreme circumstances, such as drug and/or alcohol abuse or mental and/or physical limitations to care for the child(rem) both parents’ involvement is typically determined to be in the best interest of the child(ren). 

How does the Court determine child support?

            Child support is first determined by statute.  You can see the child support guidelines in Ohio Revised Code Sec. 3109.05.   After an initial determination is made the Court can adjust based upon the best interest of the child.  Some reasons for adjustment to the statutory required child support may include earning ability of each parent, special education or special medical needs of the child, and the overall financial status of each parent. 

How can I enforce child support?

            Enforcing child support requires action through the Court.  Various methods can be used to collect back child support payments.  The Court may issue an order for wage garnishment, interception of tax returns or place liens upon property.  If collection efforts are unsuccessful by the above methods the Court can suspend the obligor’s driver’s license, deny a passport and even impose jail time. 

How does the Court determine visitation?

            Visitation is determined by finding what is in the best interest of the child(ren).  Ohio Revised Code Sec. 3109.051 sets forth factors for the Court to consider.  These include, age of the child, child’s geographical location to each parent, child and parent’s available time and the health and safety of the child(ren). 
            Visitation is typically granted by Local Rule of the Court.  For example, in Lake County, Ohio, Local Rule 26 states the preferred schedule for parenting time. This scheduled varies by Court, so knowing your local parenting time schedule can help you know what the expect. 
            As always, these schedules are suggestions for minimum parenting time.  The scheduled can be modified to allow more or less time with a parent.  Each case and circumstance is examined individually and visitation orders are customized for each family. 

How long does the is take for a divorce to be finalized?

            Each case is unique and the time it takes to finalize a divorce will vary.  The number of contested issues and how quickly issues are resolved between parties will determines the time frame.  If an agreement is reached between the parties’ time is shortened. 
            However, the time for finalization is ultimately based upon the Court’s availability and schedule.

How can an attorney help?

            An attorney can offer invaluable advice and direction in a divorce, custody or child support case.  These issues affect not only your family, but all other areas of your life.  An attorney by your side will guide you through each step and provide neutral and rationale insight to a situation that is possibly very emotional and difficult to navigate. 
            An attorney can help you achieve your goals and help to reach a favorable outcome.