Family Law Practice Areas

Patten Law Office provides experienced, compassionate representation across a broad range of family law matters. We work closely with clients to understand their circumstances, explain their options, and pursue practical solutions that protect their rights, their families, and their future.


Divorce (Contested & Uncontested)

Patten Law Office provides comprehensive representation for clients navigating all aspects of divorce, including property division, spousal support, child-related matters, and complex financial issues. Each case is handled with discretion and a focus on protecting legal rights while working toward equitable resolutions through skilled negotiations, structured mediation, or litigation when necessary. Our firm is dedicated to reducing conflict while securing fair outcomes that position clients for a stable future.

Establishing Parentage (unmarried parents)

Establishing parentage is an important step in protecting the rights and responsibilities of unmarried parents. Patten Law Office assists clients with matters involving legal parentage, custody, parenting time, and child support so that clear arrangements can be put in place for both parents and their children.

Custody & Parenting Time

Child custody and parenting time arrangements should support a child’s well-being while providing both parents with clear expectations and meaningful involvement. Patten Law Office helps parents develop practical parenting schedules and addresses disputes when existing arrangements no longer work for the family.

Child Support

Patten Law Office handles child support obligations with meticulous attention to state guidelines and the financial circumstances of both parents. Services include establishing new support orders, enforcing existing obligations, and pursuing modifications when life circumstances change. Representation focuses on protecting the best interests of the child while balancing the financial realities of each parent.

Alimony & Spousal Support

Our firm pursues fair and appropriate alimony/spousal support arrangements with attention to financial needs, lifestyle expectations, and future considerations. Whether seeking financial support or defending against it, representation is focused on protecting long-term stability and ensuring equitable outcomes.

Property Division

The division of marital property can be one of the most significant issues in a divorce. Patten Law Office helps clients identify and evaluate assets and debts, understand their options, and work toward a fair resolution that considers both immediate needs and long-term financial concerns.

Contempt Actions

When a party fails to follow an existing court order, a contempt action may be necessary to seek enforcement. Patten Law Office represents clients in pursuing and defending against matters involving unpaid support, parenting-time violations, and other failures to comply with court-ordered obligations.

Modifications

Family circumstances can change after a court order has been entered. Patten Law Office assists clients seeking or responding to modifications involving child support, custody, parenting time, alimony, and other family law orders when a significant change in circumstances may justify a new arrangement.

Prenuptial Agreements

Our law office prepares custom agreements that establish financial clarity and asset protection before marriage, reducing uncertainty and potential future disputes. Patten Law Office carefully tailors these agreements to address individual priorities, helping couples enter marriage with confidence and transparency.

Guardianships

Guardianship proceedings may become necessary when a child is not being appropriately cared for or when an adult is unable to manage their personal or legal needs appropriately. Patten Law Office helps families understand the guardianship process, prepare required court filings, and address related family and caregiving concerns.

Wills, Durable Power of Attorney, Health Care Proxy

Planning for the future can provide greater peace of mind for you and your family. Patten Law Office assists clients with wills, durable powers of attorney, and healthcare proxies to help ensure their wishes are clearly documented and trusted individuals are authorized to act on their behalf when necessary.

Name Changes

A legal name change may be requested for a variety of personal or family reasons. Patten Law Office helps clients understand the process, prepare the necessary filings, and address issues that may arise when seeking a legal name change for an adult or child.

Restraining Orders

Restraining order matters can involve urgent and deeply personal circumstances. Patten Law Office represents clients seeking protection as well as individuals responding to restraining order requests, providing careful guidance through the court process and helping clients understand their rights and responsibilities.

Limited Assistance Representation Offered

Limited Assistance Representation from Patten Law Office provides targeted legal help for individuals who do not require full legal representation but still need professional guidance. Clients can handle specific aspects of a case independently while receiving support for critical elements such as document preparation, court appearance, or legal advice. This cost-effective option empowers clients while maintaining access to experienced legal counsel.

Mediation & Conciliation

I can represent individuals or serve as a mediator or conciliator to help people seeking to resolve their case without going to court. These forms of alternative dispute resolution can provide a more cooperative, efficient, and cost-effective way to reach an agreement.