When you come to the Law Office of Ellen M. Ross for legal counsel, you can expect to be kept informed every step of the way. You will be copied on all correspondence and sent copies of all documents in your file.  

We speak to you in language you can understand. We walk you through the process and thoroughly explain what to expect. You will receive guidance that is designed to make your experience less stressful such as how to better interact with your partner or former partner, what you can reasonably expect as you proceed with your matter, and what a fair settlement is.

Yes. A significant number of cases that the firm handles are cases where the parties did not employ attorneys at the time of the initial determination of parental responsibilities and now they have a disagreement. Often the issue in those matters is, “What was the intent of the parties?” You cannot enforce an agreement if the agreement is not clear. It takes a significant amount of time and attorney fees to prove the intent of the parties and then enforce it. 

In those instances when you do not hire an attorney to represent you, it is a good idea to at least consult with one to learn what you are entitled to before you start negotiating, and it is imperative to consult with an attorney to review or draft your agreement. Attorneys are trained to identify issues you may not have considered.

For the partner who is adamant that you do not seek legal assistance, ask yourself, “What is this person trying to hide? Why doesn’t he/she want me to find out what I’m entitled to?”  Your interactions may begin amicably; however, our experience has been that it does not always end that way.

No, one attorney cannot represent both parties to an Allocation of Parental Responsibilities matter. It is a conflict of interest. Both parties should have their own attorney represent them or, at the very least, review their agreement. If you agree on all of the issues and only need an attorney to draft your agreement, you can retain one attorney to draft the necessary documents. Be aware that the attorney cannot give you or your former partner advice.

Typically, you will have to appear in Court for what is called an Initial Status Conference. The Court wants to know the status of your matter and what is necessary for your matter to progress. Does the custodial parent need temporary child support? What parenting time is in the best interest of the children? Regarding the final outcome, most matters do not go to Court. We work diligently to settle your case without going to trial.