South Dakota Contested Divorce Lawyer

Experienced Family Law Attorneys Brookings, SD

Going through a divorce is never an easy process, even if both spouses agree that it is the best decision for their family. If you are thinking of filing for divorce, you want to ensure that you have a skilled legal advocate protecting your best interest. An attorney from the Helsper, McCarty and Rasmussen Law Firm can help you with every step of your divorce action.

What is Contested Divorce?

Contested divorce refers to divorce cases in which the divorcing parties are unable to reach mutual decisions regarding the dissolution of their marriage. As a result, contested divorce cases are typically resolved in family court, where a bitter, angry battle over such matters as child custody, visitation rights, alimony, and property division ensues.

These types of divorce cases are extremely difficult on the entire family, especially the children. If you are currently going through a complex divorce, it is important for you to realize that you have options. By working with a proficient divorce attorney, you will be provided with the legal advice you need to mediate through this difficult process. Furthermore, we can help you work through the legal obstacles and challenges you are facing without compromising your rights or what you wish to achieve in divorce court.

Property Division in South Dakota

During a divorce, one of the most important issues to address is how your marital property will be divided. It is not uncommon for divorcing spouses to have conflicting opinions over how their property should be divided. Under South Dakota law, all assets, money and property acquired during marriage are up for equitable distribution, regardless of which party’s name is on the title or the account. Some common examples of marital property are:

  • Real Estate
  • Pensions
  • Retirement Accounts
  • Savings Accounts
  • Healthcare Benefits
  • Stock Options
  • Investments (i.e. mutual funds)
  • Time Shares
  • Automobiles
  • Antiques or collectibles
  • Business ventures
  • Education degrees
  • Professional licenses

It is important for both parties to realize that equitable distribution is not the same as equal distribution. Understanding your rights under equitable distribution can be confusing. Working with a knowledgeable and well-practiced South Dakota divorce lawyer will ensure that your rights and property are protected.

Contact a South Dakota lawyer at Helsper, McCarty and Rasmussen Law Firm.