FAMILY LAW
Family Law is a term that encompasses a range of legal issues, the most common of which are; marriage dissolution (divorce), development of parenting plans, post-decree disputes, and paternity adjudication. Family law also includes planning for an upcoming marriage (pre-nuptial agreements), consulting about options related to problems within a relationship, or negotiating contracts for cohabitation. The establishment of a guardianship or conservatorship for a minor child reaching adulthood or to deal with needs of a vulnerable adult can also be seen as part of a family practice. The common theme is that family law involves people in relationship with each other, and that some sort of change, or transition, is taking place in that relationship.
Each situation is different, and attorneys working in this area have different styles. Ms. Nevers believes that it is important to have a good working relationship with her clients, assisting them in working through their options to focus on an effective legal solution. She is comfortable working within the traditional adversarial model, and has spent countless hours in the courtroom, honing those skills. But she believes that, in very many cases, a better result can be obtained though structured negotiations, mediation and alternatives such as Social Early Neutral Evaluation or Financial Early Neutral Evaluation. What is most important is that the attorney and client reach an understanding on how to proceed, given the unique circumstances presented in every family law matter. Ms. Nevers will take the time up front to meet with a client to thoroughly understand that client's goals, fears, and preferences.
Most family law matters involve both legal issues and emotions - Ms.Nevers works to focus on the legal issues while recognizing that the emotional issues are at the table as well. She believes that her background and experience as a mediator and early neutral evaluator is an asset in her client advocacy, particularly when the emotional issues stand in the way of settlement. She also understands complex financial issues and has access to up to date case management technology that make the process more cost effective. She has the skills and ability to look out for her client's best interests, and to assist them in making their personal life transition through the legal process.
In addition to providing family law legal services for dissolution, Laurie Nevers Attorney at Law assists clients in the process of drafting wills, powers of attorney and health care directives, and with probate administration. We also provide guidance through the conservatorship and guardianship process, working with parents and interested persons as well as with proposed wards who may need representation.
Until recently, criminal defense work was a major part of Ms. Nevers' practice, and she is no longer working in the felony defense area. However, she is available to represent previous or current clients as well as individuals who are referred to her, who have been charged with traffic, misdemeanors and gross misdemeanors, and juvenile charges, Her focus is on ensuring that the client's legal interests are protected as well as in obtaining the best result in any given situation.