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Family Law
Grand Rapids, Michigan, Family Law AttorneysDivorce and child custody matters often generate intense emotions. All too often, people who are contemplating filing for divorce allow their emotions, rather than common sense, to determine the course of events. At Kooistra & Dantuma, we understand the intense pressure and turmoil our family law clients are experiencing. In our role as family law and divorce lawyers, we help our clients understand the legal reality of their situation so that they can make the right decisions for themselves and their children.
Kooistra & Dantuma represents clients in matters involving:
Some divorce and family law matters can be solved relatively amicably, while others require a lawyer who will stand firm to protect the rights and interests of the client. At Kooistra & Dantuma, we use our experience and knowledge of the law to help our clients achieve the best solutions for themselves and their children. Both principal attorneys at our firm have served as court-appointed arbitrators in a variety of family law matters. Attorney Ronald J. Kooistra has extensive experience in applying mediation and arbitration methods to resolve difficult problems in divorce and family law. Often, he uses these techniques to achieve workable and fair family law solutions at a reasonable cost. Other situations require assertive, even aggressive legal action to protect the rights and interests of clients. In these cases, our experience in family court litigation enables us to preserve the rights of our clients so that they may begin a new stage in their lives. Call us at (616) 531-7100 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with a Grand Rapids Michigan divorce and child custody lawyer at our firm. Child CustodyFew issues in law generate more emotion and acrimony than divorce and child custody matters. At Kooistra & Dantuma, we believe in keeping heads cool and tempers even. In child custody matters, we have found the best way to accomplish this is to firmly protect our clients' rights and those of their children in order to work toward a solution that makes sense for the family, as well as the client. Kooistra & Dantuma represent clients in matters involving:
In Michigan, the court generally decides child custody and visitation questions in favor of "the best interests of the child." In most situations, this means joint legal custody. Certain factors—such as a parent's lifestyle, temperament, history of substance abuse, or a pattern of emotional or physical abuse—can influence the court in its custody decision. From the moment we first talk with you during the divorce process, we consider how best to protect your rights and the best interests of your children. Kooistra & Dantuma will closely examine all factors concerning your situation and work to protect your child and preserve your rights. Over time, a parent's life situation can change markedly. One parent may relocate out of state, or a parent's job schedule may change, requiring a change in the custody arrangement or parenting plan. In situations such as these, we can go to court on your behalf to secure modifications of the custody and parenting time stipulations. Kooistra & Dantuma will gladly advise you and represent your interests long after the final divorce decree is filed. For a consultation with a lawyer at Kooistra & Dantuma about your child custody or other family law issues, call (616) 531-7100, or contact us online. Kooistra & Dantuma | |         |
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