For clients
Family law, handled with care
In a small town the other side is someone you'll see at the post office. Arne works toward agreements that let everyone keep living here, and goes to court when an agreement isn't possible.
Divorce
Dividing the house, land, debts and retirement, with or without children.
Parenting plans
Where children live, school weeks and summers, and how parents decide together.
Child support
Setting support, and changing it when work or custody changes.
Adoption
Stepparent and relative adoptions, from the petition to the final hearing.
Guardianship of a child
When a grandparent or relative needs legal say for a child in their care.
Orders of protection
Help asking the court for protection, or answering a petition filed against you.
Working it out
A plan you can both live with on paper
Most family cases here end in an agreement, often worked out at a table over a few meetings or through a mediator. Arne drafts the plan, explains each clause, and makes sure the court can enforce it. If you're in danger, the first step is safety, and he'll help you take it.
How cases tend to go
Mediation when both sides can talk
Court when they can't
A written plan either way
Asked about family matters
We agree on almost everything. Do we each need a lawyer?
Arne can represent only one of you. The other may sign without a lawyer, but it's wise to have someone look over the papers.
Can support be changed later?
Yes, when income or the parenting schedule changes enough. The change starts from when it's asked for, so don't wait.
What if I need protection now?
If you're in danger, call 911. For an order of protection, the clerk at the courthouse can start the paperwork today, and Arne can help with the hearing.
Talk it through first
A first conversation is private and commits you to nothing. Call or write to set one up.