Family Law & Domestic Relations

The Law Office of Jeffery M. Haupt works to help individuals resolve their family law matters with a focus on using alternative dispute resolution methods such as negotiation and mediation.  The purpose is to help clients reach an agreement that is “their” agreement and one with which they can live and accept the terms.  Whether it is a divorce, child support matter, or custody issue, using mediation or another form of alternative dispute resolution can help people heal emotionally and provide an agreement that will likely lead to fewer disputes in the future.

Why Mediation or Negotiation in family law?

There are numerous reasons as to why I prefer mediation or negotiation settlements for my clients compared to litigation.  For starters, there is certainty in the outcome.  When litigating a case, you can make some educated predictions as to what may or may not happen, but the reality is that once you litigate a family law matter, the Court takes over the decision making process for the parties, and they are stuck with a decision in which they may not agree.  This can lead to further post-decree litigation as one party may be completely unhappy with the outcome and look for anyway to interpret the Order differently.

Mediation and negotiation can also serve to save clients money.  Typically, many mediation sessions last a few hours, while trial preparation can take a significant amount of billable time depending on the issues being litigated.

Finally, there are requirements in St. Joseph County, Indiana that parties make every effort to resolve their disputes before seeking relief from the Court.

What Happens If We Can’t Agree?

If the parties have made every effort to try to work out their issues, but still cannot agree, then matters can be litigated in a trial setting.  Essentially, both sides can present their evidence to the court and the court will make decisions on whatever matters couldn’t be agreed upon.  When it comes to litigation, we have the experience necessary to handle all types of courtroom matters and trial issues.

What Types of Family Law Matters Do You Handle?

My practice works with clients needing assistance with the following family law matters: