Family Law Lawyer in Columbia, SC
Masella Law Firm Has Over a Quarter Century of Experience on Your Side
If you are planning to file for divorce, you need a Columbia family lawyer who sincerely cares about your case and who will safeguard your personal interests throughout the divorce process.
Make no mistake—the final outcome of this case could have a major impact on your future.
At Masella Law Firm, we understand that every divorce is unique, requiring a bespoke approach tailored to individual circumstances. We prioritize effective communication to ensure that you are always informed and involved in the decision-making process. Our team is skilled in negotiating settlements that aim to minimize conflict and promote amicable resolutions, where possible. We take pride in our ability to handle complex issues such as high-net-worth divorces and cases involving significant assets, offering insightful guidance on asset protection and division to safeguard your interests.
Our commitment extends beyond traditional legal advice. We provide emotional and strategic support, aiding clients in navigating the emotional turbulence often associated with divorce. Through workshops and resources, we empower our clients to approach this life transition not only with clarity but also with confidence in their futures.
Give yourself the best possible chances of success by coming to Masella Law Firm, P.A., a group with nearly 30 years of collective experience in legal practice. Contact us today!
Do You Have to File for Separation Before Divorce in SC?
In South Carolina, you must be legally separated physically for up to one year before you are able to obtain a no-fault divorce. Additionally, if the separation period is broken at any point, the judge may reject grounds for divorce. The one-year requirement may be waived for consistent substance abuse, adultery, or abuse.
Understanding the specific requirements for separation can alleviate unnecessary delays in the divorce process. Our legal team at Masella Law Firm takes time to explain these nuances, ensuring you are well-prepared to meet all legal stipulations. We assess cases of hardship or exceptions, such as instances with abuse or infidelity, proactively advising our clients on applicable legal routes to possibly expedite the process. Our goal is to facilitate the proceedings with as little hurdle as possible, providing you with a clear pathway to move forward.
What is the Difference Between Contested & Uncontested Divorce?
Unless you and your spouse are able to come to agreements about dividing property, paying spousal support and how to care for your children before you go to court, the judge will intervene to rule on these questions for you. You will have to live with the result whether you like it or not, and a court order can be enforced when either party is not adhering to it. In such a situation—referred to as a contested divorce—you will need an attorney to fight aggressively to achieve a favorable final decree of divorce.
In an uncontested divorce, on the other hand, you and your spouse will maintain control over the outcome, working together to make arrangements that are mutually beneficial while also preserving a greater degree of privacy. We can help you pursue an uncontested divorce by negotiating on your behalf and arguing for terms that benefit you. A Columbia divorce attorney from our firm can even assist you with mediation by acting as a neutral third party between you and your spouse. Depending on the situation of the divorce, either of these options may be beneficial in your case.
Choosing between contested and uncontested divorce can have lasting implications on your life post-divorce. In a contested divorce, our attorneys deploy strategic advocacy and evidence-based arguments to champion your position. For those aiming for an uncontested divorce, we guide you through collaborative law or alternative dispute resolutions to achieve equitable settlements without courtroom stress. Our team’s expertise ensures that whether you seek an amicable split or need robust legal backing for disputes, you receive comprehensive support tailored to your personal and financial priorities.
With over two decades of experience working with family law, personal injury and criminal defense cases throughout South Carolina, we at Masella Law Firm, P.A. are prepared to guide you through the legal process. Click below to be taken to our secure payment page.
Military Divorce Attorney in Columbia, SC
Our team also has experience in more specific divorce matters that many family law attorneys are not always as adept in. We handle military divorces recognizing the unique circumstances that are faced by a member of the military and their spouse.
There are some issues that need to be given special attention, and our team is very familiar with matters that are exclusive in military divorce cases. This can include if a member is currently being stationed overseas, but either they or their spouse still want the divorce to go through. We also deal with high net worth divorce cases that will need a particular skill set, having a more substantial amount of assets on the line than the average divorce.
The complexity of military divorces demands a thorough understanding of military laws, benefits, and the potential impacts on divorcing parties. Our attorneys are well-versed in addressing challenges related to military pensions, healthcare, and the Service Members Civil Relief Act. We provide insights into jurisdictional concerns and strategize effectively around deployments and active-duty statuses. Our commitment to our clients ensures that every aspect of their military-related divorce receives the considered attention it merits to achieve equitable resolutions.
