Family Law

Our team understands that every family is unique and every case is different. Nevertheless, we believe one factor should always remain the same: In every custody battle, the needs of the child/children come first. The attorneys of Taylor & Taylor Law Firm work with all parties to find solutions that are, first and foremost, in the interest(s) of the child/children involved.

We work to help ensure the noncustodial parent pays the appropriate amount of child support in each case. After child support has been established, the person making payments may lose their job, become disabled, or get a pay increase. Anytime there is a material change in income, either the payor or payee can petition the court to increase or decrease child support payments accordingly.

We believe that all children deserve to grow up in a safe and loving home. Nevertheless, we understand that death, mental or physical incapacity, drugs, or other circumstances, can leave a parent or parents unable to care for their children and create an unstable home life.

In such cases, a guardianship can help protect children by allowing another adult to stand in for the parents and provide the children with a safe and loving place to call “home.”

When an adult seeks to become a guardian, they must obtain a legal guardianship from court. This legal document allows them to make important decisions on behalf of the children in their care; for example, where they attend school and where they receive healthcare.

Similarly, sometimes adults need guardians due to age, mental incompetence, disease (Alzheimer’s, dementia, cancer, etc.), or physical limitation. Elderly or impaired individuals may need help managing their affairs, including making important long-term care decisions and protecting their assets.

Unlike a divorce, an annulment makes your marriage legally void, which means the marriage will cease to exist without the stress of a divorce.

In Arkansas, you are entitled to an annulment if you or your partner entered into the marriage without the appropriate consent. Here are some examples of when you can seek an annulment:

• Your partner lied about their large amounts of debt
• Your partner coerced you into marriage
• Your partner married you using fraud or force

Prenuptial agreements establish how assets will be shared during and after the marriage (in the event divorce occurs). Prenuptial agreements allow individuals to contractually establish decisions like:

• Whether bank accounts will be joint or separate
• Which property belong to the marriage

Prenuptial agreements can provide helpful clarification and contribute to a stronger marriage (especially in the beginning, when sharing assets can be a brand-new concept). By defining expectations early on, couples can avoid conflict in the future. 

Scenarios in which prenups are helpful:

• You or your partner have children from a previous relationship
• You own a business
• You have outstanding debt

While adopting a child is an exciting process, legally it can be complicated. Whether you are a stepparent looking to adopt your stepchild, a couple looking to expand your family, or a single person who is ready to embrace parenthood, let the Taylor & Taylor team walk you through the process. Adoptions are one of our favorite legal matters because of the joy they bring to so many lives!

When a child is born without established paternity, the mother gains sole custody of the child. The father must petition the court to establish paternity before he can gain any visitation or custody rights. Likewise, a mother must petition the court to establish paternity if she is seeking a child support order.

If you are not satisfied with the court’s decision in your family law case, we can help you file a family law appeal. Experienced in appellate court, our attorneys can review your case and complete legal research to help you make the best possible argument.

If the law hasn’t served you well, we can pinpoint exactly what went wrong and present the error in court. We will ensure:

• Required forms are complete
• Deadlines are met
• Your best interests are represented

Unfortunately, the relief that follows a final divorce decree or custody order can be short-lived if an ex refuses to follow court orders. When this occurs, you need Taylor & Taylor Law Firm to help you file a Motion for Contempt. A successful motion can result in fees and jail time – and your ex may even be responsible for paying your attorney’s fees!