Recent Blog Posts
What Is a Summary Dissolution and How Do I Qualify?
Not every divorce proceeding needs to be a knock-down, drag-out fight. Although divorce can bring up a lot of challenging emotions, many couples come to the mutual conclusion that their marriage is not in their best interests and seek a way to dissolve the marriage as efficiently and painlessly as possible. There are streamlined… Read More »
How to Challenge a Prenuptial Agreement
It’s a very personal decision whether or not to enter into a prenuptial agreement in advance of a marriage. We advise most couples with any pre-existing assets to at least consider a prenup. It’s not about planning for an inevitable divorce. Prenups are about protecting everyone and planning a future together while recognizing that… Read More »
How to Choose a Divorce Lawyer
Proceeding with a divorce can be a difficult time in anyone’s life. That’s why it’s important to have the right attorney on your side. At Hawkins Law, we believe in understanding the needs and circumstances of every client. No two divorce cases are alike, and having an attorney who understands how to adapt to… Read More »
What Are Deductible Fees in an Alabama Divorce?
The most recent changes to the tax law amended the Internal Revenue Code in a way that largely does not benefit individuals going through a divorce. Specifically, the IRS does not allow for any deductions for the cost of legal fees related to divorce proceedings. In Alabama, the state code details that “Attorneys’ fees… Read More »
Divorce Settlements Under Duress
Alabama courts encourage divorcing parties, like parties to any other civil action, to settle. Forcing the court to resolve matters is always meant to be a last resort. Settlements make the case conclude more quickly and give the parties more agency in deciding what happens to their assets, their children, and their financial support…. Read More »
Freezing Marital Assets in AL: Requesting a Financial Restraining Order
In an ideal world, when you find yourself in a divorce, you and your spouse would accurately disclose all marital and separate assets and negotiate a fair disposition. Unfortunately, the world is rarely ideal. In reality, parties to a divorce often do whatever they can to protect their finances in a divorce or even… Read More »
Does Marital Misconduct Affect Alimony and Divorce in Alabama
A divorce can be a painful and heartbreaking experience, especially if the divorce is the result of a cheating spouse, drug and alcohol use, or even domestic violence. Alabama courts acknowledge this and address the impacts marital misconduct can have on the terms of a divorce. Below, we explore the different elements that dictate… Read More »
PFA in AL: Defending Against a Restraining Order
Allegations of domestic violence can derail your life. Whether in the midst of a divorce or otherwise involved in a domestic dispute, an allegation of domestic abuse can lead to the court putting restrictions on your behavior, who you can interact with, and even where you live. If you are hit with a restraining… Read More »
Proof of Cohabitation to Stop Alimony
Alimony is generally not meant to be permanent. In Alabama, it’s meant to support the lower-earning party until they are able to support themselves, whether that takes a short period of time or will take more time as they obtain the education, training, and skills necessary to enter the workforce. Other factors can trigger… Read More »
What Are the Emancipation Laws for AL?
Parents are responsible for their children, and children are bound to the orders of their parents. Children are not free to make their own decisions until they reach the age of majority unless they go through a special legal proceeding known as emancipation. Emancipation laws vary by state, and Alabama’s emancipation laws are particularly… Read More »
