Tips from Chandler family law attorney

Let’s be honest—breakups are tough for anyone. Think back to one you experienced when you were younger; it probably felt like you’d never get over it. Now amplify that feeling by a marriage built on commitment and the expectation of a lifetime together. The reality is that divorce can be one of the most challenging experiences in a person’s life, often bringing out a wide range of emotions, including anger, sadness, resentment, confusion, and denial.

At Shaffer Family Law, we have firsthand experience with how these feelings can turn even the most amicable cases into contentious ones. While conflict is a natural part of divorce, when every decision sparks tension and every interaction feels like an uphill battle, it can make the process far more complex. High-conflict divorces—though they don’t have a strict legal definition—are typically characterized by heated disputes, an inability to compromise, a lack of cooperation, and frequent arguments. They are often prolonged, expensive, and emotionally draining for everyone involved, including children.

If you’re facing a high-conflict divorce in Maricopa County or elsewhere in Arizona, partnering with the attorneys at Shaffer Family Law should be a top priority. We provide the guidance, support, and legal expertise you need to navigate these complex challenges and protect your interests every step of the way.

Challenges in High-Conflict Divorce Cases in Arizona

Ending a marriage is never easy, but understanding the dynamics of a high-conflict divorce can help you set realistic expectations, make informed decisions, and reduce stress for both you and your family.

• Communications Breakdowns: Conversations often escalate into arguments, making it difficult to reach agreements on key issues such as child custody, visitation, and financial arrangements.
• Escalating Emotions: Strong feelings of anger, resentment, frustration, and anxiety can flare repeatedly, turning even minor disagreements into major disputes.
• Impact on Children: Children may experience anxiety, confusion, or divided loyalties as they witness ongoing tension between parents. This can affect their emotional well-being, academic performance, and social development.
• Prolonged Legal Process: High-conflict divorces often involve repeated court appearances, mediation sessions, and legal interventions, which can extend timelines and delay resolution.
• Difficulty Reaching Agreements: The inability or unwillingness to compromise can make decisions about property division, parenting plans, and spousal support especially challenging.
• Emotional and Mental Health Issues: Continuous disputes can contribute to depression, anxiety, and other mental health struggles for both spouses.
• Uncertainty About the Future: Planning for the future—whether it’s housing, finances, or your own well-being—can be difficult when legal proceedings are ongoing, and outcomes remain unknown.

Navigate High-Conflict Divorce in Arizona with Shaffer Family Law on Your Side

Divorce doesn’t have to turn into a battle, but when conflict emerges, being prepared is essential. Seeking legal guidance is your strongest ally to ensure your rights are safeguarded, your decisions are guided by reason rather than emotion, and you receive the advocacy you need throughout the process.

When you work with Shaffer Family Law in Arizona, you gain a team of dedicated attorneys experienced in high-conflict divorces and all areas of family law, including property division, custody arrangements, spousal support, and more. While litigation may sometimes be unavoidable, we focus on helping you and your family achieve the most favorable resolution—both in and out of the courtroom.

Contact us at (480) 470-3030 or schedule your appointment online today to take the first step toward a more secure and positive future.

You joined the military, and while stationed on your base, you met the love of your life. After getting married and dreaming of a future together, orders suddenly came for a relocation—possibly to another state or even overseas. Suddenly, difficult decisions loomed: would your spouse move with you, leaving behind a life and career they had built, or would you spend months—or even years—apart?

It might sound like the plot of a movie, but for military couples, this is reality. Constant relocations, unpredictable schedules, and long deployments can place enormous strain on even the strongest relationships. Over time, the emotional distance, stress, and demands of military life can become overwhelming, sometimes pushing couples toward divorce despite their best efforts.

At Shaffer Family Law, we recognize that all relationships present challenges, but military marriages face unique pressures that civilian couples often do not encounter. While a military divorce follows the same basic legal steps as any divorce, it also presents its own set of complexities. If you’re a service member or the spouse of one, understanding what to expect can make a significant difference as you navigate this process and plan for your future.

Challenges of Military Divorce in Arizona

• Jurisdiction: To file for divorce in Arizona, at least one spouse must be a permanent resident or have lived (domiciled) in the state for at least 90 days. Because military service members are often stationed elsewhere, it’s important to ensure you file in the correct jurisdiction to avoid dismissals, delays, and additional costs.
• Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA): The SCRA protects deployed service members by requiring that divorce proceedings be postponed until 60 days after their return—or that the service member waives this right.
• Property Division : Arizona is a community property state, meaning assets and debts acquired during the marriage are typically split equally. For military couples, this may include retirement benefits, real estate, and investments. However, frequent relocations and housing allowances can complicate what constitutes marital property.
• Military Pensions & Retirement Pay: Under Arizona and federal law, only the portion of a military pension or retirement pay earned during the marriage is considered marital property. Guidelines, such as the 10/10 or 20/20/20 rules, determine how these benefits are divided between spouses.
• Spousal Maintenance & Custody Considerations: Calculating alimony and child support can be complex for military families, as income sources such as housing allowances or special pay may impact the amounts. Deployments and frequent relocations can also influence custody arrangements. Courts weigh the child’s best interests while taking into account the unique demands of military life.
• Benefits & Healthcare: A former spouse’s access to TRICARE, base privileges, and other military benefits depends on the length of the marriage and overlap with the service member’s military career.

Experienced Military Divorce Attorneys in Chandler, Arizona

Divorce is never easy, but when it involves a military member, the stakes are even higher. Every aspect of a military divorce—from where you can file to dividing benefits, pensions, and calculating child support—requires careful attention and expertise. At Shaffer Family Law, our attorneys guide you through these complexities with a deep understanding of both family law and federal regulations, helping you protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome at every step.

If you are a service member, the soon-to-be-ex spouse of one, or both, taking control of your options is the first step toward achieving a fair resolution and a secure future. Contact us today at Shaffer Family Law or schedule your consultation online, and let’s work together to map out the best path forward.

When a marriage ends, there are often two sides to the story. One spouse may feel the other is accountable for the breakdown of the relationship—and in many cases, those feelings are valid. Trust can be shattered through infidelity, domestic violence, addiction, financial abuse, or other harmful behaviors, leaving lasting emotional scars.

In fault-based states, you must prove these specific grounds to obtain a divorce. But what about Arizona? Do the courts consider who is to blame for the marriage’s breakdown? Laws vary from state to state, and Arizona is a no-fault divorce state. This means you do not need to show wrongdoing by either spouse to file for a divorce. You simply need to state that the relationship has “irretrievably broken”.

In the United States, divorces generally fall into these two categories, and understanding their distinction is essential for knowing your rights, protecting your interests, and navigating the process effectively.

Key Differences Between Fault and No-Fault Divorce

• Proof of Misconduct: Unlike a no-fault divorce, a fault-based divorce requires one partner to prove that the other is responsible for the breakdown of the marriage.
• Grounds for Divorce: No-fault divorces rely on statements such as “irretrievably broken,” while fault-based cases are grounded in specific reasons, including infidelity, abuse, addiction, abandonment, or financial improprieties.
• Process: Since fault-based divorces require proof of wrongdoing, they are typically more complex, often involving evidence, witness testimony, and lengthier legal proceedings. In contrast, no-fault divorces only require a judge to determine that the marriage is irretrievably broken with no chance of reconciliation, making the process quicker, simpler, and less contentious.
• Emotional Strain: Divorce is emotionally challenging, no matter the legal path, but fault-based divorces often add extra stress. Revisiting and exposing your spouse’s harmful actions can stir up painful memories and intensify emotions you may be trying to move past. These cases may also take longer, involve more court appearances, and can become contentious if one party resists agreements.
• Financial Impact: In Arizona, marital assets and debt are typically split equally. While no-fault divorces do not deal in blame, proof of misconduct may still influence decisions on child custody, support, or property division. Fault-based divorces can directly affect settlements, sometimes benefiting the innocent partner. 

Experienced No-Fault Divorce Lawyers in Chandler, Arizona

Divorce is already difficult enough without the added pressure of having to prove allegations in court. The truth is that some marriages reach a point where parting ways becomes the healthiest path forward for everyone involved. Fortunately, for those in Chandler and throughout Arizona, the state’s no-fault approach helps streamline the process. However, it’s important to note that couples in covenant marriages must still prove specific grounds—such as adultery, abandonment, or domestic violence—before a divorce can be granted.

No matter the reason for ending your marriage, whether or not your spouse is to blame, it’s essential to have trusted legal guidance. At Shaffer Family Law, we’ve supported countless clients across Maricopa County and the surrounding areas as they navigate divorce and other complex family law matters. We understand how difficult this transition can be, and we’re committed to helping you make informed decisions that protect both your future and that of your family.

Contact us at (480) 470-3030 or request your appointment online to speak with a member of our team. Let’s explore the best path forward together.

Child support is often misunderstood as a burden, but in truth, it exists to protect your child’s well-being. Providing financial support isn’t a punishment or a tool for control — it’s a way to ensure your children maintain a stable, positive standard of living that meets their needs. As a parent, contributing financially is part of offering the care, security, and opportunities your child deserves, in line with each parent’s ability to pay.

At Shaffer Family Law, we understand that navigating child support—whether you’re the parent paying or receiving—can feel overwhelming. That’s why we work closely with our clients during this challenging time, helping them reach fair and balanced arrangements that prioritize the well-being of their children. We are committed to guiding you through the process and ensuring the same positive outcome for your family.

In Arizona, child support is calculated using the Income Shares Model, which estimates the amount a child would receive if both parents were living together. Responsibility is then divided between the parents based on their individual incomes and financial circumstances, ensuring the child’s needs remain the top priority. Let’s take a closer look at how child support is calculated and the factors that influence the amount.

Key Factors That Determine Child Support in Arizona

Under Arizona law, child support is determined using a formula outlined in the Arizona Child Support Guidelines, which considers factors such as:

• Each Parent’s Gross Income: This includes all sources of income, not just traditional wages and salaries. Examples include commissions, investments, bonuses, pensions, and earnings from self-employment. If a parent is unemployed or underemployed, the court may estimate income based on their potential earning capacity.
• Number of Children: Considers how many children require support and their ages.
• Parenting Time: During a divorce, custody arrangements are formalized in a parenting plan that specifies the child’s residence and how time will be shared between parents. The amount of time each parent spends with the child can impact child support, with increased parenting time potentially reducing the amount of support owed.
• Health Insurance: When one parent provides health insurance for the child, the cost of the insurance is included in the calculation. If no parent provides coverage, the court may consider expected out-of-pocket medical expenses when determining the support amount.
• Educational and Childcare Expenses: Costs such as tuition, school supplies, extracurricular activities, daycare, or babysitting needed for a parent to work or attend school can be factored into support or addressed in parental agreements.
• Other Financial Obligations: Existing child support or court-ordered spousal maintenance (alimony) payments are taken into account.

Experienced Child Support Attorneys in Arizona at Shaffer Family Law

In most cases, when parents divorce, the parent who spends less time with the child—typically the noncustodial parent—is required to pay child support to the parent with primary custody. However, this support is meant to cover the child’s essential needs, including food, housing, clothing, education, and healthcare, regardless of which parent the child is with.

If you’d like to estimate child support on your own, the Arizona Judicial Branch offers a free online calculator. Keep in mind, however, that the court may order a different amount depending on each parent’s financial situation and the child’s unique needs.

Managing child support and family law matters can be complex, but Shaffer Family Law is here to assist you every step of the way. With extensive experience serving parents across Maricopa County and throughout Arizona, our family law attorneys handle a wide range of issues beyond child support, including divorce, child custody, property division, alimony and more. We are dedicated to protecting your rights while prioritizing the best interests of your child.

Contact us at (480) 470-3030 or request an appointment today to receive personalized guidance and dedicated representation for your case.

Sources:
https://www.azcourts.gov/familylaw/Child-Support-Family-Law-Information/About-the-Child-Support-Calculator#Which
https://superiorcourt.maricopa.gov/media/41epgvrd/drs1z.pdf

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You enter your golden years looking forward to retirement, eager to spend more time with your loved ones—including the spouse with whom you’ve shared a lifetime of memories. Yet, instead of feeling relaxed and secure about the future, this new chapter can bring difficult conversations about divorce and the possibility of starting over. For many older couples, often after decades of marriage, this is an increasingly common reality—a phenomenon known as “gray divorce.”

In fact, gray divorce rates have doubled over the last 30 years, and this trend isn’t limited to Arizona—it’s occurring nationwide. Several factors contribute to this rise, including growing societal acceptance of divorce, longer life spans, children leaving the home, and newfound financial or personal independence, among others.

Navigating a gray divorce can be complicated, and having a trusted firm like Shaffer Family Law by your side can make all the difference. Unlike younger couples, older adults face unique legal complexities, including health insurance, high-value assets, pensions, retirement savings, and Social Security benefits. Understanding these issues is essential for protecting your financial and personal well-being.

Understanding the Legal Considerations in a Gray Divorce

• Property Division: During their marriage, couples often accumulate significant assets, including real estate, vehicles, and business interests. In Arizona, assets acquired during the marriage are generally considered community property and subject to equitable division. Determining the value and division of long-term holdings—like the family home—can be complex, especially when sentimental value is involved.
• Retirement Accounts: After decades of work, many couples have substantial retirement savings, including 401(k)s, IRAs, and pensions. In a gray divorce, these accounts may represent the largest marital assets and dividing them can directly impact each spouse’s retirement plans and long-term financial security.
• Social Security Benefits: While Social Security benefits are not marital property and cannot be divided in a divorce, spouses married for at least 10 years, aged 62 or older, and currently unmarried may still be eligible to claim benefits based on their ex-spouse’s earnings.
• Health Insurance and Medicare: Divorce may result in the loss of coverage under a spouse’s health insurance plan. Options include securing a new plan through an employer, the Health Insurance Marketplace, or COBRA, which allows continued coverage for a limited period. For those 65 or older, you can become eligible for Medicare.
• Spousal Maintenance (Alimony): A lower-earning spouse—who may have sacrificed their career to support their partner or focus on raising children—may be awarded alimony to help maintain a comparable standard of living after the divorce.
• Estate Planning: After a divorce, it is crucial to update your estate plan and beneficiary designations. This ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes and reflect your updated circumstances, including retirement accounts, life insurance, and other long-term holdings.

Navigate Your Gray Divorce in Arizona with Expert Guidance from Shaffer Family Law

Gray divorce involves much more than simply ending a marriage; it brings emotional, financial, and family challenges that require careful planning and support. From fairly splitting the family home and other valuable assets to dividing retirement funds and navigating the loss of health insurance, the process can feel overwhelming. However, with the right guidance, it doesn’t have to be. With so much at stake, Shaffer Family Law is here to support you throughout the process, addressing your legal, economic, and personal concerns so you can make informed decisions that protect your interests and secure your future.

No matter your age, you deserve to live a fulfilling and happy life. If ending your marriage is the step toward that goal, we’re here for you every step of the way. If custody matters are part of your case, our attorneys can help you navigate those challenges with confidence. Call us at (480) 470-3030 or schedule your consultation online today.

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Family law matters can be emotionally overwhelming, especially because they involve the people closest to you—your soon-to-be ex-spouse and your children. These sensitive situations, including divorce, child custody, spousal support, and more, can have long-lasting effects on your life and your family.

At Shaffer Family Law, we understand that the decision of when to consult an attorney is ultimately yours. However, we typically advise our clients in Maricopa County and the surrounding areas that the best time to seek guidance is as soon as you feel your marriage has no chance of reconciliation. By this point, you’ve likely tried everything—marriage counseling, therapy, or other efforts—and nothing seems to work.

An experienced family law attorney can guide you through the proper steps and legal requirements to end your marriage, clarify your rights and responsibilities, and help you make informed decisions to protect both your future and your family’s well-being. Keep reading to discover the key signs that it’s time to hire an attorney and get the support you need.

Signs You May Need to Consult a Family Law Attorney in Arizona

• You Served or Got Served Divorce Papers: Divorce cases vary in complexity, and even seemingly straightforward situations can quickly become complicated, from disputes over child custody and parenting time to dividing property.
• Legal Paperwork: Handling the large volume of legal paperwork and documentation can be overwhelming, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the process. Even small errors—like incomplete or incorrectly filled sections—can lead to delays or rejection, prolonging the proceedings.
• Your Ex-Spouse Has An Attorney: If your former partner has retained a family law attorney, it’s crucial to have your own legal representation to protect your rights and ensure a fair process.
• Uncooperative Spouse: It’s common for couples going through a divorce to experience intense emotions such as anger and resentment, which can make it challenging to reach agreements on key issues. This lack of cooperation can prolong the legal process, adding emotional strain, legal costs, and uncertainty.
• Complex Financial Matters: Whether your divorce involves significant assets, like businesses or investments, or debts such as credit cards and loans, it’s important to ensure a fair and equitable division for both parties.
• You or Your Child Are in Danger: Situations involving domestic violence, neglect, or abuse require immediate action to protect yourself and your children.
• Child Arrangements: Decisions about your children’s care are often the most contested during a divorce and can lead to significant disputes. If parents cannot reach an agreement, a judge may step in to make the final decisions—decisions that may not always align with your preferences.
• Child and Spousal Support: In Arizona, the court uses specific formulas to calculate child and spousal support, with each type considering different factors that can increase or decrease the amount you receive. It’s important to ensure you receive the fair support to which you are entitled.

Get Reliable Support for Family Law Matters in Arizona With Shaffer Family Law

If you recognize any of the situations discussed above, it’s a clear sign that consulting a family law attorney may be necessary. Family law matters—whether they involve complex finances, child arrangements, or personal safety—can have lasting consequences for you and your family. Waiting too long can lead to unnecessary stress, costly mistakes, or outcomes you may later regret.

While some orders, like custody, parenting time, or support, can be modified later, the process can be complicated and requires court approval. Taking action early gives you the best chance to protect your rights, your family’s well-being, and your peace of mind.

At Shaffer Family Law in Arizona, we’ve helped countless families navigate these challenging situations, and we’re ready to do the same for you. Call (480) 470-3030 or book your consultation online to speak with an experienced attorney today to get the guidance and support you need to move forward with confidence.

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You’ve probably seen divorce proceedings portrayed in movies or TV shows—heated courtroom battles full of tension and conflict. While divorce can indeed be an emotional legal process, it doesn’t always have to be adversarial. In fact, there is a more amicable approach that allows couples to resolve their differences respectfully and efficiently.

In Arizona, as in other states, couples have alternatives to traditional litigation—one of which is collaborative divorce. Rather than battling in court, both spouses voluntarily work with their attorneys and other professionals to reach mutually beneficial agreements on key issues such as property division, child custody, and support . By encouraging open communication and cooperative problem-solving, this process helps minimize conflict and emotional stress, leading to healthier, more positive outcomes for everyone involved.

At Shaffer Family Law, we know divorce is never one-size-fits-all. With years of experience helping families navigate this difficult process, we are committed to addressing your unique needs with care and clarity. Our divorce attorneys will guide you through your options—whether a traditional divorce or a collaborative approach suits your situation—and provide trusted legal support at every stage.

The Advantages of Collaborative Divorce in Arizona

• Mutual Commitment: Both spouses must be willing to work together and negotiate openly. At the start of the process, each party signs a participation agreement, formally pledging to act in good faith and avoid litigation, ensuring a cooperative path forward.
• Reduced Stress and Conflict: Divorce can be emotionally challenging, with prolonged disputes and tension that may impact children. Collaborative divorce encourages spouses to focus on finding mutually agreeable solutions, fostering a calmer, less stressful, and more constructive process.
• Private and Confidential: Discussions take place in a controlled setting, often with only the spouses, their attorneys, and necessary professionals, avoiding the public exposure of court proceedings.
• Structured Support: Collaborative teams often include financial experts, child specialists, and coaches who provide guidance and reduce uncertainty.
• Greater Control: Couples have direct input into agreements, making the process predictable and less anxiety-inducing than leaving decisions to a judge.
• Focus on Solutions: By prioritizing problem-solving over “winning,” collaborative divorce fosters a respectful environment that preserves relationships and supports emotional well-being.

Contact Shaffer Family Law for Comprehensive Divorce Legal Support in Arizona

Deciding to divorce is never easy—it’s a major life change that can feel overwhelming. While collaborative divorce offers many benefits, it may not be the right fit for every couple. In some cases, the collaborative process may break down, requiring couples to start over in court. When this occurs, both collaborative attorneys must withdraw, and new legal representation is needed. Additionally, situations involving a history of abuse or domestic violence, lack of cooperation, or significant power imbalances may call for alternative approaches to ensure a safe and fair resolution.

Understanding your options and choosing the best path for your divorce can be complex, but you don’t have to go through it alone. At Shaffer Family Law, we’re here to help you achieve the best possible resolution. No matter the reasons for your decision to divorce, we are here to help you navigate the process, protecting your rights and interests while helping you move forward confidently into this new chapter of life. If you’re considering divorce in Arizona, contact Shaffer Family Law at (480) 470-3030 or schedule your consultation online today.

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We understand—once divorce papers are served or received, it’s natural to want the process to be over quickly. However, the legal process is underway from the moment one spouse (the petitioner) files for dissolution of marriage with the court. After the petition is filed, the spouse who has been served (the respondent) has 20 days to respond. If no response is filed within that time frame, the petitioner may request a default divorce once the mandatory waiting period has passed.

At this point, the timeline has officially begun, yet it’s important to remember that every divorce is unique. This means that the duration can vary widely depending on individual circumstances, including whether the divorce is contested or uncontested, whether children are involved, and the complexity of the issues at hand. Understanding what to expect can help reduce stress and set realistic expectations.

Having assisted many clients in Maricopa County and the surrounding areas with family law matters like divorce, we understand how disruptive this process can be—impacting work, home life, and peace of mind. That’s why consulting an experienced attorney, like those at Shaffer Family Law, can guide you through Arizona’s legal requirements and the divorce process, helping you navigate it with confidence.

Arizona Divorce Process Timeline: How Long Does a Divorce Take?

The length of a divorce in Arizona can vary widely depending on several factors. Some divorces proceed quickly and smoothly, while others take longer due to disagreements or complex circumstances. Key factors that can influence the timeline include:

• Standard Legal Requirements: At least one spouse must have resided in Arizona for a minimum of 90 days before filing. Arizona also requires a 60-day state-mandated waiting period before a divorce can be finalized. While a divorce could technically be finalized on the 61st day, it typically takes longer in practice.
• Default Divorce: This happens when the responding spouse does not reply. In such cases, the court can proceed with the divorce case without their participation.
• Uncontested Divorce: An uncontested divorce occurs when both parties agree on all matters, such as property division, child custody, and child support. Once the mandatory waiting period has passed and all paperwork is correctly filed, the divorce can typically be finalized soon after. More complex cases may take longer.
• Contested Divorce: When spouses cannot agree on one or more major issues, the divorce becomes contested. This can lengthen the process and may even result in a trial. The duration depends on the complexity of disputes and the willingness of both parties to negotiate, sometimes lasting several months or over a year.
• If Children Are Involved: Parents must decide on physical custody (parenting time) and legal custody (decision-making authority), and determine whether custody will be joint or sole. They also need to create a Parenting Plan outlining these arrangements and other important details. If the parents cannot reach an agreement, the court will decide in the child’s best interests. Read our latest blog to gain a deeper understanding of custody arrangements.

Get Expert Guidance from an Arizona Divorce Lawyer at Shaffer Family Law

As you’ve read, many factors can affect the length of your divorce. If you’re unsure how long your case may take, Shaffer Family Law is here to help. By reviewing the specifics of your situation, our attorneys can provide a clearer picture of your likely timeline. But we do more than just estimate timelines—Shaffer Family Law can assist you with all aspects of your divorce, from handling paperwork and negotiating agreements to representing you in trial if necessary.

Even if your divorce feels amicable, the process can quickly turn into an emotional roller coaster. That’s why having professional guidance is so important—to help you navigate the process with confidence and peace of mind. Call us at (480) 470-3030 today or schedule your consultation online. We look forward to hearing your story and supporting you through this difficult time.

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For parents going through a divorce, one of the first—and most important—questions is: What will happen with the children? It’s completely natural to feel anxious about custody decisions, especially since these changes directly affect the time you spend with your kids.

Arizona strongly encourages both parents to remain actively involved in their child’s life whenever possible. The law recognizes two main types of custody: legal custody (legal decision-making) and physical custody (parenting time). Understanding the difference between these types is essential, as they involve different responsibilities and affect your role as a parent. Courts typically limit these rights only when a parent is unwilling or deemed unfit to care for the child. However, it’s important not to assume custody matters can be managed without professional guidance.

At Shaffer Family Law, we have extensive experience guiding parents through the often complex custody process in Arizona. Our attorneys understand the unique challenges these cases bring and are dedicated to achieving outcomes that prioritize your family’s well-being and long-term stability.

Understanding Legal Custody vs. Physical Custody in Arizona

• What Is Legal Custody (Legal Decision-Making)?: This refers to the rights and responsibilities a parent has—either individually (sole legal custody) or jointly with the other parent (joint legal custody)—to make important decisions concerning their child’s life. These decisions often include areas such as education, healthcare, religion, and extracurricular activities.
• What is Physical Custody (Parenting Time)?: Defines where a child lives and who is responsible for their everyday care. With sole physical custody, the child primarily resides with one parent, who handles daily routines such as meals, bedtime, and school drop-offs. In joint physical custody arrangements, both parents share these caregiving responsibilities, with the child spending significant—but not always equal—time living with each parent.

Legal custody and physical custody are separate aspects of child custody, and they don’t always align equally. Parents can share physical custody while only one parent has legal decision-making authority, or conversely, parents may share legal custody while the child primarily lives with one parent.

Navigate Child Custody Matters with Trusted Legal Support at Shaffer Family Law

Parents are encouraged to negotiate all aspects of child custody, including legal decision-making and parenting time. While mutual agreements are ideal, disagreements can occur—even between amicable parents. When this happens, the court will determine custody based on family law guidelines. These guidelines consider several factors, such as the mental and physical health of all parties, the child’s relationship with each parent, and each parent’s ability to meet the child’s needs.

Once custody is determined, parents collaborate to create a parenting plan that outlines child custody arrangements in detail, including parenting schedules, decision-making responsibilities, communication methods, dispute resolution processes, and additional details such as transportation to school. For more information on how to create a parenting plan, check out our detailed blog post. However, if an agreement cannot be reached, a judge will set the terms based on what they believe serves the child’s best interests.

At Shaffer Family Law, we are dedicated to making the custody process as straightforward and stress-free as possible for families in Maricopa County and across Arizona. From start to finish, our child custody attorneys guide you every step of the way. We help you clearly understand your legal options, facilitate constructive discussions, and assist in creating a comprehensive parenting plan tailored to your family’s unique needs. In court, we advocate vigorously for your rights, striving to secure arrangements that protect your interests while prioritizing your child’s best interests.

Call us at (480) 470-3030 or schedule your consultation online today to take the next step forward.

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In every divorce, there are two sides to the story—yours and your soon-to-be ex-spouse’s. Each perspective is shaped by years of shared experiences, conflict, and personal emotions. While those stories may differ, when disputes over property division, child custody, spousal support, or legal decision-making can’t be resolved through mediation or negotiation, the court steps in to make a decision—based on facts, not feelings. Judges rely heavily on evidence to determine the facts of the case and to make fair, informed rulings. Evidence lays the groundwork for establishing credibility, supporting your claims, and challenging opposing arguments.

In these situations, the evidence you present becomes the foundation for protecting your rights and ensuring your side of the story is heard. At Shaffer Family Law, we’re here to help you do exactly that. We work closely with you to gather, preserve, and present clear, compelling evidence that strengthens your case and supports your best interests. Because when your future is on the line, every detail matters.

Common Types of Evidence Used in Arizona Family Law Cases

Evidence in family law cases can take many forms, but here are some of the most common types we see presented in court:

• Financial Documents: Financial matters are often at the heart of many divorces. Tax returns, pay stubs, bank statements, credit card reports, and property appraisals provide the court with a comprehensive picture of each party’s income, assets, and debts.
• Communication Records: The way you correspond with your ex-spouse—through emails, text messages, letters, audio recordings, or voicemails—can reveal patterns of cooperation, conflict, or behavior that may influence custody, parenting time, and support decisions.
• Social Media: Social media activity—including posts, photos, reels, comments, or even being tagged in someone else’s content—can serve as evidence of a spouse’s habits, behavior, and potential violations of court orders.
• Witness Testimony: Testimony from friends, family members, coworkers, or counselors brings a human perspective to the case. These personal accounts can validate one party’s claims, clarify disputed situations, and play a key role in shaping the court’s decisions.
• Expert Reports: Expert testimony provides clear, unbiased insight into complex issues such as psychological evaluations, financial assessments, property valuations, and child custody matters—helping the court make informed and fair decisions.
• Physical Evidence: Photos, videos, or medical records can document abuse, neglect, injuries, or living conditions that impact custody or protection orders.
• Parent-Child Relationship: Records of consistent involvement—like attending school events, medical appointments, or extracurricular activities—can support your claim of being an engaged and responsible parent.

Let Shaffer Family Law Be Your Trusted Partner in Navigating Family Law Matters in Arizona

In Arizona family law cases, evidence can significantly influence the outcome—but simply having it isn’t enough. The real impact lies in how effectively it’s gathered, organized, and presented in court. And not all evidence is admissible—unauthorized recordings, hearsay, or improperly obtained materials can be excluded and even weaken your position. That’s why partnering with a knowledgeable Arizona family law attorney matters. At Shaffer Family Law, we know how to build a strong, persuasive case that aligns with Arizona law, ensuring your side of the story is clearly understood and powerfully represented.

No matter where you are in the divorce process, whether you’re just getting started, have already served your ex, or are preparing for court, Shaffer Family Law is here to protect your rights and help secure the best possible outcome for you and your family. Call (480) 470-3030 today or schedule your consultation online to take the next step forward.

Sources:
https://hellodivorce.com/ready-for-divorce/guide-to-presenting-evidence-in-family-court
https://natlawreview.com/article/navigating-divorce-key-evidence-strategies-family-law-cases

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