Tips from Chandler family law attorney

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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Deciding to end a marriage is one of the most difficult and life-altering decisions a couple can face—something many Arizona couples encounter each year. However, divorce, also known as the dissolution of marriage, isn’t the only option available. If you’re unsure about taking that final step, legal separation offers a practical and flexible alternative. It provides the space and structure you need while allowing you to maintain your marital status. Unlike divorce, legal separation does not officially end the marriage. Still, it allows you and your spouse to live apart and legally address important matters such as finances, property division, and parenting arrangements under Arizona law.

At Shaffer Family Law, we understand that you don’t want to make a decision you might later regret, yet you also need clear guidance about your options. In fact, many couples use legal separation as a kind of “trial period” before deciding whether to pursue divorce. Additionally, some Arizona couples choose legal separation over divorce for a variety of reasons—including religious beliefs, health insurance concerns, financial advantages, or the hope for reconciliation.

However, when faced with the choice between legal separation and divorce, it’s important to weigh several key factors carefully. In Arizona, both options are available but serve different purposes and come with distinct legal implications. Understanding these differences is essential to making the most informed decision for your future.

Legal Separation vs. Divorce in Arizona: Key Differences You Need to Know

• Marital Status: With a legal separation, you and your spouse remain legally married, despite living apart. A divorce, on the other hand, officially ends the marriage, allowing both individuals to remarry if they choose.
• Reversibility: Divorce is permanent—if a couple reconciles after a divorce, they must remarry to restore their legal relationship. Legal separation, however, can either be converted into a divorce or ended entirely if the couple decides to reconcile and continue their marriage.
• Residency Duration: Arizona requires at least 90 days of residency to file for divorce, whereas legal separation only requires that one spouse be an Arizona resident at the time the separation petition is filed.
• Mutual Agreement: Legal separation requires both spouses to agree to the arrangement. If one spouse opposes, the court may move forward with a divorce instead. By contrast, only one spouse needs to file for divorce, provided the court finds the marriage irretrievably broken.
• Health Insurance & Benefits: In some cases, a legally separated spouse may remain on the other’s health insurance plan. Divorce typically terminates this coverage and other spousal benefits.
• Financial Considerations: Legal separation may preserve certain financial benefits, such as tax filing status or retirement plan access. Divorce legally separates all financial ties and may impact taxes, estate planning, and benefits.
• Division of Assets and Debts: Divorce in Arizona finalizes a legally binding division of all assets and debts. By comparison, legally separated spouses maintain equal ownership of community property and share responsibility for debts incurred during the marriage. Debts accumulated after separation are typically the individual responsibility of each spouse.

Get Expert Legal Separation and Divorce Assistance in Arizona at Shaffer Family Law

In Arizona, filing for legal separation closely mirrors the divorce process. Instead of submitting a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage, you file a Petition for Legal Separation, which formalizes the terms of your separation while keeping the marriage legally intact. Both processes involve court filings, serving your spouse, and resolving key issues such as property division, child custody, and support. Check out our blog for detailed instructions on the filing process.

Whether legal separation or divorce is the right path for you, Shaffer Family Law is here to provide expert support and guidance every step of the way. Each path carries unique legal, financial, and emotional considerations. With so much at stake, trust Shaffer Family Law in Arizona to manage your case with the care and experience it deserves. Call (480) 470-3030 today or request an appointment online today and take the first step toward a brighter future.

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Divorce is challenging—but when a business is part of the equation, the stakes are even higher. For many Americans, owning a business isn’t just a job—it’s a dream built on vision, sacrifice, and years of relentless effort. Whether it’s a neighborhood bakery, a pet supply store, a restaurant, or a thriving dental practice, protecting what you’ve built during a divorce demands careful planning and experienced support.

For many business owners, their company is their most valuable asset. In Arizona, a state of community property, assets and income acquired by either spouse during the marriage are generally considered joint property. However, the distinction between personal and business assets is not always clear-cut. Even if one spouse had no direct role in the business, their contributions—such as managing household responsibilities or offering ongoing emotional support—can still create a claim to the business’s value.

If you’re a business owner facing divorce in Arizona, the future of your company could be on the line. At Shaffer Family Law, we understand the complexities involved and are committed to helping you protect what you’ve built. Knowing how to safeguard your assets—especially your business—is crucial when navigating a divorce in Arizona. Here are some effective ways to start protecting your business today.

• Sign a Formal Agreement: If you’re not yet married, a pre-nuptial agreement allows you and your future spouse to clearly define which assets—including your business—will remain separate in the event of divorce. If you’re already married, a post-nuptial agreement can serve a similar purpose.
• Separate or Community Property: Determine if your business is separate or community property. While a business founded before marriage usually starts as separate property, if it grows significantly during the marriage or marital funds and efforts are used, it can convert to community property and be subject to division.
• Gather Financial Documentation: Maintain detailed records—such as tax returns, balance sheets, account statements, and profit and loss reports—to help assess your business’s value and clarify whether it’s separate or community property.
• Avoid Using Marital Funds: Keep a clear separation between personal and business expenses to protect your business as separate property.
• Get a Professional Business Valuation: You and your spouse may have differing views on your business’s worth. Hiring a neutral third-party valuation expert provides an objective assessment, helping ensure any division is based on accurate, fair numbers.
• Pay Fair Salaries: If you or your spouse work in the business, make sure both receive competitive, market-rate pay. This helps prevent claims of unpaid marital income and reduces the risk of disputes over business ownership shares.
• Work with a Divorce Attorney: Dividing a business in divorce is complex—and not every attorney is equipped for it. Partner with a legal team like Shaffer Family Law that focuses on Arizona family law and has the experience to protect your business assets every step of the way.

Protect Your Business and Assets During Divorce with Trusted Arizona Attorneys at Shaffer Family Law

Protecting your business in divorce takes more than good intentions—it takes strategy. As you’ve seen, when a business is involved, divorce becomes far more complex. Taking proactive steps now can make all the difference in safeguarding your livelihood and ensuring a smoother process.

Dividing a business in divorce is rarely straightforward. It’s one of the most complex—and contested—assets to untangle. Without the right legal strategy, you could be forced to buy out your spouse, sell the business, or surrender other valuable assets just to keep what you’ve built. At Shaffer Family Law, we help Arizona business owners take control of the outcome. Whether you’re seeking a fair division or aiming to prove your spouse isn’t entitled to a share, our attorneys are ready to fight for you—through strategic negotiation or aggressive litigation. Call (480) 470-3030 today or schedule your consultation online. Your business deserves strong protection—and we’re here to deliver it.

Sources:

https://www.entrepreneur.com/starting-a-business/how-to-divorce-proof-your-company/220124

https://www.forbes.com/sites/frawleypollock/2019/02/19/everything-you-need-to-know-about-protecting-your-business-in-a-divorce/

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Divorce rarely happens overnight. It’s often the result of months or even years of built-up resentment, unresolved conflict, financial pressure, and emotional disconnect. For families, summer offers a natural pause in the usual routine, but for parents who are already struggling in their marriage, it can become a make-or-break season.

Parents often view summer as an opportunity to reconnect as a family, and for good reason. It’s a season full of anticipation, with vacations, theme parks, road trips, and visits with extended family. The slower pace and extra time together promise fun and meaningful bonding.

Unfortunately, for some couples, the stress doesn’t ease during summer—it often intensifies. With more time spent together, fewer distractions, and the pressure to create picture-perfect memories, unresolved issues can quickly surface. Instead of bringing families closer, summer can reveal just how far apart some couples have grown.

At Shaffer Family Law, we’re here to guide you through your legal options and support you every step of the way. If you’re facing challenges in your marriage this summer, know that you’re not alone. Studies show that divorce rates consistently peak in August.

Why Divorce Rates Increase at the End of Summer

• Consideration for Their Children: Many couples delay divorce to protect their children’s stability, often waiting until the children finish school or leave for college. This helps minimize disruptions during the school year and provides children with time to adjust before the new academic term begins.
• More Time Together: While summer is often seen as a time for family bonding, spending extended periods together without the usual breaks can sometimes cause the qualities you once admired in your partner to become sources of irritation.
• Falling Short of Expectations: When a much-anticipated vacation doesn’t live up to the promise, the resulting disappointment and frustration can widen the distance between partners.
• Financial Strain: The vacation you hoped would help heal your relationship can sometimes have the opposite effect, especially when finances are already tight. Financial challenges can push stress to the breaking point, intensifying tension and deepening existing conflicts.
• Time for Reflection: Summer gives you a chance to catch your breath and reset. With more time for yourself, you might start questioning if this relationship is really what you want, which can lead to some tough but necessary conversations about your future together.
• Infidelity: This is the opposite of spending quality time together. Yet, during the warm, carefree months—whether taking time off work, traveling for business, or on vacation—the likelihood of meeting someone new can sneak up on you.

Navigate Your Summer Divorce with Shaffer Family Law by Your Side

While it’s true that divorce filings often increase in August, the reality is there’s never a perfect time to end a marriage. It’s completely natural to want to stick it out and hope things will get better, but sometimes, staying in a broken relationship can do more harm than good. Persistent tension, ongoing conflict, and emotional stress take a significant toll, especially on children. In many cases, divorce can pave the way for a healthier, more stable environment for everyone involved.

At Shaffer Family Law, we understand how difficult and emotional these decisions can be. Whether you’re preparing to file for divorce this summer or just considering your options, our experienced family law attorneys are here to help. We’re equipped to handle every aspect of the divorce process—from providing clear answers to your questions to advocating for your rights—so you can confidently move forward in your new chapter.

Contact us at (480) 470-3030 or request an appointment online to learn how we can help you navigate this challenging time and work toward a positive outcome.

Sources:

https://www.washington.edu/news/2016/08/21/is-divorce-seasonal-uw-research-shows-biannual-spike-in-divorce-filings/

https://www.businessinsider.com/why-divorce-rates-peak-in-august-2019-8

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