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Arizona Family Law Questions & Answers
1 Answer | Asked in Child Custody, Divorce and Family Law for Arizona on
Q: Can I use current temporary orders in place of original petition in a divorce default hearing?

Husband was ordered to complete a drug program, drug testing, and psych evaluation that was not completed.

T. Augustus Claus
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answered on Dec 27, 2023

In the context of a divorce default hearing in Arizona, you may have the option to use current temporary orders, particularly if your husband has failed to comply with the court-ordered drug program, testing, and psych evaluation. The non-compliance with these orders could significantly impact the... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Family Law and Divorce for Arizona on
Q: I started an LLC during the marriage with husband's consent. It was only a few months old when divorce papers served.

There is debt associated with the business (a business credit card and money we owe a business coach). I am no longer working on the business, having had to get a job since my estranged husband agreed to be the breadwinner while we got the business up and running. When he left, I had limited... View More

Kristina Cervone
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answered on Dec 20, 2023

In general, business debt follows the business. So whoever retains the business takes that debt with the business. It is usually calculated into the equity of the business when determining its value. However, if the debt is not in the business name but in one of the parties' name, the debt... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Divorce and Family Law for Arizona on
Q: I went through a divorce recently and the decree states for her to pay out a certain $$. Also it states to refinance.

If she is able to pay me out but not refinance, is she held in contempt? It also states to sell property if she can’t meet the court’s ruling. Please let me know, thank you!

Kristina Cervone
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answered on Dec 20, 2023

For someone to be found in contempt, the facts must show that the person knew about the order and willfully disobeyed the order. Based on what you stated, it appears the court is most likely trying to accomplish two goals with its order: pay you the equity in the property that your ex retained and... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Family Law for Arizona on
Q: If the victim of an adult protection service is under investigation in Arizona, can the victim move out of state?

My brother is involved in an adult protection service (APS) in Arizona, he is the victim in this scenario. He wants to move in with me here in Wisconsin but doesn't know if he can move out of state during an ongoing investigation. He wants to move for his protection. He is a disabled adult.

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Dec 20, 2023

In Arizona, if an individual involved with Adult Protective Services (APS) as a victim wishes to move out of state, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. Generally, a victim of abuse, neglect, or exploitation has the right to choose where they live, but this decision can be complex,... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Civil Rights, Family Law and Child Custody for Arizona on
Q: Is due process or civil rights violated if children are removed from parent but parent has not been allowed statefact?

Dcs removed children from parent but parent has not been interviewed or allowed to state facts before court was given the PPH report an children remain in dcs physical custody and stipulations for reunification have been given without the parent being allowed to defend themselves.

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Dec 5, 2023

In Arizona, due process and civil rights are crucial elements in child custody cases involving the Department of Child Safety (DCS). If children are removed from a parent's care and the parent is not given an opportunity to present their side of the story before the court makes decisions, this... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Family Law for Arizona on
Q: If I have received an order of dismissal does this mean that the temporary orders that were in place are no longer?

ORDER OF DISMISSAL

The Court previously notified the parties that this case would be dismissed on November 12, 2023 without further notice unless specific action was taken prior to said date. No such action having occurred,

IT IS ORDERED dismissing this matter in its entirety... View More

Stephen M Vincent
Stephen M Vincent
answered on Nov 30, 2023

Temporary orders are, as the name suggests, "temporary," i.e., they are only in effect until the Court issues a final ruling. A dismissal is a final ruling.

There is a way to preserve temporary orders even when a case is dismissed, but one of the parties would have to have...
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1 Answer | Asked in Family Law and Juvenile Law for Arizona on
Q: Does the minor have to file an emancipation petition in person? Or can a guardian receive it and fill it out at home?
Mike Branum
Mike Branum
answered on Nov 17, 2023

Someone can assist a minor with completing a Petition for Emancipation, but the minor must be the one signing the Petition in the presence of a Notary. If a minor is not capable of completing a Petition for Emancipation, I would have serious concerns about their capacity to be found entitled to... View More

2 Answers | Asked in Divorce and Family Law for Arizona on
Q: In divorce in Arizona, asking for spousal support, no agreement has been reached. Two court dates nothing reached.

I cannot afford to continue. How to cancel my attorney? End the divorce with out getting spousal support. Everything else is agreed upon.

T. Augustus Claus
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answered on Oct 23, 2023

If you're in an Arizona divorce case involving spousal support and want to stop the proceedings, start by discussing your intention with your attorney. Review your attorney-client agreement for guidance on the termination process, and follow the specified procedures. Ensure open communication... View More

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2 Answers | Asked in Divorce and Family Law for Arizona on
Q: In divorce in Arizona, asking for spousal support, no agreement has been reached. Two court dates nothing reached.

I cannot afford to continue. How to cancel my attorney? End the divorce with out getting spousal support. Everything else is agreed upon.

Jonathan Roeder
Jonathan Roeder
answered on Oct 30, 2023

At anytime you may terminate the relationship with your attorney with or without cause. Accordingly, it is best to do so in writing. But prior to doing so, I would recommend having a transparent discussion with your attorney as it sounds like you and your spouse are close to full agreements. If... View More

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1 Answer | Asked in Divorce, Family Law, Child Custody and Child Support for Arizona on
Q: How can I obtain a new hearing due to a variety of circumstances?

Going through a divorce and in a custody battle with my husband. He is a functioning alcoholic and weedhead. In our Temporary Custody Hearing last Wednesday, the father was cross examined by his attorney and she asked if he smoked or drank and he said no. When court ended, I found a post on her... View More

Stephen M Vincent
Stephen M Vincent
answered on Oct 23, 2023

- MOTION TO REVIEW NEW EVIDENCE: The answer is probably no, but you can give it a try by filing a Motion for Reconsideration. You'll need to explain (1) why you don't produce this evidence at trial because the Court can't consider newly discovered evidence that could have been found... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Child Custody, Child Support, Divorce and Family Law for Arizona on
Q: How do I secure spousal support in my divorce?

We have been married for 10+ years. I experienced a significant amount of domestic abuse in the marriage and left the home 18 months ago. I left our 10 year old with his father as my husband ruined my credit and finances. My husband now makes twice as much as I do. He makes so much now that he has... View More

Stephen M Vincent
Stephen M Vincent
answered on Oct 23, 2023

You can file a motion for temporary spousal maintenance and ask to receive spousal maintenance while the case is pending. You can also for temporary custody (or, more specifically, temporary legal decision-making and parenting time) and an interim award of attorney's fees.

Domestic...
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1 Answer | Asked in Divorce and Family Law for Arizona on
Q: Which attorney takes the lead in divorce settlement requesting spousal support? Petitioner or Respondents?

Everything else is settled except spousal support. We have been to court 2xs so judge can see how we’re progressing. Very expense!

John Michael Frick
John Michael Frick
answered on Oct 15, 2023

Typically the attorney for the party seeking spousal support will take the lead on questioning because that spouse has the burden of proof. They generally have to introduce sufficient evidence showing they are entitled to support, typically by proving they suffer from some type of disability or... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Divorce and Family Law for Arizona on
Q: Do I need a lawyer to make my ex refund alimony he has been cheating me of? Or can it be filed as contempt of court?

I was divorced in GA. I live in Alabama and my ex has a residence in Tuscan, AZ. He has been cheating me of the correct alimony for several years. I am limited financially and would like to know if I woiuld need a lawyer. If not, how should I proceed. I do not mind paying something. I am on SSI, so... View More

John Michael Frick
John Michael Frick
answered on Oct 12, 2023

You should retain a Georgia lawyer in or near the county where your divorce was granted to enforce the alimony provisions of the decree. That will be the lion's share of the legal work. If necessary, after that has been completed, you may have to retain an Arizona lawyer to register and... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Animal / Dog Law, Child Custody and Family Law for Arizona on
Q: If my child’s father is abusive to his dog, will I be able to get sole custody of our baby
Stephen M Vincent
Stephen M Vincent
answered on Oct 10, 2023

It's unusual, but it's possible. Animal cruelty is one of the listed crimes under the domestic violence statute. It may depend on whether his actions meet the standards of animal cruelty (see ARS 13-2910) and whether those actions are significant enough to impact what should happen with... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Family Law for Arizona on
Q: What happens if the other party files their response but I dont get served with a copy?

I filed my papers about a month ago, and I found out through word of mouth that the other party files her response. However I have not received anything from them, their attorney, or the court. Will the case move forward even if I haven't received anything? Is there any action I can take if... View More

Stephen M Vincent
Stephen M Vincent
answered on Oct 10, 2023

Yes, your case is moving forward even without them giving you a copy. You should reach out to the other party's attorney, inform them you didn't receive a copy, and make sure they have the right email address and mailing address for you. You also should double check the Court records to... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Domestic Violence, Family Law and Child Custody for Arizona on
Q: I refused to deliver my daughter to father due to mental breakdown, now im in contempt but im protecting her from abuse.

We had a hearing and despite my evidence that we are victims and father has a significant history of domestic violence and abuse, plus procedural errors like allowing another person to advise father (off camera) and speak during the hearing while on zoom, not allowing me time to present my case,... View More

Stephen M Vincent
Stephen M Vincent
answered on Oct 9, 2023

Sounds like your best option is probably to going to be filing a Motion for Reconsideration.

The standard for dismissing a judge for bias is so high that you are very unlikely succeed. I do not recommend going that route.

If you have evidence Father lied, present it and let it speak...
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1 Answer | Asked in Family Law and Child Support for Arizona on
Q: How to dimiss an case that was filed by the state of California against respondent?

This case in which the original case was filed by the state of California

against the Respondent for child supoort.

The respondent wants to use the case as a custody case against the petioner.

I want to dismiss that case on the grounds that the original case was not for... View More

Stephen M Vincent
Stephen M Vincent
answered on Oct 9, 2023

Did California issue a child support order? If so, it must be registered here for the custody case, in which support must be determined. An Arizona court cannot modify the California support order unless it's properly registered and in front of the Arizona court. For that reason, I don't... View More

2 Answers | Asked in Criminal Law, Family Law, Real Estate Law and Child Custody for Arizona on
Q: I found a bag that has remnants of what could be crystal meth in my bathroom trash, its my kid's dad. What can I do?

We live in AZ. He lies a lot. We have a mortgage together. What can I do legally to find out and if it is, get him out of home and away from kids?

Stephen M Vincent
Stephen M Vincent
answered on Oct 2, 2023

You probably need to get it tested. Then once you find out it is meth, you need to ask him to submit to a drug test. If it's positive, you could use that as a reason to get temporary emergency custody (i.e., legal decision-making and parenting time) over the children.

If you're...
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1 Answer | Asked in Family Law and Child Custody for Arizona on
Q: I got an OOP after my ex got court order to turn over minor to him . Will I get in trouble? Do I inform the court?

I had residential custody and he had ldm and suddenly without consideration of his consider it d v past a judge grabted him custody of our minor even if he's probation for abuse of her and violating an oop, and with medical reports stating she is autistic and terrified of him and needed... View More

Stephen M Vincent
Stephen M Vincent
answered on Oct 2, 2023

You need to stop and consult with an attorney. I certainly understand why you did what you did, but I worry you could be making a bad situation worse.

The Order of Protection has not been served, so it is not in effect. That means you are technically violating the order when you do not...
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1 Answer | Asked in Family Law and Social Security for Arizona on
Q: How do I look up a court order number to see what they're for?
James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Sep 28, 2023

To look up a court order number and understand its purpose, you typically need to contact the court clerk's office where the order was issued. They can provide you with the case information and details related to the order. You may need to provide relevant case information or parties involved... View More

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