Kansas City Family Law Attorney
Bringing You Peace of Mind
in a Chaotic Family Crisis
No one intends for family matters to reach a crisis point. When they do, you need a knowledgeable, calm force beside you. We have the skill and experience to guide you through the legal process to the other side of that crisis.
Michelle Egbert
Family Law Attorney
DIVORCE
Divorce is a difficult and emotionally charged process. The decision to get divorced is never an easy one, and it can be overwhelming to navigate the legal system on your own. That’s where we come in as your trusted Kansas City Family Law Attorney.
At Patton and Patton, we understand the complexities of divorce and the impact it can have on individuals and families. Our goal is to provide compassionate and empathetic legal guidance during this difficult time. We believe that every person going through a divorce deserves personalized attention and support from their attorney.
Divorce involves many legal issues, including property division, child custody, and spousal support. These matters can become highly contentious if not handled properly. We have the knowledge and expertise to help you make informed decisions and protect your rights throughout this process.
At Patton and Patton, we strive to provide our clients with not only exceptional legal representation but also emotional support during this challenging time. We are here to listen, understand, and advocate for your rights. Trust us to handle the legal complexities of your divorce so you can focus on healing and moving forward with your life.
PROTECTION FROM ABUSE
As Kansas City Family Law Attorneys, we have seen firsthand the devastating effects of abuse on families. It creates an environment of fear and intimidation leaving victims feeling trapped. The good news is that there are legal options available for victims of abuse.
One such option is a Protection From Abuse Order (PFA). This legal order can provide victims of abuse with the necessary protection and support to break free from their abuser and start a new chapter in their lives. A Protection From Abuse Order is a court-issued document that prohibits an abuser from contacting, threatening, or harming the victim in any way. It can also provide victims with temporary custody of their children and possession of their shared residence.
To obtain a PFA, the victim must file a petition with the court. The court may grant a temporary order and then hold a hearing to determine if there is enough evidence to continue the order. If granted, a PFA can last up to one year and can be renewed if necessary. Once a PFA is in place, victims can also pursue legal action against their abuser. This may include filing for divorce. It is important to consult with a dedicated and experienced Kansas City Family Law Attorney who can guide you through the legal process and ensure that your rights are protected.
If you or someone you know is a victim of abuse, please know that there is help and support available. In addition to seeking legal protection, it is important to reach out to organizations and resources that can provide emotional support and assistance in finding safety. Abuse can make victims feel isolated and alone, but it is important to remember that you are not alone. Organizations like the National Domestic Violence Hotline and local shelters can provide confidential support and resources for victims of abuse.
As Kansas City Family Law Attorneys, we are committed to helping victims of abuse find safety and justice. If you or someone you know is in need of legal protection from an abuser, do not hesitate to reach out for help. Remember, you deserve to live a life free from abuse and there are legal options available to help you achieve that.
CHILD CUSTODY
Child custody is a sensitive and complex legal matter that arises when parents separate or divorce. Courts make decisions on child custody arrangements based on what the court believes is in the best interest of the child. This means that the court takes into consideration various factors such as the child’s emotional and physical well-being, their relationship with each parent, and their wishes if they are old enough to express them.
As Kansas City Family Law Attorneys, we think it is important to provide you with in-depth information about child custody laws. Kansas recognizes two types of child custody arrangements that can be granted by the court: legal custody and physical custody. Legal custody refers to the right and responsibility to make major decisions on behalf of the child, such as education, medical care, and welfare. Physical custody, or “parenting time,” refers to where the child will reside and spend their time.
In Kansas, joint legal custody is preferred. This means that both parents have equal rights and responsibilities when it comes to making major decisions for their child. Physical custody can be granted solely to one parent (sole custody) or shared between both parents (joint custody). It is important to note that even if one parent has sole physical custody, there are still situations where the other parent has rights to visitation.
The court will also consider the wishes of the child when making a determination on child custody arrangements. While there is no specific age at which the child’s wishes can be considered, the court will take into account their maturity level and ability to express their preferences. It is important for parents to encourage open communication with their child and to consider their wishes when coming up with a parenting plan.
As Kansas City Family Law Attorneys, we understand that child custody can be a difficult and emotional process for all parties involved. Our goal is to provide you with the necessary information and guidance to help you navigate this complex legal matter. At Patton and Patton, we will work tirelessly to help you achieve the best possible outcome for you and your child.
CHILD SUPPORT
Child support is the ongoing financial obligation that parents have to provide for their children. It is typically paid by the non-custodial parent (the parent with whom the child does not primarily reside) to the custodial parent (the parent with whom the child primarily resides). The purpose of child support is to ensure that both parents contribute to the financial needs of their children, even after a divorce or separation. In Kansas, child support calculations are based on a number of factors, including the income of both parents, the number of children involved, and any special needs or expenses related to the children. Other considerations may include the parenting schedule and health insurance costs. It is important to note that child support is not just a set amount, but rather a flexible calculation based on the unique circumstances of each case.
Unfortunately, some parents may fail to meet their child support obligations, causing financial strain for the custodial parent and children. In such cases, it may be necessary to enforce the child support order through legal means. As Kansas City Family Law Attorneys, we have experience in helping clients enforce child support orders and ensure that children receive the financial support they are entitled to.
Life circumstances can change, and this may impact the amount of child support paid or received. In such cases, it may be necessary to modify the existing child support order to better reflect the current situation. As Kansas City Family Law Attorneys, we can assist you in seeking a modification of child support based on changes in income, health care expenses, or other relevant factors.
As Kansas City Family Law Attorneys, we are dedicated to providing compassionate representation for our clients. If you have questions about child support or need assistance with your case, don’t hesitate to contact us for a consultation. Remember, understanding your rights and responsibilities regarding child support is crucial in ensuring the well-being of your children. So, be informed and seek the help of a trusted attorney in navigating this important aspect of family law. Let’s work together to provide the best possible outcome for you and your children. After all, their happiness and financial stability are worth fighting for.
Michelle Egbert
PROVIDING STRENGTH WITH CALM
No one intends for family matters to reach a crisis point. When they do, you need a knowledgeable, calm force beside you. Michelle Egbert has the skill and experience to guide you through the legal process to the other side of that crisis.
Before pursuing her Juris Doctor degree, Michelle spent fifteen years in professional and lay church ministry in the greater Kansas City Area. As a minister she worked with all ages, from children to the elderly. Just like ministry, being a family law attorney is a service that reaches cradle to grave. She intentionally applies her compassion for people to the practice of family law and her passion for justice to advocate zealously for her clients.
While gaining a family law emphasis at UMKC School of Law, Michelle worked in the Child and Family Services Clinic, interned with the Attorneys for the Juvenile Officer in the Kansas City, Missouri family court, and authored an article on how technology might benefit survivors of domestic violence for the Journal of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers. She was the first student member of the Johnson County Family Law Inn of the Court and is now an associate level member of the Inn.
Michelle graduated magna cum laude from Grove City College in Pennsylvania with a bachelor’s degree in Music and Religion. She received her Juris Doctor with honors from the University of Missouri Kansas City School of Law. In her practice, Michelle seeks to protect families and survivors of domestic violence.