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Same-Sex Divorce and Family Law Services in Houston

Same-Sex Divorce and Family Law Services in Houston

October 18, 2024

Understanding Same-Sex Divorce in Houston Since the landmark Supreme Court decision in 2015 legalizing same-sex marriage across the United States, LGBTQ+ couples in Texas have the same legal rights to marry and divorce as heterosexual couples. However, the process of same-sex divorce in Texas can present unique challenges, especially when it comes to issues like child custody, division of property, and spousal support. At The Renken Law Firm, we provide experienced, compassionate legal representation to guide you through these complexities and ensure your rights are fully protected. Whether the divorce is contested or uncontested, our firm will guide you through every step of the process, from filing the initial petition to finalizing the divorce decree. We also offer mediation services to help couples resolve their disputes amicably, which can result in a quicker and less costly divorce process. Our goal is to help you reach a fair resolution while minimizing the emotional toll on you and your family. Key Considerations in Same-Sex Divorce The Renken Law Firm will advocate for a fair spousal support arrangement, taking into account the financial circumstances of both parties, the duration of the relationship, and each spouse’s contributions to the marriage. Whether you are seeking spousal support or trying to limit your obligation to provide it, we can help ensure that your financial rights are protected. Adoption, Custody, and Parental Rights for Same-Sex Couples Beyond divorce, same-sex couples often encounter legal challenges related to their parental rights. In Texas, non-biological parents in same-sex marriages must complete a legal adoption process to secure parental rights. If this process is not completed, the non-biological parent may have no legal standing in child custody disputes, even if they have been a primary caregiver. At The Renken Law Firm, we assist same-sex couples with second-parent adoptions, ensuring that both

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Best Attorney for Contested Divorce Case in Houston

Best Attorney for Contested Divorce Case in Houston

October 10, 2024

When faced with a contested divorce, it is crucial to find an attorney who is not only experienced but also knowledgeable about Texas divorce law, particularly in Houston, where family law courts deal with a variety of complex cases. Contested divorces can be emotionally taxing, financially draining, and legally intricate. Unlike an uncontested divorce, where both parties agree on all major issues such as asset division, child custody, and spousal support, a contested divorce often involves disputes that require legal intervention and sometimes even a trial. This is where choosing the best attorney for your contested divorce case becomes critical. At Renken Law Firm in Houston, we understand the complexity of contested divorce cases and the significant impact they can have on your life, both short-term and long-term. This blog aims to provide an informative guide on why hiring the right attorney for your contested divorce is essential, what to look for in an attorney, and how our firm can assist you throughout the process. Why Choosing the Right Attorney Matters in a Contested Divorce Divorce can be one of the most stressful experiences in a person’s life. When it comes to a contested divorce, the stakes are even higher because the process involves disputes that require resolution through negotiation, mediation, or courtroom litigation. In a contested divorce, the issues typically revolve around: Because these issues can affect your financial future, emotional well-being, and relationship with your children, it’s crucial to have a skilled attorney by your side to protect your interests. Here’s why choosing the best attorney for your case matters: 1. Expertise in Texas Family Law Contested divorces in Texas operate under specific state laws, which govern asset division, child custody arrangements, and other family law issues. Texas is a community property state, meaning that any property acquired

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Choosing Mediation for Your Divorce in Houston A Comprehensive Guide

Choosing Mediation for Your Divorce in Houston A Comprehensive Guide

October 4, 2024

Divorce is undoubtedly one of the most challenging experiences a person can face. The emotional toll, financial strain, and the overwhelming legal intricacies can make this a daunting process. However, there are alternative methods to litigation that can help streamline and simplify divorce proceedings. One such alternative is mediation. For couples in Houston looking for a less adversarial and more cost-effective way to dissolve their marriage, mediation might be the right solution. At The Renken Law Firm, we understand the complexities of divorce and the need for a resolution that considers both parties’ interests. This blog post will explore why choosing mediation in Houston could be the best approach for your divorce, and how The Renken Law Firm can assist in navigating this process. What is Divorce Mediation? Mediation is an alternative dispute resolution process in which a neutral third party, known as a mediator, helps couples negotiate and reach mutual agreements on key issues such as child custody, division of assets, and alimony. Unlike traditional litigation, mediation encourages communication and compromise, fostering a more amicable environment for resolving disputes. The mediator does not have the power to make binding decisions, as a judge would in a court setting. Instead, they facilitate conversations, help clarify points of contention, and assist in drafting a final settlement agreement. Once both parties agree on the terms, the settlement is presented to a judge for approval, making it legally binding. Benefits of Mediation Over Litigation In Houston, mediation is not only a popular option but is also encouraged by many courts, which recognize its potential to resolve disputes in a more peaceful and satisfactory manner. Why Choose Mediation for Your Houston Divorce? Divorce in Houston, as in any large metropolitan area, can be complex. Texas divorce laws require an equitable division of assets, and

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As a Grandparent Can I Fight for Custody in Houston

As a Grandparent Can I Fight for Custody in Houston?

September 29, 2024

Grandparents often play a vital role in their grandchildren’s lives, sometimes stepping in as caregivers when parents face difficulties. However, when circumstances make it necessary for a grandparent to seek legal custody of their grandchild, the process can be complex. Navigating the legal system in Houston, and Texas more broadly, can be a daunting task, especially if you’re unsure of your rights. In this blog, we explore how grandparents can seek custody in Houston and when the courts may intervene in favor of grandparents. We also explain how The Renken Law Firm can assist you every step of the way in this emotional and potentially life-changing pursuit. Understanding Custody Laws in Texas In Texas, custody is referred to as conservatorship, and courts typically prioritize the biological parents when determining the best custody arrangement for a child. Texas law operates under the presumption that a child’s parents are the best guardians for their welfare and development. However, this presumption can be challenged in certain circumstances, particularly when it becomes clear that the parents are unfit or incapable of providing adequate care for the child. When grandparents seek custody, they must prove that doing so is in the best interest of the child. The legal system focuses on the child’s safety, emotional well-being, and overall stability. Given the complexity of such cases, understanding when and how a grandparent can step in is essential. At The Renken Law Firm, our team provides expert guidance on Texas’s conservatorship laws, offering grandparents the tools they need to make their case in court. When Can Grandparents Pursue Custody? There are several scenarios in which grandparents may find themselves stepping up to care for their grandchildren. The courts recognize this and provide opportunities for grandparents to seek custody, but the conditions for such cases are strictly outlined.

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Understanding Alimony and Spousal Support in Texas Divorce Cases

Understanding Alimony and Spousal Support in Texas Divorce Cases

September 19, 2024

Divorce is a life-altering process that brings emotional and financial challenges, especially when spouses face the prospect of dividing assets and considering long-term financial support. One of the most significant concerns for divorcing couples in Texas is alimony or spousal support. For the spouse who earns less or has been financially dependent during the marriage, spousal support can provide a crucial safety net as they transition into post-divorce life. However, Texas has specific rules and restrictions when it comes to spousal support, which can be quite different from those in other states. It’s essential for individuals going through a divorce to understand how Texas courts handle alimony to ensure they know their rights and obligations. Whether you’re the spouse potentially paying or receiving support, this guide will help you navigate the legal complexities surrounding alimony in Texas. At The Renken Law Firm, our family law attorneys in Houston are well-versed in the state’s spousal support laws and can help you understand how they may apply in your case. In this post, we’ll explore the various types of alimony available, how courts determine eligibility, and how an experienced attorney can help you secure a fair outcome. 1. What is Alimony in Texas?  Alimony, also known as spousal support, is a legal obligation for one spouse to provide financial assistance to the other following a divorce. In Texas, alimony is not automatically granted, and the state imposes stricter limits compared to other parts of the U.S. The main objective is to help the lower-earning spouse maintain a reasonable standard of living during the transition from married life to single life. Many people are surprised to learn that Texas law draws a distinction between contractual alimony and spousal maintenance. Texas law typically aims to minimize the duration of spousal support, reflecting the principle

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What is the Best Divorce Option for Me

What is the Best Divorce Option for Me?

August 28, 2024

Understanding Your Divorce Options Divorce is a significant and often emotional decision, and choosing the right approach is crucial to ensure the process is as smooth and stress-free as possible. In Texas, couples have several options when it comes to divorce, each tailored to different circumstances and needs. The Renken Law Firm in Houston specializes in guiding clients through these choices, helping them navigate the complexities of divorce law while protecting their rights and interests. At The Renken Law Firm, we understand that no two divorces are alike. Whether you’re looking for a straightforward, uncontested divorce or need support in a more complex, contested case, our attorneys are dedicated to providing the guidance and representation you need. In this post, we’ll explore the various divorce options available in Texas, explain how our team assists clients through each process, and help you determine which option might be best for you. 1. Uncontested Divorce: An Amicable Solution An uncontested divorce is often the simplest and most amicable way to dissolve a marriage. In this type of divorce, both spouses agree on all major issues, including property division, child custody and support, and alimony. Because there is no disagreement on these matters, uncontested divorces tend to be faster, less expensive, and less stressful than other types of divorce. Uncontested divorces are ideal for couples who have maintained a level of cooperation and can communicate effectively, even as they part ways. This option works best when both parties are committed to working together to reach an agreement that is fair and mutually beneficial. At The Renken Law Firm, our attorneys provide invaluable assistance during the uncontested divorce process. We help clients ensure that all agreements are legally sound and comprehensive, covering every aspect of the divorce. Our goal is to facilitate a smooth and

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What is the Goal of Divorce Mediation

Top Attorney for Divorce Cases in Houston Area

August 21, 2024

When facing the emotional and legal complexities of divorce, choosing the right attorney is one of the most critical decisions you can make. A skilled divorce attorney can guide you through the process with expertise, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you achieve the best possible outcome. In the bustling city of Houston, where life moves quickly and the stakes are high, finding a top divorce attorney requires careful consideration. The Renken Law Firm stands out as a leader in this field, offering unparalleled service to those navigating the challenging waters of divorce. Their commitment to personalized attention and their deep understanding of both the legal and emotional aspects of divorce make them an invaluable ally during such a pivotal time. Whether dealing with complex financial matters or sensitive custody issues, The Renken Law Firm provides the steady, knowledgeable support needed to face the future with confidence. Understanding the Importance of a Top Divorce Attorney Divorce is more than just a legal separation; it is a process that affects every aspect of your life, from your financial stability to your relationship with your children. The attorney you choose will play a crucial role in shaping your future. A top divorce attorney will not only provide legal advice but also act as a strategic partner, helping you make informed decisions during this difficult time. Key Qualities of a Top Divorce Attorney: The Renken Law Firm: A Leader in Divorce Law Located in the heart of Houston, The Renken Law Firm has established itself as a top choice for individuals seeking expert legal representation in divorce cases. With a reputation for excellence, the firm offers a unique combination of legal acumen, personalized service, and a deep commitment to client success. Why Choose The Renken Law Firm? What to Expect When

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10 Reasons You Should Consider Mediation for Divorce in Houston

10 Reasons You Should Consider Mediation for Divorce in Houston

August 14, 2024

Divorce is undoubtedly one of the most challenging life events anyone can go through. The process can be emotionally draining, time-consuming, and financially taxing. While many couples default to litigation as the go-to method for divorce, there is an alternative that can offer numerous benefits: mediation. Mediation provides a more amicable, efficient, and cost-effective way to settle disputes and reach a divorce agreement. Especially in a bustling city like Houston, where life is fast-paced and complex, mediation offers a tailored approach to divorce that respects the needs and schedules of both parties involved. If you are contemplating divorce, here are ten compelling reasons why you should consider mediation as your preferred method of resolving the end of your marriage. 1. Cost-Effectiveness One of the most significant advantages of mediation over traditional divorce litigation is the cost. Divorce litigation can quickly become expensive, with attorney fees, court costs, and other expenses piling up. In contrast, mediation is generally much more affordable. The process involves fewer formal procedures and often requires fewer billable hours from attorneys, which translates to lower costs overall. Mediation typically involves a neutral mediator who works with both parties to facilitate discussions and help them reach a mutually agreeable solution. This reduces the need for prolonged legal battles, which can be financially draining. For those who are concerned about the financial implications of divorce, mediation offers a more budget-friendly option. 2. Faster Resolution Divorce litigation can be notoriously slow, often taking months or even years to reach a conclusion. The court system is overloaded with cases, and the complexity of legal procedures can lead to significant delays. Mediation, on the other hand, tends to be much quicker. In mediation, the parties involved set the pace. Since there are no formal court schedules to adhere to, mediation sessions can

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What Is a Standard Possession Order in Divorce

What Is a Standard Possession Order in Divorce?

August 8, 2024

Divorce is a challenging and emotionally charged process, especially when children are involved. In Texas, one of the critical aspects of divorce involving children is determining custody and visitation rights. The Standard Possession Order (SPO) is a legal framework that outlines the visitation schedule for the non-custodial parent. It is crucial for both parents to understand what an SPO entails and how it affects their family dynamics. In this blog post, we will explore the concept of a Standard Possession Order, its implications, and how The Renken Law Firm’s experienced Houston divorce attorneys can assist you in navigating this complex legal terrain. Understanding the Standard Possession Order What is a Standard Possession Order? A Standard Possession Order is a court-ordered schedule that outlines the visitation rights of the non-custodial parent. It is designed to ensure that both parents have a fair amount of time with their children post-divorce. In Texas, the SPO is considered the default visitation schedule and is presumed to be in the best interest of the child unless evidence is presented to the contrary. The Texas Family Code outlines the specifics of an SPO, which applies to children three years of age and older. For children under three, the court may create a customized possession schedule that gradually leads to an SPO as the child grows. Key Features of a Standard Possession Order The Standard Possession Order typically includes: Customizing the Standard Possession Order While the SPO is the default arrangement, it is not one-size-fits-all. The court recognizes that each family’s situation is unique, and modifications can be made to accommodate the specific needs of the children and parents involved. Factors such as the child’s age, the distance between the parents’ residences, and any special needs the child may have can influence the visitation schedule. The court

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Best Female Divorce Attorney in Houston Area

Best Female Divorce Attorney in Houston Area

August 1, 2024

When facing the challenging and often emotional journey of divorce, having a compassionate and skilled attorney by your side can make all the difference. In Houston, a city bustling with diversity and vibrant communities, The Renken Law Firm stands out as a beacon of support and legal expertise, especially for those seeking a female divorce attorney who understands the unique challenges women often face during divorce proceedings. In this blog post, we will explore the qualities that define the best female divorce attorneys, delve into the services offered by The Renken Law Firm, and explain why choosing a female attorney might be the right decision for your case. Whether you’re just beginning the process or are in the midst of complex negotiations, this guide aims to provide you with the insights needed to make an informed decision about your legal representation. Understanding the Role of a Divorce Attorney Before diving into the specifics of female divorce attorneys, it’s important to understand the critical role that any divorce attorney plays. Divorce attorneys are legal professionals who specialize in family law, particularly issues related to divorce, child custody, alimony, and property division. They guide clients through the legal process, ensuring their rights are protected and advocating for their best interests. Key Responsibilities of a Divorce Attorney: Why Choose a Female Divorce Attorney? Choosing a female divorce attorney can offer several unique benefits, particularly for women going through a divorce. While both male and female attorneys are capable and skilled, some clients find that a female attorney brings an additional level of empathy and understanding to their case. Here are a few reasons why a female divorce attorney might be the right choice for you: Empathy and Understanding Women often face unique challenges during divorce, such as concerns about financial security, child custody,

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Your family law case may be the most important legal issue you ever face in your life. It can also be the most emotionally and financially challenging life event you experience.

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Renken Law Firm knows how difficult and painful dealing with these issues can be. We will take your case, and all the turmoil that comes with it, very seriously. You can trust us to not only be relentless in our pursuit of the best possible solution for you, but we will also take into consideration how much this process is both emotionally and financially impacting you. Renken Law Firm can be relentless, but you can always trust us to listen.

© 2024 The Renken Law Firm. All rights reserved.

Parents are also obligated to provide health and dental insurance for their children in Texas.The court can order either parent to enroll a child on an existing health insurance policy but customarily orders the child support obligor to do so or to reimburse the cost of the health and dental care premium to the primary custodian of the child.While the terms alimony and spousal maintenance are often used interchangeably, they are very different things under Texas law.They both achieve the same goal during a divorce, however.They both allow one spouse to receive financial support from the other.Renken Law Firm understands the distinction between alimony and spousal maintenance.Our understanding of the difference between these two means of financial support allows us to pursue an outcome that best meets your needs.Along with her ability to aggressively litigate Family Law matters, Dawn Renken is a Licensed Mediator through ADR Services International Inc, since 2014. Traditionally, mediation has been shown to be an excellent option for couples seeking an amicable divorce who ultimately have compatible goals for property settlements and custody disputes.Mediation promotes a compromise that works well for both parties, while making it possible to avoid court appearances and additional attorney’s fees.What is Divorce Mediation?Divorce mediation is a private process in which a neutral third person (a mediator) helps divorcing couples reach a mutually satisfactory settlement of the issues in their case, including child support, custody and visitation, alimony, and property division.A mediator does not act as a judge, arbitrator, or counselor, but assists the spouses in reaching a voluntary agreement.Along with her ability to aggressively litigate Family Law matters, Dawn Renken is a Licensed Mediator through ADR Services International Inc, since 2014. Traditionally, mediation has been shown to be an excellent option for couples seeking an amicable divorce who ultimately have compatible goals for property settlements and custody disputes. Mediation promotes a compromise that works well for both parties, while making it possible to avoid court appearances and additional attorney’s feesDivorce mediation is an affordable and private divorce option, mediation also has a proven history for helping families resolve disputes without the need for a trial. Taking your case to trial typically will increase the amount of time, money, and stress involved in your divorce.While no divorce method is completely stress free, divorce mediation allows both parties to have their needs represented. The divorcing couple will be given the chance to work together to reach an amicable resolution in their case, instead of allowing a judge to have the final say.Dawn Renken, became a licensed mediator through ADR Services International Inc. in 2014. Since this time, Attorney Renken has been working as a Cypress divorce mediation expert with couples to help them work together to reach divorce agreements that are mutually beneficial for their long term needs.The role of the mediator is to simply ensure all important matters are discussed and dealt with, as well as ensure neither party is using bully tactics in order to get the other party to agree to the terms they desire for their divorce. Your divorce agreement is only finalized when both parties agree to the terms of the divorce and sign off on it. If you are unable to work together to reach an amicable divorce agreement, mediation will not be a viable method for divorce. If you and your spouse are actively looking to work through your divorce together, Renken Law Firm can help by offering affordable divorce mediation in Houston, TX.In addition to traditional divorce methods, we excel in providing the best divorce mediation services in Houston, TX. Divorce mediation offers a more cost-effective and private approach, allowing the divorcing parties to determine the final terms of their divorce. To explore this option further, we encourage you to contact our office and learn more about our mediation services.Renken Law Firm understands that many individuals hesitate to initiate the divorce process due to uncertainty and concerns about excessive legal fees. We assure you that our Houston, TX team is dedicated to your success and has a proven track record of achieving client satisfaction.We recognize the emotional toll that divorce takes on families, and we strive to make the process as smooth as possible. Whether your case involves mediated or contested divorce, our attorneys will provide unwavering support every step of the way until your divorce is finalized. Take the first steps toward filing for divorce in the state of Texas by scheduling a consultation with our legal team at Renken Law Firm today.Is Texas an At-Fault State?In the state of Texas, divorce proceedings do not require spouses to provide a specific reason or cause for seeking the divorce, making it a “no-fault” state. However, it is important to note that if one spouse is at fault for the breakdown of the marriage, it may be considered by the court when dividing property. This means that the at-fault party may be responsible for providing more to the other spouse. Although fault grounds are not mandatory, it is advisable for spouses to include them in their divorce petition.At Renken Law Firm, our mission is to advocate for families and help them make the best decisions for their unique circumstances. Our top priority is protecting the best interests of any children involved in the divorce. Our dedicated legal team is committed to achieving the best possible outcomes for you and your family. Whether you are contemplating filing for divorce or currently going through the process, contact Renken Law Firm for assistance. We will guide you through this challenging time and ensure that you consider all significant factors that may impact your finances or family dynamics. Reach out to us today to learn more about our comprehensive family law services and how we can support you.The Renken Law Firm has worked hard to earn a reputation for efficiently practicing diligent and focused legal services. During the course of our representation, you can expect expert legal advice in the areas of divorce, separation planning, custody disputes, child support cases, grandparents rights, prenuptial agreements, attorney general cases and enforcement actions.Receive prompt service and protect your rights by contacting us to schedule an appointment. In times of personal crisis we understand that you want answers. As your legal counsel, this firm will provide you with answers and options. Additionally, we will guide you through what you can expect during the process and help you to understand your options and rights as mandated by Texas Law. Our knowledge and experience has provided us with a strong base of strategies and methods to assist you to reach a successful resolution. Once retained, we invite you to demand and expect your case to be handled in an organized, timely, effective and cost-efficient manner. Step 1: Consult Contact Renken Law Firm to schedule your no obligation one hour consultation to evaluate your case. Step 2: Prepare You’ve never been through this. We understand that. We are here for you. Step 3: Negotiate Whether informal negotiation or mediation, you can trust Renken Law Firm’s decades of experience. Step 4: Litigate When negotiation fails, Renken Law Firm is prepared to fight for you at trial with experienced litigators. Your family law case may be the most important legal issue you ever face in your life. It can also be the most emotionally and financially challenging life event you experience. Renken Law Firm knows how difficult and painful dealing with these issues can be. We will take your case, and all the turmoil that comes with it, very seriously. You can trust us to not only be relentless in our pursuit of the best possible solution for you, but we will also take into consideration how much this process is both emotionally and financially impacting you. Renken Law Firm can be relentless, but you can always trust us to listen. © 2023 The Renken Law Firm. All rights reserved. Our comprehensive family law services include the resolution of divorces through litigation, divorce mediation or collaborative law, depending on the specific details of your case. We can take on all matters related to Divorce Practice or dissolution of a common law marriage, including: We are committed to aggressively and efficiently advocating for your rights . We customize our representation to the needs of your case. Throughout the process, we will keep you involved. We will provide honest information about the progress of your case and strive to achieve the best possible outcome. Enforcing Texas Orders Renken Law Firm, PLLC represent clients seeking to enforce the terms of a divorce decree or custody order. You may need to seek to enforce an order when the other parent has failed to pay their court ordered child support or if you have been denied visitation with your child. We have extensive experience with both seeking relief for these types of issues and also defending against these types of cases. Having an experienced lawyer who has handled both sides of the issue provides you a unique attorney who can reasonably anticipate what the other side may attempt to do. If the non-custodial parent refuses to pay court ordered child support or you have been denied visitation, contact us. If you have been accused of nonpayment or denying the opposing party visitation, a possible contempt outcome is jail time. Do not go to court alone, contact Renken Law Firm, PLLC. Enforcement for Delinquent Child Support Child support arrearages not only can lead to wage garnishment, property liens and loss of tax refunds, they can also result in loss of your license to drive, fish, hunt, sell real estate, teach or practice medicine. Whether your problem involves modification or enforcement of family law rights, our lawyers can advise and represent you. Enforcement / Contempt of Court Actions When a parent refuses to honor visitation orders, fails to pay child support or fails to comply with other court orders, the parent is in contempt of court. In most circumstances, it is important that a child is supported by and has meaningful relationships with both parents. That is why it is so important to follow custody, visitation and support arrangements. Failure to do so can jeopardize the child’s well being. If a parent willfully and recklessly avoided complying with orders when it was feasible to do so, the parent may be charged criminally with contempt and could face potential jail time, fines and other consequences. Our attorneys help clients pursue court orders of enforcement. We also defend against actions where enforcement or contempt cases are brought against you unjustly or for spite. Child Support Enforcement Actions If you are facing a child support enforcement action initiated by the Attorney General, Renken Law Firm, PLLC can answer the complaint and try to transfer your case to family court, where your options for a realistic payment plan will be somewhat broader. If you are the parent trying to enforce the terms of a divorce or paternity child support order, we can help ensure that your right to payment is brought current as quickly as possible.

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