Family Law Attorney in St. Paul

Clarence Patterson III is the esteemed founder of the Law Offices of Clarence Patterson III, dedicated to "Protecting Rights & Improving Lives." Beyond navigating the intricacies of the law, the essence of Mr. Patterson's commendable success lies in his unyielding drive to secure outcomes that align with his client's aspirations and needs. He firmly believes that no case is too minor or insignificant. This philosophy propels him to stand shoulder to shoulder with his clients, guiding them with unwavering support throughout their legal journey. Since establishing his practice in 2018, Clarence has gained profound Family Law experience. 

‍

If you need assistance with family legal matters, contact The Law Offices of Clarence Patterson. When working with our law firm, you will have an experienced attorney who is easily accessible, patient, tech-savvy, and efficient so that you can save on attorney costs. We offer free consultations to help you determine what your next steps need to be.

No matter the family law challenges you face, be it divorce, separation, or complexities related to child custody and support, The Law Offices of Clarence Patterson III stands by you, providing understanding and direction during these trying moments. 

‍

Here are the Family Law case types we can help you with:

‍

• Adoption: Minnesota recognizes several types of adoptions, including agency, direct placement, international, and stepparent adoption. The state's legal requirements include home studies, post-placement assessments, and specific consent rules. Navigating the adoption process requires a keen understanding of Minnesota's nuanced laws. An experienced family law attorney can ensure all paperwork is correctly filed, represents adoptive parents in court, manages communication between biological and adoptive parents, and ensures the rights of all parties are upheld, streamlining an emotionally charged process.

‍

• Child Custody: Minnesota law bases custody decisions on the child's best interests, with 12 specific best-interest factors outlined in statutes. Custody battles can be complex and emotionally draining. A family law attorney can help interpret the 12 best-interest factors of Minnesota for their client's advantage, gather supporting evidence, represent the parent in court, negotiate with the opposing party, and advocate tirelessly for the child's best interests.

‍

• Child Support: Minnesota employs a formula considering both parents' incomes, potential income, and the amount of time the child spends with each parent. Calculating child support demands precision and a thorough understanding of Minnesota's guidelines. Attorneys ensure accurate income reporting, advocate for fair support amounts based on state formulas, and can petition for adjustments or enforcement as financial situations change.

‍

• Father's Rights & Mother's Rights: Both parents are entitled to equal rights concerning their children unless proven otherwise. An attorney champions parents' rights, ensuring they're granted fair parenting time and decision-making roles. They'll challenge biases, push back against unfair allegations, and ensure equitable treatment, especially in cases where one parent feels marginalized.

‍

• Paternity: Establishing paternity in Minnesota can be voluntary (using a Recognition of Parentage form) or through a court order. An attorney facilitates the Recognition of Parentage form or guides clients through court-ordered processes, ensuring their rights are acknowledged, and responsibilities understood once paternity is confirmed.

‍

• Antenuptial & Postnuptial Agreements: In Minnesota, antenuptial agreements (prenups) govern asset division during life events like divorce. Created either pre- or post-marriage, antenuptial agreements demand full asset disclosure and legal counsel for both parties. Postnuptial agreements, while similar, require separate attorneys for each party and may be voided if divorce or separation occurs within two years of signing. Minnesota lawyers craft and review these contracts to ensure compliance and clarity in consideration of future implications and safeguarding assets. Crafting a watertight agreement requires extensive experience. Attorneys draft and review these contracts, ensuring they align with Minnesota's enforceability criteria. They also counsel clients on potential implications, protecting assets, and preventing future misunderstandings.

‍

• Restraining Orders: In Minnesota, Orders for Protection (OFP) are used for family or domestic situations, while Harassment Restraining Orders (HRO) are broader. Attorneys help clients choose the correct path, guiding them through the application process, representing them in hearings, and ensuring their safety or defending against unjust accusations.

‍

• Same-Sex Family Law matters: Since the legalization of same-sex marriage in Minnesota in 2013, same-sex couples have many of the same rights as opposite-sex couples. However, nuances like parental rights in the absence of biological ties can arise. An experienced attorney can help navigate these intricacies, ensuring couples and families receive the same rights as their opposite-sex counterparts and advocating for their unique needs in court.

‍

For anyone navigating the complexities of Family Law in Minnesota, it's crucial to have an attorney who understands the intricacies of the state's legal system, ensuring all parties involved receive the protection and representation they deserve.

At the Law Office of Clarence Patterson III, our team is dedicated to helping and representing you. You will have an experienced attorney who is easily accessible, patient, tech-savvy and efficient so that you can save on attorney costs.

‍

Our firm primarily serves the areas of Ramsey County, Washington County, Hennepin County, Dakota County and other areas around Minnesota. If you are in need of an experienced family law attorney in Minnesota, please contact us today to schedule your free case evaluation.