Read Our FAQs About Family Law, Estate Planning, and More

A divorce attorney manages all aspects of divorce proceedings, including property division, spousal support, child custody arrangements, and the completion of necessary legal documentation. Maureen A. McCready Attorney at Law provides comprehensive representation throughout the entire divorce process.  

Legal separation allows couples to live apart while remaining legally married, often addressing issues like child custody and financial support without dissolving the marriage. Divorce legally terminates the marriage entirely. Both options require proper legal documentation and court procedures.  

The duration of divorce proceedings varies depending on the complexity of the case, whether it is contested or uncontested, and court scheduling. Simple uncontested divorces may be completed in a few months, while complex cases involving significant assets or custody disputes can take considerably longer.  

Courts prioritize the child's well-being when making custody determinations. Factors include each parent's ability to provide a stable environment, the child's relationship with each parent, work schedules, living arrangements, and the child's preferences if they are of sufficient age and maturity.  

Yes, child custody arrangements can be modified when there has been a substantial change in circumstances affecting the child's well-being. Maureen A. McCready Attorney at Law is a child custody lawyer who can help petition the court for modifications when necessary.  

A comprehensive estate plan typically includes a will, power of attorney documents, healthcare directives, and potentially trusts depending on your specific needs. Maureen A. McCready Attorney at Law is an estate planning lawyer who can help determine which documents are appropriate for your situation.  

Probate is generally required when someone passes away owning assets solely in their name that exceed certain value thresholds. Maureen A. McCready Attorney at Law is a probate attorney, and can guide executors through the probate process, which involves validating the will, paying debts, and distributing assets to beneficiaries.  

Estate planning documents should be reviewed and potentially updated every three to five years, or after major life events such as marriage, divorce, birth of children, significant changes in assets, or relocation to a different state.  

Prenuptial agreements typically address property division, spousal support, debt responsibility, and inheritance rights. These agreements help couples clarify financial expectations and protect individual assets entering the marriage.  

Prenuptial agreements should be completed well in advance of the wedding date to ensure that both parties have adequate time to review the terms and seek independent legal counsel if desired. It is recommended to begin this process at least two to three months before the wedding.  

Yes, mediation can be an effective alternative to traditional litigation for many family law matters. Maureen A. McCready Attorney at Law is a mediation lawyer who can help facilitate discussions between parties to reach mutually acceptable agreements while avoiding the time and expense of court proceedings.  

At Maureen A. McCready Attorney at Law, we serve Boston, Buffalo, Clarence, East Aurora, Elma, Hamburg, Lancaster, Marilla, Olean, Orchard Park, West Seneca, and the surrounding areas of Western New York.