It is important that all issues related to the divorce are addressed. For example, property distribution and alimony and post-separation support are crucial parts of the divorce process which must be discussed throughout the case.

Issues involving children are best addressed as soon as possible, as their well-being should be your number-one priority. I strive to help clients keep their children's best interests in mind when determining child custody and visitation rights.

Like most states, North Carolina has established child support guidelines to assist the Court in deciding the amount of child support that a parent is to receive from the other parent. In order to understand these child support statutes and how they affect the amount of child support you pay or receive, turn to me, Bonnie Rossi, Attorney at Law. I have significant experience handling child support issues for my family law clients.

The child support guidelines consist of a formula created by the state legislature which bases the amount of child support awarded on the combined gross income of the parents. The guidelines also take into consideration other expenses that the children incur, such as work-related day care, health care, and extraordinary expenses, such as braces. There are other factors that are considered in calculating child support, such as the amount of overnights each parent has custody. However, the main focus on child support should be based on the children's reasonable needs. I help clients ensure that the correct amounts are entered into that formula, so that the proper child support payments are ordered.

Child custody and visitation issues are among the most difficult to address, as each parent wants to maintain his or her involvement in the children's lives without having to give up any custody time. I have found that most parents want to have physical custody of the children at least 50 percent of the time. If the parents have a good relationship and they truly co-parent, then a 50/50 physical custody arrangement might be in the best interests of the children. To understand how the custody process works, turn to me, Bonnie Rossi, Attorney at Law. I have handled many child custody and visitation cases throughout the course of my career and can help educate you on the aspects of your case that will affect your quest for a custody arrangement.

I understand that this is not always a pleasant process for my clients, as we may have to look at where the other parent may be lacking in order to discover grounds for seeking primary physical custody. I am sensitive to the emotional issues that go along with custody cases and treat my clients with the dignity, compassion, and respect that they deserve.

There are a variety of forms of custody. The "joint custody" model is not often utilized, due to the divorcing couple’s inability to work together and conflicting views on the best interests of the child or children. However, if both parents are committed to the children, then a judge may grant joint physical custody, along with joint legal custody. I can help you understand the difference between legal and physical custody and how they apply to your case.

When engaging in litigation to resolve custody and visitation matters, you are placing the decision in the hands of a judge that may not know much about your unique situation. This can also be an expensive and altogether time-consuming process. By utilizing a method of alternative dispute resolution, such as mediation or a 4-way settlement conference, you can maintain control of any outcome while working cooperatively with the other party to ensure the continued well-being of your children. Though I do encourage parents to avoid litigation wherever possible, I am nevertheless dedicated to standing up for my clients to the fullest extent of the law and will aggressively advocate for them in court if necessary.

Other than issues involving children, alimony and post-separation support are two of the most contentious issues of any divorce or separation. To understand your rights in these matters, please turn to me, Bonni Rossi, Attorney at Law. I am able to effectively explain the law and your options, as well as address any concerns or fears that you may have.

No matter how much the ex-spouse or separated spouse makes, the bottom line is that the supporting spouse is most likely going to have to pay some amount of support based on his or her disposable net income. This is dependent, of course, upon the ability of the recipient spouse to prove that he or she is in actual need of the support.

The two different types of spousal support that exist in North Carolina are listed and described below. Contact me to further discuss either of these issues.

Following legal separation, post-separation support may be ordered by the court. This is basically temporary spousal support that must be paid until permanent alimony is ordered following the entry of a final divorce decree.

Permanent alimony is spousal support ordered by the court to be paid to the dependent spouse. This is either paid in a lump sum or periodically over a certain amount of time. The period of time over which alimony is paid can either be specified or indefinite. Though it is labeled as "permanent," alimony payments do not necessarily continue forever, as it is under the court's discretion to set the time period for the payment of permanent alimony. A paying spouse may also be able to petition the court for a reduction in the amount of alimony paid following a substantial change in their own circumstances, or those of the recipient spouse.

Contact an alimony lawyer that strives to help you understand your right to alimony or your obligation to pay. I, Bonnie Rossi, Attorney at Law, offer clients a reduced rate initial consultation, so we can discuss your specific situation and needs. I also offer flexible appointment times. Please call (336) 509-0183.

Greensboro, NC 27401-2649

Phone: (336) 509-0183

Facsimile: (336) 282-3105

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