Alabaster Divorce Lawyers

Going through an Alabama divorce is almost always a challenge. Divorce is notorious for being a grueling process that can bring a ton of stress.  The good news is that you do not have to take on the legal process alone. At The Harris Firm, LLC, our Alabaster divorce lawyer is committed to putting the rights and interests of clients first.

We are devoted to finding amicable, cost-effective solutions for our clients. If you have any specific questions or concerns about your divorce, please do not hesitate to contact our Alabaster, AL divorce lawyer for a confidential, no obligation initial consultation.

Broadly speaking, divorce cases in Alabaster will be split into the following two categories:

• Uncontested Divorce: Most divorce are uncontested divorces. An uncontested divorce is where you reach an agreement with your spouse and both of you sign the documents prior to the divorce being filed. In other words, it is a divorce that is fully settled outside of court. There is no need for litigation as the parties are able to reach a mutually agreeable solution.
• Contested Divorce: Any other way you file is called a contested divorce. This is where our divorce lawyer in Alabaster files your divorce without any agreement being reached and has your spouse served with the complaint. Although less common, more time-consuming, and more expensive, divorce litigation may be required in some cases. 

To get an online divorce in Alabaster or elsewhere in Shelby County, you and your spouse must be in agreement. An uncontested divorce is the best option for the majority of couples in Alabama.

A divorce in Alabaster will be brought in a court in Shelby County. Notably, Alabama law applies to the case. There are some important points to know about divorce in our state:

• Residency Requirement: Alabama law (Ala. Code § 30-2-5) mandates that at least one spouse must reside in the state for six months before initiating a divorce proceeding. Indeed, establishing residency is crucial for the court to have jurisdiction over your divorce case.
• No Fault (Most Divorces): You do not have to prove “fault” on the part of your spouse to get a divorce in Chelsea or Alabaster. In Alabama, couples can file for a no-fault divorce. Most divorces—and virtually all uncontested divorces—are no-fault divorces.
• Equitable Property Division: Alabama’s approach to dividing marital property is based on equitable distribution. The core aim is a fair—though not always equal—division of assets. Non-marital property (separate property) is not subject to asset divorce in Alabama.
• Best Interests (Custody/Visitation): When deciding on custody matters, Alabama courts use the “best interests of the child” standard to guide their decisions (Ala. Code § 30-3-152). Factors influencing custody decisions include the child’s emotional and physical needs, each parent’s caregiver ability, the stability of the home environment, and any history of abuse.

To finalize your divorce, you will need to address a wide range of family law issues. At The Harris Firm, LLC, we know that our role extends far beyond completing some paperwork. We are dedicated to guiding you through the divorce process in a manner that is focused on protecting your rights, limiting conflict, and setting you up for a positive future. While we are prepared to litigate, we know that resolving issues outside of court often serves divorcing couples better. Our Alabaster divorce attorney has extensive experience with:

• Property division;
• Spousal support (alimony);
• Child custody and child visitation; and
• Child support.

Even if you are fully confident that a divorce is the right decision for your future, it is still normal to be stressed out and even overwhelmed by the process. Ending a marriage is hard. Our founder Steven A. Harris is an experienced Shelby County divorce lawyer. We are here to help you finalize your divorce in the most effective manner possible. Our Alabaster divorce lawyer will:

• Listen to what you have to say and answer your family law questions;
• Help you gather relevant information and complete the divorce paperwork;
• Advocate for you in any settlement negotiations with your spouse; and
• Develop a comprehensive strategy designed to ensure your rights are protected.

Where Do You File for Divorce?

At the county level. In Alabama, you should file for divorce in the circuit court of the county where you live and/or where your spouse lives. For example, if you are getting a divorce in Alabaster, you can and should file for divorce in a court in Shelby County. As long as one spouse has been an Alabama resident for a minimum of six months, you can file for divorce in the state.

Is Fault an Issue in a Divorce in Alabama?

It can be. However, most divorce cases in Alabama are finalized on no-fault grounds. Our state allows for both no-fault divorces (irreconcilable differences) and fault-based divorces, where reasons such as adultery, abandonment, or abuse can affect alimony, property division, and child custody. For most couples, an uncontested, no-fault divorce is the best option.

Is Flat Fee Divorce Representation an Option for My Uncontested Divorce Case?

Yes. Flat fee divorce representation is particularly well-suited for uncontested divorce cases in Alabama. At The Harris Firm, LLC, we provide affordable flat fee services for uncontested divorces in Alabaster. It is a great option to save money on your divorce costs.

At The Harris Firm, LLC, our Alabaster divorce lawyer helps people through some of the most difficult times of their lives. Call us at (205) 201-1789 or connect with us online to arrange a strictly confidential initial appointment. Our firm handles uncontested and contested divorces in Alabaster and throughout Shelby County.