12 Mistakes to Avoid When Divorcing After 20+ Years
Hoover Kacyon
September 14, 2023
Divorce disrupts your life in many ways. When you’ve been married many years, transitioning to a single-income household can deplete your savings, too. Being close to retirement means you must take steps to avoid making your life harder in the case of a dissolving union.
Assets Inventory
One partner is usually more versed in the finances than the other. Make sure you have a good understanding of bank accounts, retirement accounts, investments, life insurance, and any other assets you hold.
Keeping House
Keeping your home may seem less disruptive, but consider all the angles first. You need to be able to cover the mortgage costs plus maintenance on the property.
Know Debts
Getting a credit report can help you discover any joint payment responsibilities you may be liable for half of when you split. The report ensures you have each one accounted for without surprises during the divorce.
Tax Consequences
Remember that every decision you make during divorce proceedings has tax implications. Having that in the forefront of your mind will help dictate your decisions.
Health Insurance
If you’re on your soon-to-be ex’s health insurance, look into your options now. Another cost to ensure you can cover for yourself. Through an employer, COBRA for up to 36 months, or the Affordable Care Act, put that on your list to ensure you handle it.
Retirement Funds
Placing your portion of a retirement fund into an IRA is subject to 10% tax. Establishing a QDRO (qualified domestic relation order) can help that process, allowing a one-time withdrawal without the standard tax.
Supporting Others
Others often rely on you, whether friends, grown children, or other family members. Watch your income and protect your future as a priority so you know when you have the means to help others.
Hiding Assets
The temptation to hide assets so it looks like you have less than you do may be high, but the legal troubles this could cause would not be worth the attempt. The settlement for your spouse could increase in assets, you could receive a contempt-of-court ruling, or you could face perjury or fraud charges.
Underestimating Expenses
You may need to create or adjust your budget now that you will no longer have two incomes to pay your bills. Factor all that in so you don’t find yourself in a bind when payments are due.
Divorce Advisors
The cost of the advisors comes from the settlement you receive, so bear that in mind. Stay on top of what they are spending for you so you aren’t taken by surprise as they charge by the hour each time you consult their expertise.
Future Pension
Any part of a pension earned during a marriage is part of the assets. You can receive a share of future benefits, present or offset value, and any combination of those two may be factored into the divorce.
Professional Team
The minimum you should have is a divorce lawyer, but you are entitled to an entire team of professionals to help you through your dissolution. Check credentials and do your due diligence before hiring anyone so you have the highest quality of service possible.
Hiring a law firm familiar with divorce proceedings and splitting of property will significantly impact how you are protected. No matter how complicated or complex your divorce might be, the Akron and Cuyahoga Falls Hoover Kaycon, LLC Attorneys at Law are here to answer your questions and help you through the process. We deliver the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals while also providing excellent customer service. Call us at 330-922-4491 or contact us online to make an appointment.
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For many families, grandparents play an essential role in their grandchildren’s lives. They provide love, guidance, and stability, often stepping in to help raise or care for children. But after a divorce, separation, or other family disruption, grandparents may find themselves cut off from spending time with their grandchildren. This can be heartbreaking for both the grandparent and the child. Ohio Law on Grandparent Visitation Ohio is one of the states that recognizes grandparents’ rights. Under Ohio Revised Code 3109.051 , grandparents can request visitation in certain situations, such as: When the child’s parents divorce or separate When one parent passes away When a child is born to an unmarried mother The court will review whether visitation is in the child’s best interests. Factors may include the child’s relationship with the grandparent, the wishes of the child and parents, the child’s adjustment to home and school, and the health of everyone involved. Custody and Temporary Care In some cases, grandparents may seek temporary custody or even full custody of a grandchild. Temporary rights may be obtained through a power of attorney (if both parents consent) or a caretaker authorization affidavit (if parents cannot be located). Courts may grant full custody if parents are found “unfit” due to issues such as abuse, neglect, or substance abuse. These cases are complex, and strong legal representation is essential. Enforcing Court-Ordered Visitation If a court has granted visitation but parents refuse to comply, they can be held in contempt of court. This may result in fines, attorney’s fees, or even jail time for noncompliance. Having an experienced attorney ensures your rights—and your relationship with your grandchild—are protected. How We Can Help At Hoover Kacyon, LLC, our family law attorneys understand how important the bond between grandparents and grandchildren can be. We are committed to helping you secure the visitation or custody rights that serve your grandchild’s best interests. We deliver the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals, while also providing excellent customer service. Call us at 330-922-4491 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.
In Ohio, child custody and visitation orders are legally binding. Once a judge signs off, both parents are expected to follow the terms—regardless of personal disagreements. Failing to comply isn’t just a parenting issue; it’s a legal one, and it can lead to serious consequences, including fines, reduced parenting time, or even jail time in severe cases. Why Violations Matter Custody and visitation orders are crafted with one goal in mind: the child’s best interest. When a parent repeatedly ignores these orders—by missing scheduled exchanges, denying visitation, or refusing communication—it can disrupt the child’s routine and damage their emotional well-being. Ohio courts take these matters seriously to protect children from unnecessary stress and instability. What You Can Do If the Other Parent Violates the Order If you’re dealing with repeated violations, start by documenting everything. Keep detailed records of missed visits, late drop-offs, or communication attempts. This documentation becomes essential if you need to take the issue to court. When informal communication fails, you can file a motion for contempt in family court. The judge will review your evidence, and if they find the other parent in violation, they may impose consequences such as make-up parenting time, legal fees, or more restrictive visitation terms. In some cases, you may need to request a modification to the custody agreement, especially if the violations are ongoing or your child’s safety is at risk. Modifications are evaluated based on whether the change serves the child’s best interests. Preventing Future Disputes While conflict may arise, there are steps you can take to prevent future disputes: maintain clear written communication, follow the order exactly, and use shared calendars to avoid misunderstandings. Mediation can also help resolve disagreements before they escalate. Legal Help Is Key Enforcing or modifying custody orders can be overwhelming—but you don’t have to do it alone. We deliver the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals, while also providing excellent customer service. Call us at 330-922-4491 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.
Whether you’re married, unmarried, or navigating a divorce, protecting your relationship with your child is one of the most important—and emotional—parts of parenthood. At Hoover Kacyon, we work with fathers throughout Ohio who seek clarity, confidence, and a clear path forward regarding their parental rights. Married Fathers: Equal Rights Under Ohio Law If you're married to your child's mother, Ohio law recognizes both parents as having equal rights. During a divorce or legal separation , courts evaluate custody based on the best interest of the child , not the gender of the parent. Ohio Revised Code §3109.03 confirms that mothers and fathers stand on equal footing when determining custody, parenting time, and decision-making responsibilities. However, equal rights don’t always mean equal outcomes, which is why having experienced legal representation can be crucial. Unmarried Fathers: Establishing Paternity Is Essential If you are not married to your child’s mother, you do not automatically have parental rights in Ohio. Before you can request custody or parenting time, you must legally establish paternity. You can do this in several ways: Acknowledgment of Paternity Affidavit: This is the simplest route, often signed at the hospital after birth by both parents. Administrative Order through CSEA: If paternity is uncertain or contested, Ohio’s Child Support Enforcement Agency can order genetic testing and issue a determination. Court Order: In some cases, you must establish paternity through the juvenile or domestic relations court. Once paternity is confirmed, you are legally recognized as the child’s father and can petition for shared parenting or custody—again, based on what serves the child's best interests. Protecting Your Role as a Father Navigating custody as a father can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re concerned the system may favor the mother. The truth is, Ohio courts are focused on creating parenting plans that serve the child, not on defaulting to either parent. At Hoover Kacyon, we stand with fathers who want to be present, involved, and valued in their children's lives. If you have questions about your rights or need support in a custody or paternity matter, contact our experienced family law team today. We deliver the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals, while also providing excellent customer service. Call us at 330-922-4491 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.
Dividing property during divorce is rarely simple, and when it involves stocks, retirement accounts, or other investments, the process can quickly become even more complex . At Hoover Kacyon, we understand how stressful it can be to untangle financial assets during an emotionally challenging time. Our goal is to guide clients through these challenges with clarity, precision, and compassion. Marital vs. Separate Property in Ohio Ohio follows equitable distribution laws, which means marital assets are divided fairly, though not always equally. Stocks, mutual funds, and other investments acquired during the marriage are typically considered marital property, regardless of which spouse’s name is on the account. However, assets owned before the marriage or acquired via inheritance or gift are generally treated as separate property and may not be subject to division. Correctly identifying what qualifies as marital versus separate is the first step to a fair outcome. Valuing and Dividing Investment Accounts Once marital assets are identified, the next step is determining their value. This process can be especially tricky for fluctuating assets like stocks or stock options. In many cases, financial professionals are brought in to assess the value of these accounts at the time of divorce. From there, investments may be split directly or offset with other assets, such as cash, retirement funds, or real estate. If it’s impractical to divide certain accounts, one spouse may retain the investment while the other receives a comparable asset. Handling Retirement Accounts and Stock Options Retirement accounts such as 401(k)s, IRAs, and pensions are often among the most significant marital assets. In Ohio, these are commonly divided using a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO), which allows for tax-free transfer of funds to the non-owning spouse. Stock options can be even more complex due to vesting schedules and potential future value. In such cases, timing, valuation methods, and division strategies require experienced legal and financial insight. Why Legal Guidance Matters If you’re divorcing in Ohio and dealing with significant investments, having skilled legal representation is critical. At Hoover Kacyon, we’re here to protect your financial future and ensure a fair division of all assets, no matter how complex. We deliver the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals while also providing excellent customer service. Call us at 330-922-4491 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.
Since the 2015 Supreme Court ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges, same-sex couples in Ohio have gained full marriage equality, granting them the same legal recognition and protections as opposite-sex couples. While this was a historic win, navigating the nuances of family law can still be complex, especially as it relates to parenting, property, and legal planning. Marriage and Family Law Protections Married same-sex couples in Ohio enjoy key rights, including joint tax filing, inheritance without a will, and medical decision-making authority for a spouse. These protections also extend to family law matters, such as child custody and spousal support. In custody cases, Ohio courts prioritize the child’s best interests, allowing both partners to seek shared custody or visitation rights, provided the court recognizes them as legal parents. Adoption laws in Ohio support joint adoption, stepparent adoption, and second-parent adoption—critical steps for couples who wish to ensure both parents have equal legal standing in their child’s life. Financial and Estate Planning Marriage grants same-sex couples access to financial benefits such as Social Security survivor benefits, spousal health insurance, and equitable division of marital property during divorce. However, couples must establish clear estate plans, including wills, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives, to avoid future legal complications and ensure their wishes are honored. Protection Against Discrimination Although federal laws prohibit discrimination in employment and housing, Ohio lacks comprehensive protections for same-sex couples in public accommodations. Staying informed about legal rights and seeking advice when issues arise is key to avoiding discrimination and ensuring equal treatment. Why Legal Guidance Matters While legal advancements have paved the way for more equal treatment, same-sex couples can still face challenges in areas like parental rights or estate disputes. Consulting with a knowledgeable family law attorney can help proactively protect your rights and provide peace of mind. At Hoover Kacyon, our team is committed to supporting all families with clarity and compassion. If you have questions about your legal rights as a same-sex couple in northeastern Ohio, we’re here to help you navigate every step of the process. We deliver the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals while also providing excellent customer service. Call us at 330-922-4491 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.
Adopting a child is a life-changing decision that is both exciting and complex. While adoption success rates remain high, the process can be challenging, especially for first-time adoptive parents. At Hoover Kacyon, we help Ohio families navigate the adoption process with confidence by avoiding common pitfalls that can delay or even derail it. 1. Trying to Navigate the Process Without Legal Support Adoption involves a maze of paperwork, deadlines, and legal requirements. One of the biggest mistakes families make is attempting to handle it all alone. An experienced Ohio adoption attorney can ensure that every step is completed accurately and legally. From reviewing agreements to guiding you through court proceedings, legal guidance can save time, stress, and potential setbacks. 2. Overlooking the Role of Birth Parents Regardless of the type of adoption—whether private, agency, or open—respecting the birth parents is essential. In open adoptions, where communication between adoptive and birth families is more common, maintaining a respectful and transparent relationship benefits everyone, especially the child. Compassion and understanding can go a long way in creating a smooth transition for all involved. 3. Ignoring Adoption Regulations and Updates Adoption laws are continually evolving to protect children and families. In Ohio, rules regarding advertising for adoption, social media usage, and financial transactions are taken seriously. Failing to follow proper procedures can lead to legal issues or the denial of your adoption petition. Always consult with your adoption professional or attorney before making public posts or agreements. 4. Skipping the Research Every adoption is different. Costs, wait times, and legal requirements can vary significantly based on the circumstances. Doing your homework—about the agency, the process, and even travel requirements—can prevent delays or misunderstandings. Knowledge is power, especially when supported by trusted legal counsel. 5. Falling for Adoption Scams Sadly, scams still target hopeful adoptive parents. Be wary of anyone requesting large payments in advance or promising a quick match. A qualified Ohio adoption lawyer can help you vet agencies, review contracts, and ensure your adoption follows all legal standards. Ready to Start the Journey? At Hoover Kacyon, our adoption attorneys are here to guide you through every step, from the initial consultation to finalization. If you're considering adoption in 2025, contact our team today to learn how we can help you build your family with confidence and peace of mind. We deliver the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals, while also providing excellent customer service. Call us at 330-922-4491 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.
Meeting with an attorney for the first time—often called an initial consultation—is a key step in addressing your legal issue. Whether you're dealing with family matters, criminal charges, or civil disputes, this first meeting helps both you and the attorney determine if you're a good fit to work together. Even if you decide not to hire that lawyer, the consultation can still offer valuable insight and direction. To make the most of this appointment, preparation is essential. Here are a few ways to ensure your consultation is productive and efficient: 1. Write Down Your Questions Before your meeting, jot down any questions or concerns you want addressed. This step helps ensure you don’t forget anything important in the moment. Bring a notepad to take notes, or leave room next to your questions for the attorney's responses. 2. Share Key Details If there’s something important about your case—even if it feels minor or uncomfortable—write it down. Confidentiality rules bind attorneys and require them not to disclose what you share unless legally required. Information you think is irrelevant might be crucial to your case. 3. Bring Relevant Documents Gather any paperwork tied to your legal issue. This compilation could include court filings, contracts, photos, emails, or text messages. These materials give the attorney a clearer picture of your situation. 4. Provide Copies Avoid handing over original documents. Instead, bring or send copies ahead of time via email or secure upload. This effort saves time and allows the attorney to review your case more thoroughly. 5. Be Ready to Pay Some consultations are free, but many involve a small fee. Plan by bringing a form of payment—cash, check, or card. 6. Consider Confidentiality If you want to bring someone for support, be aware that it may affect confidentiality. Conversations with your lawyer are privileged—unless a third party is present. 7. Limit Distractions Turn off your phone before the meeting to show respect for the attorney’s time—and to stay focused on the discussion. Need Legal Help in Ohio? At Hoover Kacyon LLC, we’re committed to guiding clients through their legal challenges with compassion and clarity. We are dedicated to supporting our clients in Akron, Cuyahoga Falls, and Fairlawn, Ohio, and delivering the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals while also providing excellent, compassionate customer service. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward.
After an accident, the stress can feel relentless—medical bills, lost wages, and the emotional strain of recovery all add up. During this time, having a personal injury attorney in your corner can make a significant difference. Legal Expertise You Can Trust Personal injury law is complex. An experienced attorney understands how to navigate local laws, deadlines, and liability issues to protect your rights. Without that knowledge, you risk missing key opportunities to strengthen your case or file within the correct time frame. Accurately Valuing Your Claim Your injuries may impact you far beyond your current medical bills. An attorney knows how to evaluate your claim based on long-term needs like future treatments, loss of earning potential, and emotional suffering. This valuation ensures you’re not settling for less than you deserve. Dealing with Insurance Companies Insurance companies aim to pay as little as possible. A seasoned lawyer understands their tactics and negotiates on your behalf, significantly increasing your chances of securing a fair settlement. Resources That Strengthen Your Case Personal injury lawyers often work with medical experts, accident reconstruction specialists, and investigators to build strong, evidence-backed cases. These professionals help clarify what happened and why you deserve compensation. Support Through Every Step Handling legal paperwork, meeting deadlines, and communicating with insurers can be overwhelming, especially when you need to focus on healing. Your attorney takes on that burden, allowing you to focus on recovery. Plus, many work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay unless they win your case. Get the Support You Deserve At Hoover Kacyon LLC, we believe no one should face the aftermath of an accident alone. Our team is here to provide knowledgeable legal support, advocate for your best interests, and help you confidently move forward. We are dedicated to supporting our clients in Akron, Cuyahoga Falls, and Fairlawn, Ohio, and delivering the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals while also providing excellent, compassionate customer service. Call us at 330-922-4491 or contact us online to make an appointment and find out how we can help you get the compensation you need—and the peace of mind you deserve.
First off, congratulations on your engagement! As you dive into the exciting world of wedding planning—choosing the venue, tasting cake samples, and managing guest lists—it’s easy to focus on the celebration and overlook the legal and financial foundation of your future together. One important item that often gets left off the checklist is a prenuptial agreement. Why Consider a Prenuptial Agreement in Ohio? A prenuptial agreement , or “prenup,” is a legally binding contract made before marriage that outlines how to handle assets, debts, and financial matters in the event of divorce or death. In Ohio, prenups are enforceable if they are entered voluntarily, disclose all assets fully, and are fair when signing. Couples might consider a prenup to: Protect pre-marital assets or businesses Define responsibility for individual and joint debts Plan for future inheritances Outline spousal support expectations While you cannot include child custody or child support terms in a prenup under Ohio law (those decisions are always made in the child's best interest at the time of separation), you can make agreements about things like future education expenses or additional support. Starting the Conversation Bringing up a prenup doesn’t have to be awkward. Here are a few tips to make the conversation easier: Choose your timing wisely. Find a calm moment when you’re both open to discussing your future. Be transparent about your reasons. Framing the agreement as a mutual protection and clarity tool can go a long way. Engage your partner . This process should be a joint one, not a demand from one side. Stay focused on your relationship. Input from others is natural, but the agreement should reflect your shared values and goals. At Hoover Kacyon, LLC, we understand the emotional and practical aspects of marriage planning. A prenup isn’t about expecting failure—it’s about entering your marriage with honesty, respect, and shared understanding. Ready to talk it through? Our family law attorneys are here to help you protect what matters most—now and in the future. We deliver the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals while also providing excellent customer service. Call us at 330-922-4491 or contact us online to make an appointment.
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For many families, grandparents play an essential role in their grandchildren’s lives. They provide love, guidance, and stability, often stepping in to help raise or care for children. But after a divorce, separation, or other family disruption, grandparents may find themselves cut off from spending time with their grandchildren. This can be heartbreaking for both the grandparent and the child. Ohio Law on Grandparent Visitation Ohio is one of the states that recognizes grandparents’ rights. Under Ohio Revised Code 3109.051 , grandparents can request visitation in certain situations, such as: When the child’s parents divorce or separate When one parent passes away When a child is born to an unmarried mother The court will review whether visitation is in the child’s best interests. Factors may include the child’s relationship with the grandparent, the wishes of the child and parents, the child’s adjustment to home and school, and the health of everyone involved. Custody and Temporary Care In some cases, grandparents may seek temporary custody or even full custody of a grandchild. Temporary rights may be obtained through a power of attorney (if both parents consent) or a caretaker authorization affidavit (if parents cannot be located). Courts may grant full custody if parents are found “unfit” due to issues such as abuse, neglect, or substance abuse. These cases are complex, and strong legal representation is essential. Enforcing Court-Ordered Visitation If a court has granted visitation but parents refuse to comply, they can be held in contempt of court. This may result in fines, attorney’s fees, or even jail time for noncompliance. Having an experienced attorney ensures your rights—and your relationship with your grandchild—are protected. How We Can Help At Hoover Kacyon, LLC, our family law attorneys understand how important the bond between grandparents and grandchildren can be. We are committed to helping you secure the visitation or custody rights that serve your grandchild’s best interests. We deliver the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals, while also providing excellent customer service. Call us at 330-922-4491 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.
In Ohio, child custody and visitation orders are legally binding. Once a judge signs off, both parents are expected to follow the terms—regardless of personal disagreements. Failing to comply isn’t just a parenting issue; it’s a legal one, and it can lead to serious consequences, including fines, reduced parenting time, or even jail time in severe cases. Why Violations Matter Custody and visitation orders are crafted with one goal in mind: the child’s best interest. When a parent repeatedly ignores these orders—by missing scheduled exchanges, denying visitation, or refusing communication—it can disrupt the child’s routine and damage their emotional well-being. Ohio courts take these matters seriously to protect children from unnecessary stress and instability. What You Can Do If the Other Parent Violates the Order If you’re dealing with repeated violations, start by documenting everything. Keep detailed records of missed visits, late drop-offs, or communication attempts. This documentation becomes essential if you need to take the issue to court. When informal communication fails, you can file a motion for contempt in family court. The judge will review your evidence, and if they find the other parent in violation, they may impose consequences such as make-up parenting time, legal fees, or more restrictive visitation terms. In some cases, you may need to request a modification to the custody agreement, especially if the violations are ongoing or your child’s safety is at risk. Modifications are evaluated based on whether the change serves the child’s best interests. Preventing Future Disputes While conflict may arise, there are steps you can take to prevent future disputes: maintain clear written communication, follow the order exactly, and use shared calendars to avoid misunderstandings. Mediation can also help resolve disagreements before they escalate. Legal Help Is Key Enforcing or modifying custody orders can be overwhelming—but you don’t have to do it alone. We deliver the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals, while also providing excellent customer service. Call us at 330-922-4491 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.
Whether you’re married, unmarried, or navigating a divorce, protecting your relationship with your child is one of the most important—and emotional—parts of parenthood. At Hoover Kacyon, we work with fathers throughout Ohio who seek clarity, confidence, and a clear path forward regarding their parental rights. Married Fathers: Equal Rights Under Ohio Law If you're married to your child's mother, Ohio law recognizes both parents as having equal rights. During a divorce or legal separation , courts evaluate custody based on the best interest of the child , not the gender of the parent. Ohio Revised Code §3109.03 confirms that mothers and fathers stand on equal footing when determining custody, parenting time, and decision-making responsibilities. However, equal rights don’t always mean equal outcomes, which is why having experienced legal representation can be crucial. Unmarried Fathers: Establishing Paternity Is Essential If you are not married to your child’s mother, you do not automatically have parental rights in Ohio. Before you can request custody or parenting time, you must legally establish paternity. You can do this in several ways: Acknowledgment of Paternity Affidavit: This is the simplest route, often signed at the hospital after birth by both parents. Administrative Order through CSEA: If paternity is uncertain or contested, Ohio’s Child Support Enforcement Agency can order genetic testing and issue a determination. Court Order: In some cases, you must establish paternity through the juvenile or domestic relations court. Once paternity is confirmed, you are legally recognized as the child’s father and can petition for shared parenting or custody—again, based on what serves the child's best interests. Protecting Your Role as a Father Navigating custody as a father can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re concerned the system may favor the mother. The truth is, Ohio courts are focused on creating parenting plans that serve the child, not on defaulting to either parent. At Hoover Kacyon, we stand with fathers who want to be present, involved, and valued in their children's lives. If you have questions about your rights or need support in a custody or paternity matter, contact our experienced family law team today. We deliver the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals, while also providing excellent customer service. Call us at 330-922-4491 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.
Since the 2015 Supreme Court ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges, same-sex couples in Ohio have gained full marriage equality, granting them the same legal recognition and protections as opposite-sex couples. While this was a historic win, navigating the nuances of family law can still be complex, especially as it relates to parenting, property, and legal planning. Marriage and Family Law Protections Married same-sex couples in Ohio enjoy key rights, including joint tax filing, inheritance without a will, and medical decision-making authority for a spouse. These protections also extend to family law matters, such as child custody and spousal support. In custody cases, Ohio courts prioritize the child’s best interests, allowing both partners to seek shared custody or visitation rights, provided the court recognizes them as legal parents. Adoption laws in Ohio support joint adoption, stepparent adoption, and second-parent adoption—critical steps for couples who wish to ensure both parents have equal legal standing in their child’s life. Financial and Estate Planning Marriage grants same-sex couples access to financial benefits such as Social Security survivor benefits, spousal health insurance, and equitable division of marital property during divorce. However, couples must establish clear estate plans, including wills, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives, to avoid future legal complications and ensure their wishes are honored. Protection Against Discrimination Although federal laws prohibit discrimination in employment and housing, Ohio lacks comprehensive protections for same-sex couples in public accommodations. Staying informed about legal rights and seeking advice when issues arise is key to avoiding discrimination and ensuring equal treatment. Why Legal Guidance Matters While legal advancements have paved the way for more equal treatment, same-sex couples can still face challenges in areas like parental rights or estate disputes. Consulting with a knowledgeable family law attorney can help proactively protect your rights and provide peace of mind. At Hoover Kacyon, our team is committed to supporting all families with clarity and compassion. If you have questions about your legal rights as a same-sex couple in northeastern Ohio, we’re here to help you navigate every step of the process. We deliver the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals while also providing excellent customer service. Call us at 330-922-4491 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.
Adopting a child is a life-changing decision that is both exciting and complex. While adoption success rates remain high, the process can be challenging, especially for first-time adoptive parents. At Hoover Kacyon, we help Ohio families navigate the adoption process with confidence by avoiding common pitfalls that can delay or even derail it. 1. Trying to Navigate the Process Without Legal Support Adoption involves a maze of paperwork, deadlines, and legal requirements. One of the biggest mistakes families make is attempting to handle it all alone. An experienced Ohio adoption attorney can ensure that every step is completed accurately and legally. From reviewing agreements to guiding you through court proceedings, legal guidance can save time, stress, and potential setbacks. 2. Overlooking the Role of Birth Parents Regardless of the type of adoption—whether private, agency, or open—respecting the birth parents is essential. In open adoptions, where communication between adoptive and birth families is more common, maintaining a respectful and transparent relationship benefits everyone, especially the child. Compassion and understanding can go a long way in creating a smooth transition for all involved. 3. Ignoring Adoption Regulations and Updates Adoption laws are continually evolving to protect children and families. In Ohio, rules regarding advertising for adoption, social media usage, and financial transactions are taken seriously. Failing to follow proper procedures can lead to legal issues or the denial of your adoption petition. Always consult with your adoption professional or attorney before making public posts or agreements. 4. Skipping the Research Every adoption is different. Costs, wait times, and legal requirements can vary significantly based on the circumstances. Doing your homework—about the agency, the process, and even travel requirements—can prevent delays or misunderstandings. Knowledge is power, especially when supported by trusted legal counsel. 5. Falling for Adoption Scams Sadly, scams still target hopeful adoptive parents. Be wary of anyone requesting large payments in advance or promising a quick match. A qualified Ohio adoption lawyer can help you vet agencies, review contracts, and ensure your adoption follows all legal standards. Ready to Start the Journey? At Hoover Kacyon, our adoption attorneys are here to guide you through every step, from the initial consultation to finalization. If you're considering adoption in 2025, contact our team today to learn how we can help you build your family with confidence and peace of mind. We deliver the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals, while also providing excellent customer service. Call us at 330-922-4491 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.
Meeting with an attorney for the first time—often called an initial consultation—is a key step in addressing your legal issue. Whether you're dealing with family matters, criminal charges, or civil disputes, this first meeting helps both you and the attorney determine if you're a good fit to work together. Even if you decide not to hire that lawyer, the consultation can still offer valuable insight and direction. To make the most of this appointment, preparation is essential. Here are a few ways to ensure your consultation is productive and efficient: 1. Write Down Your Questions Before your meeting, jot down any questions or concerns you want addressed. This step helps ensure you don’t forget anything important in the moment. Bring a notepad to take notes, or leave room next to your questions for the attorney's responses. 2. Share Key Details If there’s something important about your case—even if it feels minor or uncomfortable—write it down. Confidentiality rules bind attorneys and require them not to disclose what you share unless legally required. Information you think is irrelevant might be crucial to your case. 3. Bring Relevant Documents Gather any paperwork tied to your legal issue. This compilation could include court filings, contracts, photos, emails, or text messages. These materials give the attorney a clearer picture of your situation. 4. Provide Copies Avoid handing over original documents. Instead, bring or send copies ahead of time via email or secure upload. This effort saves time and allows the attorney to review your case more thoroughly. 5. Be Ready to Pay Some consultations are free, but many involve a small fee. Plan by bringing a form of payment—cash, check, or card. 6. Consider Confidentiality If you want to bring someone for support, be aware that it may affect confidentiality. Conversations with your lawyer are privileged—unless a third party is present. 7. Limit Distractions Turn off your phone before the meeting to show respect for the attorney’s time—and to stay focused on the discussion. Need Legal Help in Ohio? At Hoover Kacyon LLC, we’re committed to guiding clients through their legal challenges with compassion and clarity. We are dedicated to supporting our clients in Akron, Cuyahoga Falls, and Fairlawn, Ohio, and delivering the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals while also providing excellent, compassionate customer service. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward.
