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Indiana Family Law Attorneys

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Indiana Family Law Experts: Divorce, Custody & Support

Dealing with family law matters can be overwhelming and emotionally challenging. At Langer & Langer, we handle a wide range of family law issues in Porter and LaPorte Counties, including divorce, child custody disputes, college expenses, child support, spousal support, paternity cases, property division, visitation disputes, and domestic violence matters. Having a dedicated Indiana family law attorney by your side can make all the difference.

Our experienced attorneys understand the complexities of Indiana family law and provide compassionate guidance, assertive advocacy, and practical solutions tailored to your family’s needs. When you choose our firm, you receive trusted legal representation from attorneys recognized as leaders in the field. Attorney Michael Langer has been honored as a Two-Year Best Family Law Attorney for Client Satisfaction by the American Institute of Family Law Attorneys, a recognition awarded to those who achieve outstanding results without compromising client support.

With the right legal support, you can protect your rights, navigate court proceedings with confidence, and move forward with clarity and peace of mind. Our team is ready to help you handle even the most challenging domestic relations matters. Call us at 219-464-3246 to schedule an initial consultation and take the first step toward safeguarding your rights and your family’s future.

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Elaine Branson profile picture
Elaine Branson
82 days ago
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If you want top-tier legal representation, this is the firm to choose. I had the pleasure of speaking with Sarah Langer. She is an exceptionally clear, accurate, and compassionate communicator. In the darkest moments for my son and me, she provided deep empathy and unwavering support. This firm stands for true ethics. Look no further—Sarah is absolutely phenomenal.
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Twinkle Forrest profile picture
Twinkle Forrest
84 days ago
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I would like to sincerely thank Robert Langer and the entire staff at Langer & Langer for all they have done for our family. From the moment Robert learned about our daughter’s case, he personally called me that same night. As a mother, that means more to me than I can put into words. We still have a journey ahead of us, but I truly appreciate Robert Langer and his entire team for everything they have done and continue to do for our family. When you’re going through one of the hardest times of your life, having people who genuinely care makes such a difference…not only for you, but for your entire family. I thank Father God for placing Robert and his team along our path. And I know in my heart that my little girl would be proud to know that her mommy hasn’t stopped and will not stop seeking justice for her. 💚💚💚
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Fawn Selsor profile picture
Fawn Selsor
84 days ago
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Robert Langer and his assistant have been very helpful and respectful during my lawsuit. They have kept in constant communication with me and got me the the most money for my settlement. I will always recommend this law firm.
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Miranda Lund profile picture
Miranda Lund
87 days ago
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I reached out after my ex-employer had a company vehicle hit my parked car and they didn’t want to pay for the damages. Robert within a week got me compensated for the damages and my lost wages!
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Harriette Fridge profile picture
Harriette Fridge
101 days ago
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I highly recommend Steve Langer, a two-time award-winning attorney of Langer and Langer Law. I consulted with him regarding a severe bedsores neglect case involving a beloved family member. He demonstrated compassionate care from the very first minute making me feel completely supported during a tough time. Even for a simple initial evaluation, he was exceptionally thorough and generously invested his valuable time free of charge to look into our situation. He is honest, highly efficient, and will not waste time or money. He is a wonderful person of the highest professional standards and unmatched integrity. LOOK NO FURTHER! P.S. I am truly honored to have met him and will definitely send referrals his way.
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Bernadette Minix
105 days ago
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Professional very positive,helpful.
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Melinda Finley profile picture
Melinda Finley
129 days ago
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Langer & Langer is a professional and compassionate firm. I am very pleased with the service they provided me and the staff! Heather Gilbert exceeded my expectations and is a great person too. I will miss conversations with her now that my case is closed. I cannot express my gratitude and respect for Heather and the entire staff of Langer & Langer. If you are looking for results from top notch attorneys, you need to hire Langer & Langer.
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Grace Arnett profile picture
Grace Arnett
143 days ago
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Robert is the best, guiding us through the whole process, working hard and fighting to make sure we got everything settled in our favor I could not recommend him enough. Very professional company all around.
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Kristin Lumley profile picture
Kristin Lumley
181 days ago
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I reached out to Robert at Langer & Langer after being involved in an accident. From the beginning, he and his team have been incredibly responsive and always available to answer any questions—they either reply right away or follow up with a call very quickly. Any time documents or updates were sent, they made sure I had a chance to review everything and encouraged me to reach out with questions, which made me feel comfortable and informed throughout the process. They are extremely professional and honest, and at no point did I feel like just another case—I truly felt like they genuinely care about their clients. I would absolutely recommend them to anyone needing an attorney after an accident.
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Michael Albers profile picture
Michael Albers
210 days ago
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Danielle is a fantastic lawyer, very professional and great at her job.
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Divorce In Indiana

What is divorce?

A divorce is a legal process by which a marriage is legally terminated and the parties are restored to the status of single persons.  In a divorce proceeding, other related issues such as disposition of property, child support, child custody, and parenting time are resolved by the parties, a mediator, or a court with guidance from a qualified Indiana divorce lawyer.

When can I file for divorce?

At least one of the parties must have been a resident of the State of Indiana or stationed at a United States Military Installation within Indiana for six months immediately proceeding the filing of the petition for dissolution. In addition, at least one of the parties must have been a resident of the county or stationed at a United States Military Installation within the county where the petition is filed for three months immediately preceding the filing of the petition for dissolution.

How long will the divorce take?

A final hearing is not allowed to be held any earlier than 60 days after the filing of the petition for dissolution. The case may be delayed because of crowded court dockets. In addition, the extent to which aspects of the case are contested will also impact how long a divorce may take.

What is spousal maintenance or Alimony?

The court may order spousal maintenance in a dissolution of marriage if the court finds one of the following:

  • A spouse is physically or mentally incapacitated to the extent that such spouse cannot support himself or herself
  • A spouse lacks sufficient property to provide for that spouse’s specific needs and the spouse is a custodian of a child whose physical or mental incapacity requires that spouse to forgo employment

In addition, after considering a spouse’s educational level, whether there has been an interruption in the education or employment as a result of homemaking responsibilities, the earning capacity of each spouse, and the time and expense necessary to acquire sufficient education or training to enable the spouse seeking maintenance to find appropriate employment, a court may find that rehabilitative maintenance for that spouse is necessary for a period not to exceed three years.

What is a prenuptial agreement?

Prenuptial (antenuptial) agreements are legal contracts entered into by parties contemplating marriage in order to settle their property rights during marriage and upon termination of marriage either by death or by dissolution. Such agreements are favored by Indiana law. Generally, an agreement should be in writing, contain full disclosure of all assets before the marriage, and be signed by both husband and wife. In addition, it is generally recommended that prenuptial agreements should be negotiated and reduced to writing well in advance of the anticipated wedding date and that both parties are represented by independent counsel.

What can I do to minimize my legal fees and costs?

Alternative Dispute Resolution in Indiana

ChatGPT said:

In Indiana, family law disputes can often be resolved without court through Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), including mediation, collaborative law, arbitration, early neutral evaluation, and settlement conferences, which are generally faster, less expensive, and less stressful than traditional litigation.

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Are there means of resolving our divorce without going to trial?

Yes. Mediation, collaborative law, and settlement negotiations can resolve most divorce issues without a trial. Our attorneys guide you through whichever path fits your situation, whether that's a fully negotiated settlement or a mediated agreement.
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What is mediation?

Mediation is a method in which a neutral and impartial third party assists in resolving disputes. Unlike a trial, the final decision rests with the clients. Mediation is confidential, informal, and generally less expensive than litigation or other processes. The parties participate in mediation with their attorneys present to provide them with guidance.

Child Custody In Indiana

What is the difference between physical custody and legal custody?

Physical custody defines with whom the minor child will reside and who is responsible for the care, supervision, or welfare of the minor child. Legal custody defines the person who has the authority and responsibility for the major decisions concerning the child’s upbringing, including the child’s education, health care, and religious training. Joint legal custody means that both parties will share authority and responsibility for the major decisions concerning the child’s upbringing, including the child’s education, health care and religious training.

Who is entitled to custody?

In Indiana, there is no presumption favoring either parent. The court determines custody in accordance with the best interests of the child. In determining the best interest, the court considers all relevant factors including the age and sex of the child, the wishes of the child’s parents, the wishes of the child, the interaction and interrelationship of the child with the child’s parents, siblings, and any other person who may significantly affect the child’s interests, the child’s adjustment to his home, school, and community, the mental and physical health of all individuals involved, any evidence of domestic or family violence, and any evidence that the child may have been cared for by a defacto custodian.

Can a parent relocate with the children to another state?

Relocation of a minor child depends on the unique facts and circumstances of each case. The relocating individual must file a notice of intent with the clerk of the court. The nonrelocating patent may then file an objection which must be timely and complaint with the statute. Upon motion of either party, the court will set the matter for hearing to determine if the relocating parent may actually relocate with the minor child. There are specific timing and content requirements related to the notice. Initially, the relocating individual has the burden to prove that the proposed relocation is made in good faith and for a legitimate reason, which, if proven, the non-relocating parent must then show that the proposed relocation is not in the best interest of the child. An Indiana child custody and child support modification attorney can assist with this process.

Child Support in Indiana

How is child support determined in Indiana?

The amount of child support is governed by application of the Indiana Child Support Guidelines. The Guidelines are designed to ensure consistency and predictability in child support amounts. In any proceeding there is a rebuttable presumption that the amount of child support which would be awarded by applying the Indiana Child Support Guidelines is correct. However, the court may conclude that the evidence in a particular case justifies deviating from the Guideline amount. The Guidelines utilize a Child Support Obligation Worksheet to calculate the presumed child support amount, which considers weekly gross income, any subsequent born children, any support obligation or duty for prior born children, maintenance received by either party, work-related child care expenses of each parent, weekly insurance premiums paid to provide insurance coverage for the children, and a parenting time credit which is based on the number of overnights exercised by the parent paying support.

Can child support be modified?

A child support obligation may be modified upon a showing of changed circumstances so substantial and continuing as to make the terms of the existing order unreasonable. A child support order may also be modified upon a showing that a party has been ordered to pay an amount in child support that differs by more than 20% from the amount that would be ordered by applying the child support guidelines and the order requested to be modified was issued at least 12 months before the petition was filed.

Property Distribution in Indiana

What property gets divided in a divorce?

In a divorce, the court will divide the property of the parties whether the property was owned by either spouse before the marriage, acquired by either spouse after the marriage and before the filing of the petition for dissolution or acquired by the joint efforts of both parties.

How is the property divided?

In Indiana, an equal division of the marital property is presumed to be just and reasonable. However, an equal division of marital property is not mandated by the court and the presumption of an equal division may be rebutted by a party who presents relevant evidence that an equal division would not be just and reasonable.

The court will consider the following evidence:

  •  Contributions of each spouse in the acquisition of the property, regardless of whether the contribution was income producing
  •  The extent to which the property was acquired by each spouse before the marriage or through inheritance or gift
  •  Economic circumstances of each spouse at the time the disposition of property is to become effective
  •  The conduct of the parties during the marriage as related to the disposition or dissipation of their property
  •  The earnings or earnings ability of the parties

FAQs About an Indiana Family Dispute Settlement Lawyer

A divorce is a legal process by which a marriage is legally terminated and the parties are restored to the status of single persons. In a divorce proceeding, other related issues such as disposition of property, child support, child custody, and parenting time are resolved by the parties, a mediator, or a court with guidance from a qualified Indiana divorce lawyer.

At least one of the parties must have been a resident of the State of Indiana or stationed at a United States Military Installation within Indiana for six months immediately preceding the filing of the petition for dissolution. In addition, at least one of the parties must have been a resident of the county or stationed at a United States Military Installation within the county where the petition is filed for three months immediately preceding the filing of the petition for dissolution.

A final hearing is not allowed to be held any earlier than 60 days after the filing of the petition for dissolution. However, the issues in any particular case as well as the extent to which they are contested will also impact how long a divorce may take.

The court may order spousal maintenance in a dissolution of marriage if the court finds one of the following:
  • A spouse is physically or mentally incapacitated to the extent that such spouse cannot support himself or herself
  • A spouse lacks sufficient property to provide for that spouse’s specific needs and the spouse is a custodian of a child whose physical or mental incapacity requires that spouse to forgo employment

In addition, after considering a spouse’s educational level, whether there has been an interruption in the education or employment as a result of homemaking responsibilities, the earning capacity of each spouse, and the time and expense necessary to acquire sufficient education or training to enable the spouse seeking maintenance to find appropriate employment, a court may find that rehabilitative maintenance for that spouse is necessary for a period not to exceed three years.

Prenuptial (antenuptial) agreements are legal contracts entered into by parties contemplating marriage in order to settle their property rights during marriage and upon termination of marriage either by death or by dissolution. Such agreements are favored by Indiana law. Such agreements should be in writing, contain full disclosure of all assets before the marriage, and be signed by both husband and wife. In addition, it is generally recommended that prenuptial agreements should be negotiated and reduced to writing well in advance of the anticipated wedding date and that both parties are represented by independent counsel.

Promptly collect all the records or other documents your lawyer requests. If it becomes necessary for your Indiana family lawyer to obtain such documents and records from another source, that will involve more effort and cost. Be prepared for telephone calls and office conferences with your attorney by maintaining a list of the issues or questions.

We are dedicated to protecting your rights with legal representation and strategic guidance. Often times some or all aspects of a divorce can be resolved through alternative dispute resolution such as a settlement conference or mediation. We are committed to always ensuring you are informed on the best way to move your case forward, including through alternative dispute resolution, when appropriate.

Mediation is a method in which a neutral and impartial third party assists in resolving disputes. Unlike a trial, the final decision rests with the clients. Mediation is confidential, informal, and generally less expensive than litigation or other processes. The parties participate in mediation with their attorneys present to provide them with guidance.

Physical custody defines with whom the minor child will primarily reside and who is responsible for the care, supervision, or welfare of the minor child. Legal custody defines the person who has the authority and responsibility for the major decisions concerning the child’s upbringing, including the child’s education, health care, and religious training. Joint legal custody means that both parties will share authority and responsibility for the major decisions concerning the child’s upbringing, including the child’s education, health care and religious training.

In Indiana, there is no presumption favoring either parent. The court determines custody in accordance with the best interests of the child. In determining the best interest, the court considers all relevant statutory factors including the age and sex of the child, the wishes of the child’s parents, the wishes of the child, the interaction and interrelationship of the child with the child’s parents, siblings, and any other person who may significantly affect the child’s interests, the child’s adjustment to his home, school, and community, the mental and physical health of all individuals involved, any evidence of domestic or family violence, and any evidence that the child may have been cared for by a defacto custodian.

Relocation of a minor child depends on the unique facts and circumstances of each case. The relocating individual must file a notice of intent with the clerk of the court. The nonrelocating patent may then file an objection, which must be timely and compliant with the statute. Upon the motion of either party, the court will set the matter for hearing to determine if the relocating parent may actually relocate with the minor child. There are specific timing and content requirements related to the notice. Initially, the relocating individual has the burden to prove that the proposed relocation is made in good faith and for a legitimate reason, which, if proven, the non-relocating parent must then show that the proposed relocation is not in the best interest of the child. An Indiana child custody and child support modification attorney can assist with this process.

The amount of child support is governed by application of the Indiana Child Support Guidelines. The Guidelines are designed to ensure consistency and predictability in child support amounts. In any proceeding there is a rebuttable presumption that the amount of child support which would be awarded by applying the Indiana Child Support Guidelines is correct. However, the court may conclude that the evidence in a particular case justifies deviating from the Guideline amount. The Guidelines utilize a Child Support Obligation Worksheet to calculate the presumed child support amount, which considers weekly gross income, any subsequent born children, any support obligation or duty for prior born children, maintenance received by either party, work-related child care expenses of each parent, weekly insurance premiums paid to provide insurance coverage for the children, and a parenting time credit which is based on the number of overnights exercised by the parent paying support.

A child support obligation may be modified upon a showing of changed circumstances so substantial and continuing as to make the terms of the existing order unreasonable. A child support order may also be modified upon a showing that a party has been ordered to pay an amount in child support that differs by more than 20% from the amount that would be ordered by applying the child support guidelines and the order requested to be modified was issued at least 12 months before the petition was filed.

In a divorce, the court will divide the property of the parties whether the property was owned by either spouse before the marriage, acquired by either spouse after the marriage and before the filing of the petition for dissolution or acquired by the joint efforts of both parties.

In Indiana, an equal division of the marital property is presumed to be just and reasonable. However, an equal division of marital property may be rebutted by a party who presents relevant evidence that an equal division would not be just and reasonable.

The court will consider the following evidence:

  • Contributions of each spouse in the acquisition of the property, regardless of whether the contribution was income producing
  • The extent to which the property was acquired by each spouse before the marriage or through inheritance or gift
  • Economic circumstances of each spouse at the time the disposition of property is to become effective
  • The conduct of the parties during the marriage as related to the disposition or dissipation of their property
  • The earnings or earnings ability of the parties
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