Wichita, Kansas Family Law Attorneys in Sedgwick County

What Is Family Law in Wichita, Kansas?

Family law focuses on legal matters involving family relationships and household responsibilities. These cases often arise during some of the most emotionally challenging times in a person’s life, when individuals and families are facing uncertainty, stress, and major transitions. Family law matters can affect relationships, finances, and children, making compassionate and knowledgeable legal guidance especially important.

In Wichita and throughout Sedgwick County, family law may involve many. At Stange Law Firm, PC, our attorneys work closely with clients to help them move forward with care, understanding, and steady legal support throughout this difficult process.

Dissolution of Marriage in Sedgwick County

Dissolution of marriage is the legal process of ending a marriage. When individuals marry, they enter into a legally recognized relationship. When that relationship can no longer continue, one spouse must file the appropriate paperwork with the Kansas courts to begin the dissolution process.

Kansas is a no-fault dissolution state, meaning a spouse does not need to prove wrongdoing by the other party. Instead, the court may grant a dissolution when the marriage is irretrievably broken. Kansas also has residency requirements that must be met before a case may proceed.

During dissolution, courts work to divide marital property and debts in an equitable manner. An equitable division does not always mean an equal division. Courts consider factors such as the length of the marriage, each party’s contributions, and the future needs of both spouses. In some cases, misconduct such as infidelity or domestic abuse may also be considered when addressing property division and spousal maintenance.

Dissolution as Civil Litigation in Wichita, Kansas

Dissolution cases are handled in Kansas state courts and are treated as civil litigation. As part of the process, parties may exchange information and evidence through discovery tools such as depositions, interrogatories, and subpoenas.

Many cases also involve mediation, collaborative processes, or other forms of alternative dispute resolution, which can help reduce conflict and allow families to reach agreements outside of court. While some cases resolve through settlement, others—particularly those involving contested issues or complex financial matters—may require a trial. Throughout the process, having experienced legal guidance can help reduce uncertainty and stress.

Maintenance and Spousal Support in Sedgwick County

Spousal support, known in Kansas as maintenance, is often one of the most sensitive issues in a dissolution case. Unlike child support, Kansas law does not rely on a strict formula to determine maintenance. Instead, judges consider the unique circumstances of each family.

Courts may look at factors such as the length of the marriage, each party’s age and health, earning ability, financial resources, and the standard of living established during the marriage. In certain cases, misconduct may also be considered. Family law attorneys help present clear and thoughtful evidence so the court can reach a fair and appropriate decision.

Pre-Nuptial and Post-Nuptial Agreements in Wichita, Kansas

A prenuptial agreement is a contract entered into before marriage that allows couples to plan for the future by clearly defining financial rights and responsibilities. These agreements often address property ownership, asset division, and spousal maintenance in the event of dissolution.

To be enforceable in Kansas, prenuptial agreements must be entered into voluntarily and with full financial disclosure. Certain matters, such as child custody and child support, cannot be decided in advance. A postnuptial agreement serves a similar purpose but is created after the marriage has begun.

Parenting Time in Sedgwick County

Child custody matters are often among the most emotional aspects of family law. Kansas courts base custody and parenting time decisions on the best interests of the child, with the goal of promoting stability, safety, and healthy relationships.

Judges consider factors such as each parent’s relationship with the child, the ability to provide a stable home environment, and any history of substance abuse, domestic violence, or criminal behavior. When parents can agree on a parenting plan, courts generally approve it. If parents cannot reach an agreement, attorneys may present evidence to help the court determine an arrangement that best serves the child’s needs.

Legal and Physical in Wichita, Kansas

Kansas distinguishes between legal custody and physical custody. Legal custody involves the authority to make important decisions about a child’s upbringing, while physical custody refers to where the child primarily lives.

Courts may award joint legal custody, sole legal custody, shared physical custody, or primary physical custody depending on the circumstances. It is also possible for parents to share one type of custody without sharing the other. Understanding how Kansas courts approach these decisions helps families set realistic expectations and make informed choices as their case moves forward.

Support in Sedgwick County

Children have the right to financial support from both parents. Child support is intended to provide financial stability for children, even when parents live in separate households.

Kansas uses child support guidelines to calculate support amounts, considering factors such as each parent’s income, allowable deductions, healthcare costs, childcare expenses, and parenting time. Attorneys help ensure that child support is calculated accurately and fairly, particularly in cases involving disputed income or voluntary underemployment.

Abuse and Neglect Proceedings

Abuse and neglect proceedings are among the most serious and sensitive matters in family law. These cases may arise when the state believes a child may be at risk or is not receiving proper care. The state may initiate proceedings against a parent or guardian and may appoint separate representation for the child.

Family law attorneys assist clients by defending against allegations of abuse or neglect or by helping parents work toward reunification with their children when possible. Because the termination of parental rights carries permanent and life-changing consequences, these cases require careful preparation, compassionate advocacy, and a deep understanding of Kansas law and procedure.