Reno Divorce Lawyer

Get Help Resolving Difficult Disputes, Mediating Solutions, and Finalizing Marriage Dissolution From Our Experienced Divorce Attorney in Reno, NV

Divorce can be one of the most challenging transitions a person faces. At Smit Law Group, our team understands that ending a marriage involves not just legal issues, but emotional, financial, and practical ones, too. Whether your divorce is amicable or contested, having our experienced Reno divorce lawyer handling your case ensures that you can move forward with confidence.

We’re ready to guide you through divorce proceedings in Washoe County, from what to expect from the court process to how you can prepare for the key issues that most commonly arise during marital dissolution. For the advantages that come with having an experienced divorce attorney in Reno, NV, on your side, contact us today.

Understanding Divorce Proceedings in Nevada

Divorce is the legal process of ending a marriage. Under Nevada law, divorce is referred to as “dissolution of marriage.” Divorce and related concerns, such as property division, child custody, and child support, are among the most common types of family law issues that arise in Reno and the surrounding area.

Grounds for Divorce Under Nevada Law

Nevada is a “no-fault” divorce state, which means you do not have to prove wrongdoing to file for divorce. The most common ground for divorce in our areas is incompatibility, in which at least one spouse states, essentially, that the marriage cannot be repaired and there is no chance of reconciliation. Other grounds for divorce in Nevada include living separately for at least one year or the insanity of one spouse.

A knowledgeable Reno divorce lawyer can help you determine the best legal basis for your case and ensure all paperwork and procedural requirements are met.

Residency Requirements to File for Divorce

To file for divorce in Nevada, at least one spouse must have lived in the state for six weeks before filing. Residency must be proven by an affidavit from a witness who can confirm that the filing spouse has lived in Nevada for the required time.

Because Reno divorces are handled through the Second Judicial District Court in Washoe County, it’s important to file your petition correctly and submit all required forms. Mistakes in filing can delay your case or even result in dismissal.

Your future deserves attention today. Call 775-993-2235 or contact our team to schedule a consultation. We’re here to help you move forward with confidence.

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Key Issues in Divorce

Before you divorce can be finalized, all legal issues under dispute must be resolved. Divorce cases typically involve several interrelated areas that may result in disputes.

Division of Property and Debts

Nevada is a community property state, meaning that all assets and debts acquired during the marriage are generally split equally between spouses. This includes income, real estate, vehicles, and retirement accounts.

However, certain assets, like gifts, inheritances, or property owned before marriage, may be considered separate property.

A Reno divorce lawyer from Smit Law Group will carefully assess your financial situation to ensure your property division is fair and properly documented.

Child Custody and Parenting Time

When minor children are involved, the court must decide on legal custody (decision-making authority) and physical custody (where the child lives).

The guiding principle is always the best interests of the child. The court encourages parents to work together to create a parenting plan, but doing so is often a challenge. If child custody disputes arise, we’re ready to represent your interests in custody negotiations or hearings.

Child Support

Child support in Nevada is determined according to state guidelines that consider both parents’ income, the number of children, and the time spent with each parent. We help our clients pursue fair resolutions to child support disputes without losing focus on the child’s best interests. Through our efforts, we have ensured that parents receiving payments get what they need to provide for the child and prevented parents responsible for paying child support from facing unreasonable financial demands.

Spousal Support (Alimony)

Alimony, or spousal support, may be awarded based on the length of the marriage, each spouse’s financial situation, and earning capacity. Temporary support may be ordered during the divorce, while long-term support could continue afterward, depending on the circumstances.

The Divorce Process in Reno

While every case is unique, most Reno divorces follow a similar general process through the Second Judicial District Court.

Step 1: Filing the Initial Forms

The spouse initiating the divorce (the “Plaintiff”) files a Complaint for Divorce. The other spouse (the “Defendant”) must be formally served with the documents. The court provides self-help forms and instructions at the Washoe County Courts Resource Center, which is located inside the courthouse, and online.

At this stage, it’s important to ensure the paperwork is accurate and complete. A seasoned Reno divorce lawyer can prepare and file your documents efficiently and avoid common procedural errors.

Step 2: Response and Temporary Orders

Once served, the Defendant has 20 days to file an Answer. Either party may also request temporary orders concerning custody, support, or possession of the family home while the case is pending.

If the couple agrees on all terms, the divorce may proceed as an uncontested divorce, which is faster and less expensive. If disputes remain, it becomes a contested divorce requiring further negotiation or trial.

Step 3: Discovery and Negotiation

During the discovery phase, both parties exchange information about income, property, and other relevant matters. Both sides’ attorneys use this process to clarify financial details and evaluate fair settlement options.

As your divorce attorney, we will guide you through discovery, ensuring that disclosures are complete and protecting you from unfair or misleading financial claims by your spouse.

Step 4: Mediation or Settlement

Washoe County often encourages mediation to help spouses resolve disagreements outside of court. A neutral mediator assists both parties in finding common ground, particularly regarding custody and visitation.

Many divorces are settled through mediation or direct negotiation, avoiding the stress and cost of trial. However, if an agreement cannot be reached, your attorney will prepare for litigation. As an experienced trial attorney, Smit Law Group is ready to fight for you in court if necessary.

Step 5: Trial and Final Decree

If the case goes to trial, the judge will make decisions on all unresolved issues. Once the court issues its ruling, a Decree of Divorce is filed. This filing officially ends the marriage. Each party is legally bound by its terms regarding property division, custody, and support.

It’s important that the decree is properly executed and that all post-divorce obligations, such as property transfers or support payments, are handled correctly. We manage this critical final step of the legal marriage dissolution process for our clients, so they can focus on beginning their next chapter.

Court Resources and Self-Help Options

The Second Judicial District Court’s Resource Center provides valuable tools for those representing themselves or seeking general information about the divorce process in Washoe County. These include:

• Divorce forms and filing instructions
• Parenting plans and child support worksheets
• Links to Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) governing family law
• Mediation and parenting class information
• Clerk’s office contact details for filing and case inquiries

You can access these materials online at washoecountycourt.us or in person at the courthouse.

While these resources are helpful, navigating the legal process on your own can be overwhelming, especially when your future and your family’s well-being are at stake. These resources are no substitute for professional legal representation and the impact that dedicated advocacy can have on the outcome of your divorce proceedings.

How Smit Law Group Can Help

An experienced divorce lawyer in Reno, NV, can ensure your filings are complete, your rights are protected, and your case proceeds as smoothly as possible by:

• Preparing and filing accurate court documents: Divorce requires detailed petitions, financial disclosures, and service affidavits. A lawyer ensures every document meets Nevada’s strict procedural requirements.
• Meeting all court deadlines: Missing a filing date or hearing can seriously delay or jeopardize your case. We keep everything on time and on track.
• Advising you on your legal options: Your attorney helps you understand how Nevada’s laws apply to your unique situation, from property rights to spousal support eligibility.
• Negotiating from a position of strength: Lawyers use experience and knowledge of local courts to secure favorable settlements without unnecessary conflict.
• Protecting your financial interests: Your attorney ensures assets are valued fairly, debts are divided equitably, and long-term financial stability is prioritized.
• Representing you in hearings and mediation: Whether in front of a judge or mediator, your lawyer ensures your voice is heard and your rights are respected.
• Safeguarding your parental rights: For parents, a divorce lawyer helps establish fair custody and visitation arrangements that align with the child’s best interests.

We provide hands-on help, development of personalized strategies, and dedicated representation in negotiations and in court that goes far beyond what self-service court resources offer.

Our Divorce Attorney in Reno, NV, Protects Clients’ Rights

A seasoned Reno divorce lawyer is more than a legal representative. We are your advocate, guide, and safeguard throughout one of life’s most stressful transitions.

Divorce can affect every aspect of your life: your home, finances, and relationship with your children. A skilled attorney ensures that your rights are not overlooked or compromised in the process.

To protect you, we will:

• Identify potential pitfalls, such as hidden assets or unfair custody proposals, and work proactively to prevent them
• Handle difficult negotiations with professionalism, shielding you from emotional confrontation
• Ensure that all agreements are fair and enforceable, contributing productively to the process of finalizing the divorce so you can move forward with your life

By understanding both the law and the tendencies of local judges in Washoe County, our attorney can craft strategies that maximize your protection and position you for a stronger future. Simply put, having a divorce attorney in Reno, NV, on your side gives you confidence, clarity, and control when it matters most.

Why Choose Smit Law Group as Your Reno Divorce Lawyer?

At Smit Law Group, we focus on guiding clients through divorce and other family law matters with professionalism, empathy, and attention to detail. Our firm’s founder, attorney Margaretha "Greta" Smit, is known for her practical approach to complex family law issues and her deep understanding of Washoe County courts and procedures.

Clients choose us to assist with their divorce proceedings because we offer:

• Clear communication: We explain your options in plain language and keep you informed at every step.
• Local experience: Our team is familiar with the judges, mediators, and opposing counsel in the Reno family law system.
• Strategic advocacy: Whether negotiating settlements or representing clients in trial, we pursue outcomes that protect your long-term interests.
• Comprehensive services: From custody and support to asset division and post-divorce modifications, we handle all aspects of family law.

Divorce is never easy, but you don’t have to face it alone. Whether you’re just beginning to consider your options or are ready to file, our compassionate attorney at Smit Law Group can help you chart a clear course forward.

Contact a Reno Divorce Lawyer at Smit Law Group Today for Your Initial Consultation

Regardless of whether you need help with property division, custody, or post-divorce modifications, our team is ready to stand by your side with the knowledge, compassion, and dedication you deserve. If you’re ready to take the first step, we invite you to schedule a confidential consultation (available at a reasonable flat-rate cost) to discuss your situation and develop a personalized strategy.

During your consultation, we will answer your questions, review your goals, and help you understand what to expect at each stage of the process.

For help from a divorce attorney in Reno, NV, contact Smit Law Group online or call 775-993-2235 today.