Divorce, Custody & Family Law

You pay no legal fees to us if we do not assist you in getting some compensation or recovery as we agree should we accept your case. At the Law Offices of James J. Stone, we understand that no one’s family is perfect, and that going through a divorce or a custody battle can be very stressful. It can be easy to let your emotions get the best of you during this difficult time, but it is important to remember that the decisions you make now will have a lasting impact on your family relationships, your finances, and your future legal rights. We are here to guide you through this challenging time, and will work tirelessly to make sure your rights are protected.

We assist our clients with a variety of family law issues, including:

  • Divorce, including military divorce
  • Child custody and visitation rights
  • Child support
  • Determination of paternity

Divorce in Hawaii

Any person seeking a divorce in Hawaii, including foreign nationals, residents of other states, and military personnel, must have lived in Hawaii for six months prior to the divorce. After six months, anyone can file a divorce petition in family court for any reason; Hawaii law does not require you to state a reason in order to file for divorce. Only one spouse needs to file for a divorce in Hawaii. 

In an uncontested divorce, the parties agree on all of the issues, and this type of divorce proceeds much more quickly than a contested divorce, because the parties do not even have to appear in court if the judge approves the agreement. If the parties cannot agree on all of the issues, the process takes significantly longer because the judge must decide on the unresolved issues in the divorce proceedings.

Child Custody, Visitation, Support

The court may award custody to either one or both parents according to what it determines to be in the best interests of the child. The court may also award visitation rights to parents, siblings, grandparents, or others interested in the child’s welfare. Child support is based on a number of factors, including the earning potential of both parents, the needs of the child, and the existence of any other children or dependants who must be cared for.

Paternity

We represent clients seeking to establish or challenge paternity. Once paternity is established, the father will have certain rights and obligations with respect to the child, including the obligation to pay child support.

Experienced Family Law Representation in Hawaii

With over thirty years of experience practicing family law in Hawaii courts, James J. Stone has the knowledge and skill to ensure your rights are protected in your divorce, child custody, or other family law matter.  Contact the Law Offices of James J. Stone for a consultation regarding your family law matter.