Protecting What Matters Most

Family Law

Family legal matters are some of the most personal and stressful situations you'll face. Matt provides experienced guidance with the compassion these cases deserve.

Family Law Is Different

Unlike criminal law, where there's a winner and a loser, family law is about finding a path forward. Even in contentious divorces, you might have to co-parent with your ex for years to come.

Matt's approach: Fight hard for what matters. Be reasonable about what doesn't. He won't escalate conflict just to run up legal bills. But when the other side is being unreasonable, he won't back down.

Most importantly, Matt keeps your children's wellbeing at the center of every decision. They didn't ask for this situation, and they deserve parents who can work together.

Other Family Law Matters

Custody Modifications

Life changes. If your current custody order isn't working, Matt can help you petition for a modification.

Paternity

Establishing paternity gives fathers rights to custody and visitation. Matt handles both voluntary and disputed cases.

Protective Orders

Need protection from abuse? Matt can help you get a protective order - or defend against an unfair one.

Enforcement Actions

If your ex isn't following court orders, Matt can file contempt actions to enforce them.

Why Matt for Family Law

  • 50+ trials - knows how to present your case
  • Criminal background - useful for DV/protective orders
  • Local relationships - knows the judges
  • Personal attention - works directly with you

Free Consultation

Every family situation is unique. Get honest advice about your options - no pressure.

Schedule Consultation

Common Questions

At minimum, 20 days - that's the waiting period after filing. But most divorces take longer. An uncontested divorce where both sides agree on everything might take 2-3 months. A contested divorce with disputes about property, custody, or support can take 6 months to over a year. Matt works to resolve issues efficiently while protecting your interests.

Not always. Many family law matters can be resolved through negotiation or mediation. If you and your spouse can agree on the major issues, the court may just need to approve your agreement. But if the other side won't be reasonable, Matt is ready to fight for you in court.

Idaho is a community property state. That means most assets acquired during the marriage are split 50/50. But there are exceptions: inheritances, gifts, and property owned before marriage may be separate property. The devil is in the details, and Matt knows how to identify and protect what's rightfully yours.

This happens more often than you'd think. Matt knows how to find hidden assets through discovery, subpoenas, and forensic accounting. He's uncovered hidden bank accounts, underreported income, and assets transferred to family members. If your spouse is being dishonest, Matt will find out.

Idaho calls it "spousal maintenance" and it's not automatic. Courts consider: how long you were married, your ability to support yourself, your spouse's ability to pay, and the standard of living during the marriage. Matt can evaluate whether you should seek maintenance or defend against an unfair request.

Going Through a Family Matter?

You don't have to face this alone. Get experienced help and honest advice about your situation.