Introduction
Delaware’s Family Court system presents its own procedural requirements, timelines, and legal standards that differ from other court divisions. Thomas D. Shellenberger has built his practice around helping clients navigate this system, providing results-oriented representation for individuals facing divorce, custody disputes, and other family law matters. The firm focuses on making sense of what clients often experience as a confusing and stressful legal process.
Practice Areas
Divorce
Delaware divorce law requires navigating issues of property division, alimony, debt allocation, and in many cases, custody and support of minor children. Delaware follows an equitable distribution model for property division, meaning that marital assets are divided fairly but not necessarily equally. The court considers factors including the length of the marriage, each spouse’s age and health, each spouse’s contributions to the marriage, and the economic circumstances of each party. Attorney Shellenberger represents clients through both contested and uncontested divorce proceedings, working to protect their financial interests and parental rights at every stage from initial filing through final decree.
Child Custody
Custody disputes often represent the most emotionally charged aspect of a family law case. The firm recognizes that children can become unintended casualties of their parents’ separation, and that the prospect of reduced time with a child is one of the hardest challenges a parent can face. Delaware courts apply the best interests of the child standard when making custody determinations, evaluating factors including the wishes of the parents and child, the child’s adjustment to home, school, and community, the mental and physical health of all parties, and the past and present compliance of each parent with their parental obligations. Shellenberger works to establish custody arrangements that protect the parent-child relationship while satisfying the court’s requirements.
Parental Rights
The firm represents parents in matters involving the establishment, protection, and enforcement of parental rights. These cases may arise in the context of divorce, paternity disputes, or situations where a parent’s rights are being challenged.
Protection from Abuse
When domestic violence or abuse occurs, obtaining a protection from abuse order can be critical to a client’s safety. The firm represents individuals seeking these orders as well as those who must respond to allegations of abuse.
Adoption
Adoption proceedings carry legal implications that reshape the rights and responsibilities of parents and children permanently. Delaware law recognizes several types of adoption, including stepparent adoption, private adoption, agency adoption, and adult adoption, each with its own procedural requirements. The process involves background checks, home studies, court hearings, and the legal termination of one or both biological parents’ rights. The firm handles the legal process of adoption, guiding clients through the court requirements and paperwork involved, and working to bring families together through the legal system.
Paternity
Establishing legal paternity is necessary for securing rights to custody and parenting time, and for imposing child support obligations. The firm handles paternity actions for both mothers and fathers.
Premarital Agreements
For couples planning to marry, a premarital agreement can address property rights, financial responsibilities, and other matters in advance. The firm drafts and reviews these agreements to ensure they are legally enforceable and reflect each party’s intentions.
Attorney Profile
Thomas D. Shellenberger concentrates his practice on family law in Delaware. His experience with the Delaware Family Court system allows him to guide clients through proceedings with a clear understanding of the court’s expectations, procedures, and standards. His approach is results-oriented, focused on achieving outcomes that protect his clients’ rights and interests.
Location and Contact
- Phone: 302-887-9116
- Website: delawarefamilylaw.com/
- Service Area: Delaware
Frequently Asked Questions
What family law matters does the firm handle?
The firm handles divorce, child custody, parental rights, protection from abuse orders, adoption, paternity, and premarital agreements. All services are focused on matters within the Delaware Family Court system.
How does Delaware handle child custody in divorce cases?
Delaware courts evaluate custody arrangements based on the best interests of the child, considering factors such as the child’s relationship with each parent, each parent’s ability to provide care, the child’s adjustment to home and school, and any history of domestic violence. Attorney Shellenberger works to present the strongest possible case for his clients’ custody positions.
Does the firm handle protection from abuse cases?
Yes. The firm represents individuals seeking protection from abuse orders and those responding to allegations. These cases often require urgent action and familiarity with the expedited processes available through the Delaware Family Court.
What is the purpose of a premarital agreement?
A premarital agreement establishes terms for property rights, financial responsibilities, and other matters before a marriage takes place. These agreements provide clarity and protection for both parties in the event of a later divorce or separation. The firm drafts and reviews these agreements to ensure legal enforceability.