Why Families Choose Us
- Helping Families Since 1982
- Free 30-Minute Consultations
- Over 3,000 Family Law Cases Successfully Handled
- Award-Winning Phoenix Family Law Attorney
- Top 5% Most Honored Professionals In America
Our Family Law Services
At Cohen Family Law, we recognize that no two family law cases are alike. Every client’s circumstances are unique. That is why we develop a personalized legal strategy tailored to your specific needs, goals, and long-term interests. If you are dealing with a family law issue in Phoenix, Arizona, our team is ready to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
Divorce
Divorce legally terminates the marriage between two spouses. Arizona is a no-fault divorce state, meaning one spouse can file based on irreconcilable differences and an irretrievably broken marriage. To file for divorce in Arizona, at least one spouse must have lived in the state for a minimum of 90 days. This is known as the jurisdictional requirement.
Divorce dissolves the marriage, but it does not automatically resolve:
- Child custody (legal decision-making and parenting time)
- Child support
- Spousal maintenance
- Property division
- Debt allocation
Divorces may be:
- Uncontested – when both spouses agree on all terms
- Contested – when disputes require negotiation or court intervention
Our firm helps clients navigate both contested and uncontested divorce proceedings with strategic guidance and strong advocacy.
Legal Separation
Arizona law allows spouses to pursue legal separation instead of divorce. To qualify, one spouse must meet the residency requirement and assert that the marriage is irretrievably broken or that the parties wish to live separately.
Unlike divorce, legally separated spouses remain married. Legal separation may be appropriate when:
- The parties are unsure about finalizing a divorce
- One spouse wishes to maintain benefits such as insurance coverage
- Religious or personal beliefs discourage divorce
Legal separation agreements still require resolution of custody, support, and property issues. We help clients petition for legal separation and draft comprehensive agreements that protect their interests.an petition for legal separation and help you draft and execute the separation agreement.
Child Custody & Parenting Time
Arizona refers to child custody as:
- Legal decision-making (authority over major decisions)
- Parenting time (physical time spent with the child)
Courts determine custody based on the child’s best interests, considering factors such as:
- The child’s relationship with each parent
- Any history of domestic violence or abuse
- Mental and physical health of all parties
- The child’s wishes (if age-appropriate)
Parents are encouraged to reach agreements, but when disputes arise, the court will intervene.
Child Support
Child support is calculated using Arizona’s statutory guidelines. Factors include:
- Each parent’s income
- Cost of raising the child
- Parenting time allocation
- Other child support obligations
- Transportation costs
We help ensure child support calculations are fair, accurate, and in compliance with state guidelines.
Parental Rights & Paternity
Establishing paternity is often critical in securing custody, visitation, or child support. A man is presumed to be the father if:
- He was married to the mother at conception
- He is listed on the birth certificate
- He legally adopted the child
- He filed a claim as a putative father
- DNA testing confirms paternity (95%+ accuracy)
We represent both mothers and fathers in paternity actions, custody disputes, and termination of parental rights proceedings.
Spousal Maintenance (Alimony)
Spousal maintenance helps one spouse achieve financial stability following divorce. To award maintenance, the court must determine:
- One spouse has financial need
- The other spouse has the ability to pay
Courts evaluate factors including:
- Length of the marriage
- Standard of living during marriage
- Employment history and earning capacity
- Contributions to the other spouse’s career or education
- Age and financial resources of both parties
We advocate for fair and appropriate support arrangements based on your circumstances.
Property Division & Debt Division
Arizona is a community property state. This means:
- Assets acquired during marriage are generally split equally
- Debts incurred during marriage are also divided equally
Disputes often arise over whether property is:
- Marital (community)
- Separate (owned before marriage or after separation, including inheritances and certain gifts)
We work to protect your financial interests and ensure proper classification and division of assets and liabilities.
Mediation & Alternative Dispute Resolution
Many family law disputes can be resolved outside the courtroom through mediation. Mediation allows parties to:
- Maintain greater control over outcomes
- Reduce costs and stress
- Preserve working relationships (especially in co-parenting cases)
- Develop creative, customized solutions
A neutral mediator facilitates discussion but does not make decisions or give legal advice. Our attorneys serve as both mediators and legal counsel for clients participating in mediation.
Additional Family Law Services
Cohen Family Law also handles:
- Adoption
- Domestic violence matters
- Protective orders
- Modifications of prior court orders
- Enforcement of custody or support orders
No matter your family law concern, we provide experienced, strategic representation tailored to your goals.
Hear What Our Clients Have to Say
Contact Our Phoenix Family Law Attorney
Family law matters can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to face them alone. Cohen Family Law is committed to protecting your rights, your children, and your financial future. Whether you are pursuing divorce, custody, support, or mediation, we are here to guide you every step of the way. Call today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward resolution.
FAQs
How long does a divorce take in Arizona?
Arizona requires a minimum 60-day waiting period after filing before a divorce can be finalized. Contested cases may take several months or longer depending on complexity.
Is Arizona a 50/50 custody state?
Arizona courts do not automatically award 50/50 parenting time, but they encourage substantial, meaningful involvement from both parents when it is in the child’s best interests.
Can spousal maintenance be modified?
Yes. Spousal maintenance may be modified if there has been a substantial and continuing change in circumstances, unless the original agreement prohibits modification.
What is considered community property in Arizona?
Generally, assets and debts acquired during the marriage are considered community property and divided equally unless otherwise agreed.
Do I have to go to court for my divorce?
Not necessarily. Many divorces are resolved through negotiation or mediation. However, court intervention may be required if disputes cannot be resolved.
How is child support calculated?
Arizona uses a formula based on income, parenting time, healthcare costs, childcare expenses, and other financial factors.
Cohen Family Law services clients with their family law needs throughout the Phoenix, Arizona area, including Anthem, Chandler, Gilbert, Glendale, Goodyear, Laveen, Mesa, Peoria, Scottsdale, Surprise, and Tempe.
