About Cordell & Cordell — divorce Dublin Ohio
Cordell & Cordell provides divorce Dublin Ohio residents and those across Franklin County depend on for contested custody battles, complex asset division, and family law matters handled by attorneys who specialize in these proceedings. Operating from their Emerald Parkway office in Dublin, the firm’s Columbus-area attorneys — including Eric Wead and Melinda Kaufman — bring focused family law expertise to clients who need an advocate that will stay the course through emotionally demanding and legally complex proceedings. Clients in the Dublin and Columbus area describe Cordell & Cordell attorneys as responsive, thorough, and genuinely committed to achieving the outcomes their clients need. Both Eric Wead and Melinda Kaufman are named across multiple reviews for their consistent advocacy and strong communication throughout long-running cases.
The firm is known nationally for representing clients in divorce and family law, with a particular reputation for handling cases where one party may otherwise be disadvantaged. The Dublin office has developed a strong local following through results, with several clients retaining the same attorney across multiple proceedings spanning years.
What Clients Say
Eric Wead is praised across multiple reviews for his responsiveness, strategic guidance, and ability to deliver favorable outcomes in both custody and divorce matters, including complex cases involving self-employed spouses and disputed financials. Melinda Kaufman draws consistent praise for her tenacity, professionalism, and ability to stay “one step ahead” of developments, never backing down in difficult negotiations. Multiple clients describe returning to the same attorney for second matters after successful first outcomes, reflecting deep trust built through results. One isolated negative review regarding attorney conduct is in the minority of the overall feedback pattern.
divorce Dublin — Practice Areas & Services
- Contested and uncontested divorce in Franklin County courts
- Child custody and shared parenting plan negotiations
- Asset division including business interests and retirement accounts
- Child support establishment and modification
- Spousal support and alimony matters
- Post-decree modifications and enforcement
Frequently Asked Questions
How is marital property divided in an Ohio divorce?
Ohio is an equitable distribution state, meaning courts divide marital property fairly but not necessarily equally. Courts consider factors such as the length of the marriage, each spouse’s economic circumstances, contributions to marital assets (including homemaking), and tax consequences. Separate property — assets owned before marriage or received as gifts or inheritance during the marriage — is generally excluded from division. An experienced attorney can help identify, value, and advocate for equitable treatment of complex assets.
What is shared parenting in Ohio and how is it different from custody?
Ohio uses the term “shared parenting” for arrangements where both parents share in the rights and responsibilities of raising their children. This is different from a sole residential parent arrangement where one parent has primary custody. A shared parenting plan must be approved by the court and can be filed by either or both parents. Franklin County courts evaluate shared parenting proposals based on the best interests of the child, including each parent’s cooperation ability and proximity.
How long does a contested divorce take in Franklin County, Ohio?
Uncontested Ohio divorces can be finalized in 30 to 90 days. Contested divorces involving children, substantial assets, or disputed facts routinely take six months to two years in Franklin County courts. Complex financial discovery, custody evaluations, and contested hearings all extend timelines. Retaining experienced counsel early helps manage the process and avoid unnecessary procedural delays.
Quick Facts: Divorce in Dublin, Ohio
- Ohio Equitable Distribution: Ohio divides marital property equitably (not equally) in divorce, with courts weighing multiple factors to reach a fair result — Ohio Revised Code §3105.171
- Franklin County Family Court: Franklin County Domestic Relations Court handles all divorce, custody, and support matters for Dublin residents, one of Ohio’s busiest family courts — Franklin County Court of Common Pleas
- Ohio Divorce Filing Fee: Filing fees for divorce in Ohio vary by county but typically range from $150–$300, with additional costs for service and hearings — Ohio Court System
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