Divorce can be overwhelming, and one of the most critical yet often misunderstood stages is discovery. Whether you’re addressing property division, child custody, or support issues, discovery plays a key role in ensuring a fair and transparent outcome. Understanding this process—and preparing effectively—can make a significant difference in your case. What Is Discovery…
Going through a divorce can be an emotional and complex process, and the first preliminary hearing in Indiana is often one of the earliest steps in that journey. Understanding what happens at this hearing can ease anxiety and help you prepare effectively. What Is a Preliminary Hearing in an Indiana…
At Harshman Ponist Smith & Rayl, LLC, we believe fairness isn’t just an ideal — it’s a responsibility. Whether the case involves family law, criminal defense, or a complex civil dispute, our attorneys approach every courtroom with one goal: to make sure the people we represent are treated justly, heard…
Divorce is often an emotionally and financially draining process, but mediation offers a constructive alternative to traditional litigation, especially in Indiana where family law encourages cooperative solutions. Mediation involves a neutral third party who facilitates discussions between divorcing spouses to reach mutually agreeable solutions on issues like custody, property division, and support.…
Guardianship cases are never just about legal paperwork. They’re about people — parents who raised us, loved ones who’ve fallen ill, or children who need protection when life takes an unexpected turn. At Harshman Ponist Smith & Rayl, LLC, we never lose sight of that human story. More Than Legal…
What is Termination of Parental Rights? Termination of parental rights (TPR) permanently ends the legal relationship between a parent and child, eliminating rights to custody, visitation, decision-making, and sometimes child support obligations. TPR can be voluntary (parent-initiated) or involuntary (court-ordered) and is a serious step taken only when necessary to protect…
Most people don’t wake up thinking about estate planning. It’s one of those subjects that sits quietly in the background — easy to postpone until life reminds us how unpredictable it can be. But at Harshman Ponist Smith & Rayl, LLC, we’ve seen firsthand how much peace of mind comes…
Divorce is never easy, but understanding the type of divorce you’re facing can help you prepare emotionally, legally, and financially. One of the first distinctions in the process is whether your case is contested or uncontested. Knowing the difference can guide your next steps. Uncontested Divorce An uncontested divorce occurs when both…
Divorce and separation are challenging, especially for children. A common question during custody disputes is whether a child can choose which parent to live with. In Indiana, the answer depends on the child’s age, maturity, and state law. Here’s a concise overview of how Indiana courts handle this, always prioritizing…
When someone you love can no longer make safe or sound decisions about their care, the situation can feel overwhelming. At Harshman Ponist Smith & Rayl, LLC, we help families across Indiana navigate the guardianship process with clarity, compassion, and capable legal guidance. Understanding When Guardianship Is Needed Our firm…