April 23, 2020 | Child Custody, COVID-19, Divorce, Family Law

The COVID-19 outbreak has had an impact not only on global health – the pandemic also is likely to have far reaching implications on society as a whole. There is no doubt that the coronavirus has changed our lives, possibly for years to come. 

The pandemic and its overall impact on our physical, financial, and mental health as well as its eventual duration is all unpredictable at the moment. That being said, this uncertain time of quarantine and isolation has given many of us time to reflect on our lives and think about our needs, including things we’d like to change. For some, those changes might include leaving an unhappy marriage. 

Omaha Divorce Lawyer 

Divorcing your husband or wife is an important decision, especially if you have children. It can be incredibly stressful and complicated. Even so, it’s often worth it if you want a fresh start and an overall happier, healthier life. That’s why it’s crucial to have the experienced Omaha divorce attorneys at High & Younes on your side every step of the way. We have years of experience in all facets of family law, from divorce to child support to custody to protection orders. Give us a call at 402.933.3345 or fill out our confidential contact form here. 

Coronavirus and Divorce 

Google “COVID-19 and Divorce” and you’ll note the hundreds of thousands of articles and reports that surface. Clearly the significance the virus will have on spousal relationships is on our minds as couples – many who might normally distract themselves with work, friends, and children – find themselves cooped up together in a restricted space. They are confronted with their issues head on, all day every day, with no end in sight. 

According to the Boston Globe, cities in China have reported a surge in divorce filings after several months of quarantine. Experts speculate the U.S. could see the same rise if the pandemic goes on much longer. At the same time, financial worries over jobs and the economy could make couples feel they can’t afford to split until the dust settles and things get back to normal. 

Start the Divorce Process Sooner Rather Than Later 

If you feel as though your marriage is a lost cause – if you’ve tried everything to make it work and are still fighting or simply feel unfulfilled and unhappy – you can begin the process now despite the COVID-19 situation and its upheaval of daily life. 

Divorces take time, especially if you and your spouse have kids. Motions and petitions are a process that must be dealt with carefully by an experienced lawyer. If the courts close due to a shelter-in-place order or another virus-related reason, video conferencing and technology can possibly assist in keeping the divorce process moving forward. 

If you want out of your marriage, now is a good time to get the process started. Even though the courts may close, paperwork can be filled out and filings completed so you will have taken the most important first steps. Call the Omaha family law attorneys at High & Younes today at 402.933.3345. 

We are still here despite the quarantine, and are available to speak to you via phone or video conference. Our divorce lawyers are compassionate, understanding, and knowledgeable about family law. We will fight for you to bring about the best outcome possible for you and your family. If finances are a concern, we will advise you on that too. 

For example, you and your spouse likely own property together, as well as share investments and retirement accounts. Those must be divided up in any divorce. The coronavirus may have caused you both to rack up more debt if your employment and pay have been affected. Those debts will need to be settled up, as will your assets. But both can be done in a way you are comfortable with, even if you have concerns over your career and financial future. 

No matter what, your life matters. Your happiness matters. You matter. Consider taking steps now. We’re here to help when you’re ready. 

About High & Younes’ Family Law Division 

Sometimes, families need help. The Omaha family law and divorce attorneys at High & Younes are highly-respected for their honesty, integrity, and abilities. A family law case –  a divorce or child custody dispute, for example – case can have a lasting impact on your family, your emotions, and your finances. Our family law team will give you and your case the dedication and attention necessary to obtain a fair, just, and satisfying result. Call 402.933.3345 or fill out our confidential contact form here. You also can reach out via live chat on our home page. 

Leigha Wichelt has seen firsthand the negative effects on families who lack strong, compassionate legal representation. Prior to joining High & Younes, Leigha worked within the Douglas County Juvenile Court system; as a volunteer Court Appointed Special Advocate for Children; and as a Child Youth and Families Services Specialist for Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services.

Because of that, Leigha understands that in many cases, parenting is at the heart of the court system when it comes to family law matters. She testifies on child support collection reform before the Nebraska Legislature. And, Leigha is a mother herself.

For years, people told Leigha that her passion for helping families would make her a great lawyer. So, she became one.

Leigha is a Family Law attorney for High & Younes, focusing on Divorce, Adoption, Child Custody, and Decree Modification. She also is starting a pro bono clinic for veterans. Email Leigha at leigha@hyattorneys.com.

Frank Younes has recovered millions of dollars of compensation in his work seeking justice for injured parties and the families of those who have lost their lives to the wrongful acts of others. He has spent his career honing his craft in expressing the stories of his clients with passion in order to achieve the utmost compensation available to them under the law. Frank has successfully prosecuted wrongful death claims against the federal government, governmental entities, individuals, and school districts amongst others.

Recently, Frank obtained one of his injured clients – the victim of a shooting – a jury verdict in the amount of $923,000 in Douglas County District Court. Frank has received many accolades and awards for his work including: 10 Best Attorneys – High Verdicts & Settlement Winner by the American Institute of Personal Injury Attorneys; Attorneys and Practice Magazine’s Top 10 Personal Injury Attorney; Lawyers of Distinction Award winner; Super Lawyers Rising Star; Client’s Choice Award by Avvo; and American Academy of Attorneys’ Top 40 Under 40. He is a member of the Nebraska Association of Trial Attorneys, American Association for Justice, American Bar Association, Nebraska State Bar Association, and was elected to be an Attorney Member of the Nebraska Supreme Court Judicial Nominating Commission for the Fourth Judicial District. Email him at frank@hyattorneys.com.