Best Divorce Lawyers Springfield mo
Dylan A. Driskell
Divorce Lawyers
Dylan Driskell handles divorce, custody, guardianship, and adoption cases for Ozarks Family Law, LLC. He represents clients in divorce and custody actions, and acts as Guardian ad Litem for children involved in family and probate cases. Dylan has represented clients on both sides of ex parte orders of protection, and routinely handles cases that involve combinations of multiple pending cases. Dylan currently represents families and their legal needs in Greene, Webster, and Christian County.
Dylan is native of Southwest Missouri where he attended and graduated with honors from Logan-Rogersville High School in 2007. Throughout his high school days, Dylan was involved with his local community as a volunteer fire fighter and first responder with the Logan-Rogersville Fire Department. After high school, Dylan attended Drury University in Springfield, Missouri where he earned a bachelor’s degree in the areas of Psychology and Criminology. While at Drury University, Dylan served as Parliamentarian as part of his duties with his fraternity, Kappa Alpha Order; which also included during philanthropic work with the Muscular Dystrophy Association.
Dylan received his Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Law in 2015, where he graduated with an emphasis in child and family law. Dylan became a licensed attorney that same year after sitting for and passing the Missouri Bar Exam. While in law school, Dylan was involved in both the Family Law and the Guardian ad Litem clinics, which assisted families in the Kansas City Metropolitan area with legal representation.
David N. Shuler
Divorce Lawyers
Attorney David Shuler is a native Missourian. Upon graduation from Drury University and the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Law, David began to broaden his professional background. After working under the Honorable John Parrish as a law clerk, David became a prosecutor for Greene County, Missouri.
The Shuler Law Firm, LLC, was created in an effort to provide the Greater Springfield community and Fort Leonard Wood military personnel with experienced and effective legal representation. We truly enjoy working with our clients and continually strive to create positive resolutions to their legal problems.
Bar Admissions
- Missouri, 1992
- U.S. District Court Eastern District of Missouri, 1992
- U.S. District Court Western District of Missouri, 1992
Education
- Drury University
- University of Missouri-Columbia School of Law
Summer Masterson-Goethals
Divorce Lawyers
As a former legal aid attorney, I believe every client should have access to quality legal representation at a reasonable price. Clients of Masterson Law aren’t just another file. When you call me, you wont get re-routed to a paralegal. I take calls and return calls timely. I work my clients to accomplish their goals efficiently, effectively, and with as little financial strain as possible. Hiring a lawyer is never inexpensive, but Masterson Law will work with you to find a litigation plan that works within your budget. People are afraid of huge legal bills – I work to ensure my client’s don’t have to suffer devastating litigation costs. I offer flat fee pricing for many types of cases, from domestic to criminal.
I have been a member of National Association of Consumer Attorneys (NACA) since I began practicing law. My commitment to consumer protection is evidenced by a solid track record. I have litigated cases involving auto fraud, wrongful repossession, no-title purchases, “Buy Here-Pay Here” lot problems, preditory lending practices by payday and small loan companies, debt collection harassment, Truth in Lending, Rent-to-Own contracts, wrongful garnishment, and fraudulent and unfair business practices.
I worked as an intern at the Federal Defender’s office for the Western District of Missouri. In private practice, I’ve assisted on a murder trial, as well as represented clients facing serious felony criminal cases.
I am an academically published writer for the Missouri Bar on the topic of discovery. I have spoken as a continuing legal education speaker for the Missouri Bar, local bar associations, and private groups.
ANN LITTELL MILLS
Divorce Lawyers
I believe in preparing my cases for trial, but I know settlement is not weakness. It is an informed decision made by the client, weighing all aspects of the case and their individual situation in life. It allows the client to retain control over their destinies. Sometimes, an agreement cannot be reached. When the points of view are just too far apart, it is time to assemble all of your ammunition, and go to trial.
Education:
- Central Missouri State University, 1994, magna cum laude in history
- University of Nebraska, J.D., 1997 with distinction. Member of Nebraska National Moot Court Team. Order of the Barristers
Professional Affiliations:
- Missouri Bar Association
- Springfield Metropolitan Bar Association
- Admitted to practice in the state of Missouri and Federal bar of Missouri.
- 2012-2013 President of Habitat for Humanity of Greater Springfield, Missouri.
- Presenter at Solo and Small Firm Conference on multiple occasions.
- Member of the Board of Aldermen for the City of Fremont Hills (2016-2020)
- Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT 200) with Yoga Alliance
F. Richard "Rick" Van Pelt
Divorce Lawyers
F. Richard “Rick” Van Pelt is one of the 100 Diplomates of the American College of Family Trial Lawyers in the United States. He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers. He has been listed in the directory “Best Lawyers in America – Family Law” each year since 2001. He was named the Springfield, Missouri “Lawyer of the Year for Family Law” by the publication Best Lawyers in America in 2022 and 2014.
The firm and our staff provide services in the area of family law, including cases that involve substantial assets and income. We provide representation in family law matters including divorce, settlement negotiations, mediations, trial practice, modifications, paternity, business divisions, prenuptial agreements, and adoptions. We strive to provide individual attention and service to our clients and to work toward a settlement, if possible. We utilize mediation. We are also prepared to try your case if that is required. Our goal is to provide quality legal service and counsel to you.
F. Richard “Rick” Van Pelt, in addition to traditional representation and trial services, will now offer mediation services as a mediator. Rick received his mediation training from the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers in Chicago, Illinois, from some of the best family law mediators in the United States. He is ready to assist you in mediating a resolution to your case.
JOSEPH J. PIATCHEK
Divorce Lawyers
Hello, and welcome to Affordable Legal Services, a special division of the Piatchek Law Firm that provides legal assistance throughout Missouri at reasonable, flat rates. But first, let me tell you just a couple of quick things about myself. I have spent my entire life in Missouri, and have degrees in both Psychology and Law from the University of Missouri. After graduating, my first job was at a mental hospital for children, working mostly with adolescents who were suffering from various forms of mental illness, abuse, and neglect. I saw a lot of things there that both shocked and saddened me. However, helping these children, in the small ways I could, was very rewarding.
Later, I became a social worker and case manager for senior adults with mental illness. Working with senior adults was a lot more difficult, and I started to see some patterns emerging. I learned that it’s easier to address problems before, or shortly after, they arise; it seems like the longer you leave a problem unaddressed, the worse it can become. Some of these adults had been living with the same persistent problems for their entire lives, since they were children. Meanwhile, there were others who sought treatment when they were younger, and were to change. What was the difference? Many times, it was as simple as having access to help.
Peter G. Bender
Divorce Lawyers
Pete Bender has represented thousands of clients in State and Federal Courts, and before administrative agencies, including the IRS and the Division of Workers Compensation. Pete Bender has an extensive and successful trial record, participating in over 50 jury trials, more than 25 of which as lead counsel. Pete Bender’s jury trials range from multi-million dollar tax trials, to serious criminal cases, including sex cases and murder, to personal injury and DWI. Pete Bender has also handled hundreds of contested hearings before Judges and Administrative Law Judges at the Division of Worker’s Compensation. As a result of his experience, Pete Bender is often able to negotiate a better than satisfactory resolution for his client, without incurring the risk and expense of a contested hearing or trial.
Pete Bender earned his law degree (J.D.) from the University of Missouri at Kansas City in 1994 and his master’s degree in tax law (L.L.M.) from Washington University in 1995. He worked his way through college serving as an investigator, process server, and runner for law firms. In Law School, Pete Bender contributed research to several tax publications, and prepared tax returns for individuals, estates and businesses.
Pete Bender is a graduate of Springfield’s Glendale High School and Missouri State University, and has lived in Missouri since 1972. He enjoys outdoor activities like camping and canoeing in our beautiful Ozarks.
Gary Collins
Divorce Lawyers
Gary L. Collins is a long time Springfield resident. His family owns a local restaurant that is a staple of the community. He is a graduate of Kickapoo High School. He studied Political Science and International Relations at Missouri State University, graduating in 1997.
After college, he contemplated a master’s degree in international relations but ultimately was called to his passion for law. He attended the University of Missouri at Kansas City School of Law, where he graduated near the top of his class, earning various awards in Property Law. He was an editorial member of the Urban Law Journal.
After graduation he worked at the Missouri Public Defender’s office, where he was able to try multiple cases from misdemeanor charges all the way up to more serious felonies. He eventually moved to private practice where he concentrated on representing individuals in a wide variety of practice areas including family law, civil law, criminal defense, and juvenile law.
Practice Areas
- Juvenile Law 60%
- Criminal Defense 20%
- Family Law 20%
Bar Admissions
- Missouri, 2002
- U.S. Court of Appeals 8th Circuit, 2002
- U.S. District Court Western District of Missouri, 2002
Professional Associations
- Missouri Bar Association, Member, 2002 to Present
Education
- University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Law, Kansas City, Missouri
- J.D.
- Missouri State University, Springfield, Missouri
- B.S. – 1997
- Honors: Dean’s List
- Major: Political Science, International Relations
Hiring the best divorce lawyer in Springfield, Missouri, can provide several advantages when going through a divorce. Here are some benefits of having a skilled divorce attorney on your side:
Legal Expertise: A top divorce lawyer in Springfield will have a deep understanding of Missouri’s divorce laws and regulations, ensuring that your case is handled in compliance with state statutes and procedures.
Objective Advice: Divorce is often emotionally charged, making it difficult to make rational decisions. A divorce lawyer can provide you with objective advice and help you make informed choices about important matters such as property division, alimony, child custody, and child support.
Negotiation Skills: Many divorce cases are resolved through negotiation and settlement rather than going to court. An experienced attorney can negotiate effectively on your behalf to reach a fair and favorable settlement with your spouse, potentially saving you time, money, and emotional stress.
Legal Documentation: Divorce involves a significant amount of paperwork, including legal documents and court filings. A top divorce lawyer will ensure that all necessary documentation is prepared accurately and submitted on time to avoid delays or complications.
Court Representation: If your divorce case does go to court, having a skilled attorney by your side can be invaluable. They will represent your interests effectively before a judge, present your case persuasively, cross-examine witnesses, and advocate for your rights.
Asset Protection: If you have substantial assets or complex financial holdings, a divorce lawyer can help ensure that your property and financial interests are protected during the divorce process.
Child Custody and Support: If you have children, a top divorce lawyer will work diligently to secure a fair custody arrangement and child support agreement that is in the best interests of your children.
Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution: Some divorces can be resolved through mediation or alternative dispute resolution methods. A knowledgeable attorney can represent you during these processes and help you reach a mutually acceptable agreement with your spouse.
Post-Divorce Issues: Even after the divorce is finalized, there may be post-divorce issues that arise, such as modification of custody or support orders. Having a trusted attorney can be helpful in addressing these ongoing legal matters.
Emotional Support: Going through a divorce is emotionally challenging. A good divorce lawyer can provide not only legal guidance but also emotional support, helping you cope with the stress and uncertainty of the process.
Ultimately, the “best” divorce lawyer for you will depend on your unique circumstances, so it’s crucial to consult with several attorneys, ask questions, and choose the one you believe will best represent your interests throughout the divorce process in Springfield or any other location.