Civil Protection Orders (CPOs) play a very important role in protecting victims of domestic violence, stalking, or threats in Ohio. The purpose of such an order is to restrict contact between an abuser and a victim, remove abusers from shared accommodation, and provide a safe environment for the victims and their families. However, many people…
Getting a divorce is one of the most stressful events in a person’s life. Property division is one of the most complex and emotionally difficult issues in that process. Many spouses will naturally wonder: “Who gets the house?” In Ohio, property division in a divorce is done according to equitable distribution principles. That means courts…
Court orders, such as custody arrangements, child support, visitation, or restraining orders, are legally binding in Ohio. Failure to comply with a court order can result in stress, conflict, or worse – legal implications. Ohio law provides a clear legal framework for court orders, as well as procedures to enforce them, but the process requires…
Getting a divorce is one of the most disruptive, stressful and complicated events in life. The situation becomes even more complex if there are significant retirement savings or a business involved in the equation. People’s main concern during a divorce is how to best protect these assets. In this article, we will discuss what the…
Living with domestic violence can make you feel trapped and uncertain about where to turn. No one should have to feel unsafe in their own home or in their daily life. Ohio law recognizes this and provides a way for victims to seek protection through a Civil Protection Order (CPO). A CPO is not a…
Prenuptial agreements, commonly called “prenups,” are legal contracts couples enter into before marriage to outline how assets, debts, and spousal support will be handled if the marriage ends. While they’re often associated with wealthy individuals or celebrities, prenuptial agreements can be useful for anyone seeking clarity and protection. However, not all prenups hold up in…
Divorce isn’t just the end of a relationship. It’s the start of major life changes, especially when it comes to finances. One of the most emotional and confusing parts of the process is dividing what you built together. Whether it’s a home, a retirement account, or even debt, the question becomes: What’s fair? If you’re…
Ending a marriage is never just a legal decision. It’s emotional, often painful, and deeply personal. Whether the split is mutual or one-sided, you’re stepping into unfamiliar territory, and the choices you make early on can shape the road ahead. One of the first legal questions you’ll face in an Ohio divorce is whether to…
Welcome to the official website of Attorney David Shook—your trusted Toledo lawyer for family law, criminal defense, and protective orders. With over 30 years of legal experience, our firm is committed to helping individuals and families across Northwest Ohio navigate challenging legal situations with clarity and confidence. Whether you need a family law attorney in the…