Danville Divorce Lawyer & Family Law Attorney Stephanie Renner
Serving Danville, Plainfield, Avon, Brownsburg, Amo, Clayton, Coatesville, Lizton, North Salem, Pittsboro, Stilesville & Hendricks County, Indiana
Free Consultation Affordable Divorce Attorney
317-771-8535
When facing a divorce or family law issue in Hendricks County, Indiana, you need an attorney who combines legal expertise with genuine compassion. Stephanie Renner offers personalized, affordable, and effective representation for clients navigating life’s toughest transitions. Specializing in divorce and a wide range of family law matters, Stephanie is committed to helping Hendricks County residents find clarity and resolution. Contact attorney Renner today at 317-771-8535 or [email protected] for a free consultation and discover how she can support you in moving forward with a brighter future. Call our office if you have questions for a divorce lawyer about Indiana Divorce Law, Child Custody, Parenting Time, Child Support, Spousal Support, Alimony, Division of Marital Property, Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements, Paternity Cases, Domestic Violence and Protective Orders, Legal Separation, Adoption and Guardianship, Post-Divorce Modifications, Relocation or Move-Away Cases, Parenting Plans, Annulment, Emancipation of Minors, or Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution.
Stephanie Renner – Hendricks County, Indiana Divorce Lawyer & Family Law Attorney
About Divorce Lawyer Stephanie Renner
Divorce and Family Law Courts in Hendricks County, Indiana
Understanding the Divorce Process in Indiana
Spousal Maintenance (Alimony) in Indiana
Child Custody and Parenting Time under Indiana Law
Child Support under Indiana Law
Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements under Indiana Law
Domestic Violence and Protective Orders under Indiana Law
Modifications and Enforcement under Indiana Law
Why Choose Family Law Attorney Stephanie Renner in Indiana?
Contact Divorce Attorney Stephanie Renner Today
About Divorce Lawyer Stephanie Renner
Stephanie Renner is more than just an Indiana divorce attorney—she’s a trusted advocate for families throughout Hendricks County and beyond. Stephanie has built a thriving practice rooted in her deep understanding of Indiana law and her dedication to her clients. Her professional journey includes significant experience under Judge Joven in the Marion Superior Court, where she gained invaluable insight into the judicial process, followed by five years at J. Edgar Law Offices, sharpening her skills in litigation and client representation.
A proud graduate of Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law and Butler University, Stephanie brings a strong academic foundation to her practice. Her areas of expertise include divorce, criminal defense, expungement law, and school expulsion law. This unique blend of skills allows her to address the complex intersections of family law and past legal issues that can arise during divorce proceedings.
Stephanie’s approach is client-centered and accessible. She offers affordable and flexible payment options, including Buy Now Pay Later plans, ensuring that financial constraints don’t prevent Hendricks County residents from securing top-tier legal help. Known for her warm personality, Stephanie creates a welcoming environment for clients. With a track record of handling everything from straightforward uncontested divorces to high-stakes federal sentencing cases, Stephanie Renner is equipped to tackle any family law challenge you bring her way.
Divorce and Family Law Courts in Hendricks County, Indiana
Hendricks County, Indiana, located just west of Indianapolis, is home to a well-organized judicial system that handles divorce and family law matters with efficiency and care. The county’s court system is designed to address a variety of legal issues, including divorce, child custody, child support, spousal support, and other family-related disputes. These cases are primarily managed through the Hendricks County Courts, which consist of a combination of Circuit and Superior Courts. As of March 30, 2025, Hendricks County operates a total of five courts that collectively oversee family law and divorce proceedings, ensuring residents have access to justice in their local community.
The Hendricks County judicial system includes one Circuit Court and four Superior Courts. The Circuit Court, known as the Hendricks Circuit Court, serves as the primary court of general jurisdiction in the county, handling a wide range of cases, including divorce and family law matters. The Superior Courts—labeled Hendricks Superior Court No. 1, No. 2, No. 3, and No. 4—also play a significant role in family law cases, often taking on smaller or more specialized matters such as uncontested divorces, child support modifications, or protective orders. Each court is staffed with judges and support personnel who are experienced in navigating the complexities of family law, ensuring that cases are resolved fairly and in accordance with Indiana state law.
All five courts are conveniently located in the county seat of Danville, a charming small town that serves as the administrative hub of Hendricks County. The Hendricks County Courthouse, situated at 51 W Main St, Danville, IN 46122, houses these courts under one roof, making it a central location for residents seeking legal recourse in family matters. The courthouse operates Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., providing ample opportunity for individuals to file paperwork, attend hearings, or seek assistance from the Clerk’s Office, which maintains records for all county-level court cases. This centralized location simplifies the process for residents, eliminating the need to travel to multiple facilities for different aspects of their case.
Divorce and family law proceedings in Hendricks County follow Indiana’s legal framework, which allows for both no-fault and fault-based divorces. A no-fault divorce, based on an “irretrievable breakdown” of the marriage, is the most common type filed in these courts. Fault-based divorces, though less frequent, may involve allegations of adultery, abandonment, or other specific grounds. The courts also handle related issues such as property division, which depends on Indiana’s equitable distribution laws rather than a community property system, meaning assets are divided fairly but not necessarily equally. Child custody and support decisions prioritize the best interests of the child, with judges often encouraging mediation to resolve disputes amicably before proceeding to trial.
Hendricks County’s population has grown significantly in recent years, making it one of the fastest-growing counties in Indiana. This growth has increased the demand for family law services, particularly in its larger cities and towns. Beyond Danville, notable communities in Hendricks County include Brownsburg, Avon, and Plainfield, all of which are considered sizable urban centers within the county. Brownsburg, located northwest of Indianapolis, is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and highly rated schools, making it a common residence for families navigating divorce or custody issues. Avon, to the southwest, has seen rapid development and is a hub for suburban living, with many residents commuting to Indianapolis for work. Plainfield, near the county’s eastern border, boasts a bustling commercial scene and proximity to the Indianapolis International Airport, attracting a diverse population that occasionally requires family law interventions.
These cities—Brownsburg, Avon, and Plainfield—do not have their own standalone courthouses for divorce and family law cases. Instead, residents from these areas must travel to the Hendricks County Courthouse in Danville for court proceedings. The distance is relatively short, with Brownsburg approximately 10 miles northeast of Danville, Avon about 8 miles southeast, and Plainfield around 12 miles southeast. This centralized system ensures consistency in how cases are processed, though it may require some planning for those living in these outlying areas. The county’s website provides resources, such as directions to the courthouse and online access to case information through mycase.in.gov, to assist residents in managing their legal needs.
The courts in Hendricks County are equipped to handle both contested and uncontested divorce cases. In an uncontested divorce, where spouses agree on all terms, the process can be relatively quick, often finalized within a few months. Contested cases, involving disputes over assets, custody, or support, may require multiple hearings and could extend over a year, depending on the complexity. The Superior Courts often handle smaller family law matters, such as modifications to existing orders, while the Circuit Court takes on more intricate cases, including those requiring extensive litigation. Mediation services are also available, reflecting the county’s commitment to reducing conflict and court backlogs.
For residents of Brownsburg, Avon, Plainfield, and smaller communities like Pittsboro or Lizton, the Hendricks County Courts provide a vital service in maintaining family stability during challenging times. The courthouse’s location in Danville is easily accessible via major roads like U.S. Route 36 and State Road 267, and parking is available for those attending hearings. The Clerk’s Office, also located in the courthouse, offers support for filing divorce petitions, paying court fees, or obtaining copies of court documents, making it a one-stop shop for legal needs.
In summary, Hendricks County, Indiana, operates five courts—one Circuit Court and four Superior Courts—all housed in the Hendricks County Courthouse in Danville at 51 W Main St. These courts efficiently manage divorce and family law cases for the county’s growing population, including residents of larger cities like Brownsburg, Avon, and Plainfield. Whether you’re filing for divorce, seeking custody arrangements, or modifying support orders, the Hendricks County judicial system provides a structured and accessible framework to address your needs, rooted in a commitment to fairness and community well-being.
Divorce Law in Indiana
Divorce is a life-altering event, and in Indiana, it’s legally termed a “dissolution of marriage.” As a no-fault divorce state, Indiana doesn’t require proof of infidelity or abuse to end a marriage—filing on the grounds of an “irretrievable breakdown” is sufficient. For Hendricks County residents, Stephanie Renner provides expert guidance through every phase of this process, ensuring your rights and interests are protected in the Hendricks County Circuit Court or Superior Court.
Understanding the Divorce Process in Indiana
To initiate a divorce in Hendricks County, Indiana law mandates that at least one spouse has been a state resident for six months and a Hendricks County resident for three months prior to filing. The process begins with submitting a petition to the court, followed by a mandatory 60-day waiting period—a “cooling-off” phase designed to give couples time to reconsider or negotiate terms. During this period, Stephanie Renner works diligently to prepare your case, whether it’s gathering financial documents, drafting settlement proposals, or addressing urgent issues like temporary custody or support orders.
Divorces in Hendricks County can take two paths: uncontested or contested. An uncontested divorce occurs when both spouses agree on all terms—property division, custody, support—allowing for a faster, less expensive resolution. Stephanie offers affordable services for uncontested divorces, starting at competitive rates, making this option accessible for clients seeking an amicable split. Contested divorces, however, involve disputes that may require mediation or litigation. With her litigation experience, Stephanie excels at representing clients in court, advocating for fair outcomes when negotiations break down.
For example, imagine a Hendricks County couple where one spouse owns a business started during the marriage. Disagreement over its valuation could escalate into a contested divorce. Stephanie’s meticulous approach ensures that experts are consulted, assets are properly assessed, and her client’s contributions to the business are recognized by the court.
Property Division in Divorce
Indiana adheres to an “equitable distribution” standard for dividing marital property, meaning assets and debts are split fairly but not always equally. Marital property includes anything acquired during the marriage—homes, cars, bank accounts, even credit card debt—while separate property (pre-marital assets, gifts, or inheritances) typically remains with its original owner unless it’s been commingled with marital funds.
Stephanie Renner’s expertise shines in unraveling complex property division cases. She can collaborate with financial experts to value pensions, 401(k)s, and real estate, ensuring no asset is overlooked. Stephanie can help with cases involving hidden assets, such as a spouse transferring funds to a secret account. Her thorough investigation and negotiation skills help clients secure their rightful share, safeguarding their financial stability post-divorce.
Consider a scenario where one spouse claims a family heirloom as separate property, but the other argues it was used as collateral for a marital loan. Stephanie’s ability to dissect these nuances ensures the court receives a clear, evidence-based picture, leading to equitable rulings.
Spousal Maintenance (Alimony) in Indiana
Spousal maintenance isn’t automatic in Indiana divorces, but it’s available in specific circumstances. Courts may award it if one spouse is incapacitated and unable to work, needs support while caring for a disabled child, or requires temporary assistance to transition to financial independence—known as “rehabilitative maintenance.” This last type is capped at three years unless exceptional circumstances justify a longer term.
In Hendricks County, Stephanie Renner evaluates each case to determine if maintenance is warranted. For instance, if one client paused a career to raise children while the spouse climbed the corporate ladder, this might justify rehabilitative maintenance, allowing the client time to reenter the workforce with updated skills. Conversely, Stephanie can defend clients against excessive maintenance demands, ensuring payments align with Indiana law and the paying spouse’s ability.
Her background in complex financial litigation aids in presenting detailed income analyses, uncovering discrepancies like unreported bonuses or side businesses that could affect maintenance calculations. Whether you’re seeking support or challenging a claim, Stephanie ensures your voice is heard in Hendricks County courts.
Child Custody and Parenting Time under Indiana Law
Child custody disputes can be the most contentious part of a divorce, and Indiana law prioritizes the “best interests of the child.” Legal custody determines who makes decisions about education, healthcare, and religion, while physical custody dictates where the child resides. Joint custody is common, but sole custody may be awarded if one parent’s behavior—such as substance abuse or neglect—jeopardizes the child’s well-being.
Stephanie Renner approaches custody cases with sensitivity and strategy. She helps Hendricks County parents develop parenting plans that balance each parent’s involvement with the child’s need for consistency. For example, if one parent seeks joint custody while the other spouse plans to relocate from to another state, Stephanie can highlight the stable home environment and active role in the child’s life in order to secure a favorable parenting time arrangement.
When disputes arise post-divorce, such as one parent denying visitation, Stephanie pursues enforcement actions or modifications to existing orders. Her goal is to minimize conflict while ensuring children maintain strong relationships with both parents whenever possible.
Child Support under Indiana Law
Indiana’s child support guidelines calculate payments based on both parents’ gross incomes, the number of children, and expenses like health insurance, daycare, and extracurricular activities. In Hendricks County, where costs of living can vary between urban and suburban areas, Stephanie ensures these factors are accurately reflected in support orders.
She also handles complex cases, such as when a self-employed parent underreports income or a child has extraordinary medical needs requiring additional support. For example, Stephanie could represent a mother whose ex-husband claimed a reduced income after quitting his job to avoid higher payments. Through discovery, she might discover that the husband had a new “consulting gig”, leading to a fair support adjustment. Whether you’re seeking support or defending against an unfair obligation, Stephanie’s attention to detail delivers results.
Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements under Indiana Law
Prenuptial agreements, signed before marriage, and postnuptial agreements, created during marriage, can streamline divorce proceedings by predefining property division and support terms. In Hendricks County’s diverse community these agreements are increasingly popular for protecting assets like businesses, inheritances, or real estate.
Stephanie Renner guides clients through drafting agreements that comply with Indiana law, which requires full disclosure and voluntary consent. She also reviews existing contracts to ensure enforceability, addressing issues like vague language or coercion that could render them invalid. For example, she might help a client enforce a prenup that preserved her family farm, despite her ex-husband’s claim it was outdated. Stephanie’s proactive counsel offers peace of mind, whether you’re planning a marriage or safeguarding your current one. For more details about prenuptial agreements, click here.
Domestic Violence and Protective Orders under Indiana Law
Divorce can expose or escalate domestic violence, impacting custody, property, and personal safety. Indiana law allows victims to request protective orders, barring an abusive spouse from contact and potentially their shared home. Violations carry criminal penalties, providing a strong deterrent.
Stephanie Renner supports Hendricks County clients by filing for protective orders and integrating these concerns into divorce proceedings if needed. Her criminal defense experience enhances her ability to address false allegations, ensuring fair treatment for all parties. For instance, she could help a mother secure a protective order and sole custody after documenting her ex-spouse’s threatening behavior, all while expediting the divorce to minimize her client’s exposure to risk.
Modifications and Enforcement under Indiana Law
Post-divorce life isn’t static—job changes, remarriages, or relocations can necessitate updates to custody, support, or maintenance orders. In Hendricks County, Stephanie Renner handles modification petitions, proving “substantial and continuing” changes in circumstances to justify adjustments. She also pursues enforcement when an ex-spouse fails to comply, such as withholding child support or violating parenting time schedules.
Take the case of a father who lost his job and couldn’t afford his original support amount. Stephanie would petition for a temporary reduction, later restoring it when his income stabilized. Her pragmatic approach keeps orders fair and enforceable, adapting to life’s unpredictability.
Why Choose Family Law Attorney Stephanie Renner in Indiana?
Stephanie Renner is the clear choice for divorce and family law in Hendricks County because she offers:
- Local Insight: Her extensive experience in Indiana procedures gives clients an edge.
- Tailored Advocacy: Stephanie listens to your unique story, crafting strategies that align with your goals—whether that’s a quick settlement or a hard-fought trial.
- Affordability: Affordable payment plans make her services accessible to all income levels.
- Broad Expertise: From expungements to federal litigation, her diverse background tackles multifaceted cases with confidence.
- Client Commitment: Fully available and responsive, Stephanie ensures you’re never left in the dark during your case
Contact Indiana Divorce Attorney Stephanie Renner Today
Don’t face divorce or family law challenges in Hendricks County alone. Attorney Stephanie Renner is ready to stand by your side with expertise, empathy, and unwavering support. Whether you’re dissolving a marriage, fighting for custody, or planning your financial future, she has the skills to deliver results.
Call 317-771-8535 or email or [email protected] now for a free consultation. Serving all of Hendricks County, Stephanie Renner is your partner in navigating divorce and beyond. Take the first step toward resolution today.