Greenwood Divorce Lawyer & Family Law Attorney Stephanie Renner
Serving Edinburgh, Franklin, Greenwood, Princes Lakes, Trafalgar, Bargersville, New Whiteland, Whiteland & Johnson County, Indiana
Free Consultation Affordable Divorce Attorney
317-771-8535
When facing a divorce or family law issue in Johnson County, Indiana, you need an attorney who combines legal expertise with genuine compassion. Attorney 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 Johnson 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 – Johnson County, Indiana Divorce Lawyer & Family Law Attorney
About Divorce Lawyer Stephanie Renner
Divorce and Family Law Courts in Johnson 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 Johnson 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 Johnson 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 Johnson County, Indiana
Johnson County, Indiana, situated just south of Indianapolis, operates a robust judicial system to handle divorce and family law matters, serving residents across its various communities, including larger cities like Greenwood, Franklin, and Bargersville. The county’s court system is designed to address a wide range of family-related legal issues, such as divorce, child custody, child support, spousal support, and domestic relations disputes. These cases are primarily managed through the county’s Circuit and Superior Courts, which collectively ensure that family law matters are adjudicated efficiently and fairly. As of March 30, 2025, the judicial framework in Johnson County remains an essential resource for families navigating the complexities of legal separation and familial disputes.
In Johnson County, the court system consists of one Circuit Court and four Superior Courts, making a total of five courts that may handle divorce and family law cases depending on their jurisdiction and caseload assignments. The Johnson County Circuit Court, established under Article 7 of the Indiana Constitution, serves as the foundational court for the county and has broad jurisdiction over civil, criminal, and family law matters. The four Superior Courts—Superior Court 1, Superior Court 2, Superior Court 3, and Superior Court 4—were created by the Indiana General Assembly to alleviate the caseload of the Circuit Court and provide specialized attention to various legal matters, including family law. While not all of these courts exclusively focus on divorce and family law, cases are distributed among them based on local rules and judicial availability, with some courts taking on a more prominent role in domestic relations depending on the specific circumstances of each case.
All of these courts are physically located in Franklin, the county seat of Johnson County, at the Johnson County Courthouse. The courthouse’s address is 5 East Jefferson Street, Franklin, IN 46131, a central hub where residents from across the county, including those from larger cities like Greenwood and Bargersville, must file their family law cases. Franklin’s role as the county seat ensures that the courthouse serves as the primary location for legal proceedings, though hearings and mediations may occasionally be scheduled in alternative facilities depending on court schedules and renovations. For instance, temporary relocations have occurred in nearby counties like Bartholomew County during remodeling projects, but as of now, the Franklin courthouse remains the key site. Residents can contact the courts directly at (317) 346-4350 for specific inquiries about case assignments or hearing schedules.
The process for filing a divorce or family law case in Johnson County begins with submitting paperwork to the Johnson County Clerk’s Office, also located at the courthouse in Franklin. The clerk randomly assigns cases to one of the five courts, ensuring an equitable distribution of workload among the judges. To file, an individual must have resided in Indiana for at least six months and in Johnson County for at least three months, a requirement that applies to residents of Franklin, Greenwood, Bargersville, and smaller towns like Whiteland, New Whiteland, and Trafalgar. Once assigned, the court oversees all proceedings, which may include hearings, mediation, or trials, depending on whether the case is contested or uncontested.
Greenwood, the largest city in Johnson County with a population exceeding 60,000, generates a significant portion of the county’s family law cases due to its size and proximity to Indianapolis. Franklin, with around 25,000 residents, serves not only as the administrative center but also as a key residential area contributing to the courts’ caseloads. Bargersville, though smaller, is another growing community whose residents rely on the Franklin courthouse for their legal needs. Other notable towns like Edinburgh, Trafalgar, and Princes Lakes also fall under the jurisdiction of these courts, though they are smaller in scale compared to Greenwood and Franklin. This network of cities and towns underscores the importance of the centralized courthouse location in Franklin, ensuring accessibility for all county residents.
Divorce proceedings in Johnson County can vary in complexity. Uncontested divorces, where both parties agree on terms like property division and child custody, typically move faster and may not require extensive court appearances. Contested cases, however, often involve formal hearings or trials where evidence is presented under the Indiana Rules of Evidence, making legal representation advisable. The courts also frequently order mediation to encourage out-of-court settlements, with options like the Johnson County Alternative Dispute Resolution Project available for those with limited financial means. This sliding-scale mediation service reflects the county’s commitment to equitable access to justice.
Each court operates under the oversight of its respective judge, with the Circuit Court judge and the four Superior Court judges managing their dockets. While the Indiana Supreme Court approves certain local rules—such as those governing special judge selections or caseload plans—most operational guidelines are set locally, allowing flexibility in how family law cases are handled. The courthouse staff, including the clerk’s office, plays a crucial role in maintaining records and assisting litigants, though they cannot provide legal advice or notarize documents like divorce decrees, which must be signed by both parties and notarized elsewhere.
For residents of Greenwood, Franklin, Bargersville, and beyond, the Johnson County Courthouse in Franklin stands as the cornerstone of the divorce and family law system. Its five courts collectively address the diverse needs of the county’s population, offering a structured yet accessible process for resolving family disputes. Whether you’re in a bustling city like Greenwood or a quieter town like Whiteland, the legal infrastructure in Franklin ensures that family law matters are handled with diligence and care, reflecting the county’s commitment to supporting its communities through life’s challenging transitions.
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 Johnson County residents, Stephanie Renner provides expert guidance through every phase of this process, ensuring your rights and interests are protected in the Johnson County Circuit Court or Superior Court.
Understanding the Divorce Process in Indiana
To initiate a divorce in Johnson County, Indiana law mandates that at least one spouse has been a state resident for six months and a Johnson 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 Johnson 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 Johnson 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 Johnson 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 Johnson 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 Johnson 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 Johnson 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 Johnson 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 Johnson 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 Johnson 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 Johnson 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 Johnson 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 Johnson County, Stephanie Renner is your partner in navigating divorce and beyond. Take the first step toward resolution today.