Divorce is never one-size-fits-all. Families today look different than they did generations ago; blended families, same-sex partnerships, later-in-life divorces, financial dependence disparities, and unique career paths are all part of the modern landscape. At Johnson/Turner, we recognize that every client brings a story that deserves to be understood, respected, and reflected in their legal strategy.
So how do we do it?
Listening First: Understanding the Story Behind the Case
When someone comes to Johnson/Turner, the first step isn’t paperwork—it’s conversation. “One thing I can say is that J/T does not hire folks who are not accepting of all the different types of families that are out there these days,” explains attorney Dan Cain. “It’s important not to assume that clients are in a heteronormative relationship but rather ask open-ended questions and allow them to share what is comfortable.”
This human-first approach is also supported structurally. “We’ve created a little questionnaire ‘script’ for case commencement calls that always hits the major points,” shares attorney and partner Kelly Sater, “but the rest comes down to experience and reading people.” The goal isn’t just data—it’s connection. As paralegal Amanda Johnson puts it: “I like to ask clients right out of the gate what keeps them up at night… In hearing their story, what’s important to them comes through.”
Tailored Support for Every Identity and Family Structure
Whether you’re in a same-sex marriage, a blended family, or navigating a non-traditional parenting setup, Johnson/Turner is already prepared. “J/T treats any client, with any identity, with the same respect and through the same process as any other client,” says Johnson. “At the same time, we’re aware that there are different components to every divorce and are prepared to deal with the emotions and legal pieces that may be different for members of, say, the LGBTQ+ community.”
“Prior to 2014, there was a whole lot of difference here because marriage wasn’t recognized legally,” explains Kelly Sater. “Nowadays, not so much. One major difference now is that a lot of couples in same sex relationships were living together and dating for a long time before official marriage… so there can be more non-marital assets to handle. We, of course, prepare for this.”
Another difference may include sensitive issues like third-party custody. As Sater explains, “Biological children, which can be a nuanced issue here—[are] not as scary as you may think. If the parties were married when the child was conceived and the parties have brought up that child as theirs, then those parties have parental rights, regardless of biology.”
Cain adds, “These are people who need help, and that is our concern. As for custody, we think if there is a relationship there, it deserves to be protected. Every child deserves to see their parents as heroes.”
Specialized Support for All of Life’s Timelines
Divorce later in life? We’ve got that covered, too. “We have folks who can help with estate planning as a specialty, if that becomes relevant in these cases,” says Cain, “as well as attorneys who specialize in more complicated financial/property matters, and even a life coach to help with the adjustment that a change so late in life can bring about.”
For retirees or those approaching retirement, Johnson/Turner creates multiple scenarios to support smart decision-making when divorce changes one’s household income. “We like to give two possibilities and build two budgets,” Sater explains. “It’s their choice, but it should be an informed one.”
Financial Dependence? We Equip Clients to Move Forward
J/T understands the complexities when one spouse has not been the primary earner. “We work with lots of resources for this,” says Sater. “A life coach, connections to financial planners, and educational opportunities for clients to learn about their resources and build a future budget.”
In some cases, clients need help reentering the workforce. Johnson notes, “We can even send them to a specialist who may help them break back into the job market……and until they find income, the issue of spousal maintenance becomes relevant, which we guide them through.”
Amanda Johnson also highlights how important it is to not be surprised by these things. “Marriage is a contract, and there are rules to that contract. Read the contract and know the rules!”
Why Tailored Divorce Matters
Every divorce is different because every life is different. “Nobody lives a comparable life to somebody else,” says Sater. “It’s incredibly important to have someone on your case who not only knows what to look for legally but also brings empathy and helps you prepare for what’s ahead.”
And we’re not just providing legal counsel—we’re building a support system. “It takes a village!” says Johnson. “We provide you with MUCH of that support… Our network of positive relationships with outside organizations can be a real benefit to clients.” That’s also where our flat-fee, no-hourly-billing model shines, as Cain explains: “The flat fee allows for folks to be completely open and honest, since they don’t have to fear getting billed for exposing further issues.”
Your Family. Your Future. Your Strategy.
At Johnson/Turner, our mission is Guiding Your Next Chapter. That means meeting you where you are, understanding your story, and designing a legal path that fits. Whether you’re navigating complex custody, untangling retirement assets, or stepping into independence for the first time, our team is built to support you—authentically and effectively.
Want to learn more about how we can support your unique situation?
Contact us today to start your next chapter.
