Divorce & Family Law

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Best Divorce Lawyers in Tempe

Divorce and Family Law Tempe, AZ

Are you facing the end of your marriage? Divorce is one of the biggest decisions you may make in your lifetime.  It is extremely important to learn of your rights and obligations before you enter into the arena of divorce so that you can plan in the very best way to protect you and your family.

Few events can affect your life and the lives of your children and spouse more than divorce. At McMurdie Law, we take divorce and the impact is has on your life seriously. We specialize in family law in Tempe AZ and throughout the state, specializing in divorce issues such as spousal support, custody, child support, asset division, visitation, relocation & grandparent rights.

Arizona is a “no fault” state which means that if one party wants the divorce and the other spouse does not want the divorce, the party who petitions for the divorce may have it.  Fault is generally not reviewed by the court unless one party has unreasonably burdened your community estate by spending money on interests that are destructive to the home and family that might include drugs, alcohol, affairs, or excess spending.

If you are not ready for divorce because your debts are too high or you need time to re-enter the work force or a new job, we will advise you on effective pre-divorce planning.  We do not hurry you down the divorce highway to get your “case in the door.”  We believe that if you can plan well and work together, either with your spouse or the other attorney, your outcome can be made more optimal and more secure. If you are ready to start your divorce matter, we are ready to prepare your petition for divorce for filing with the Court in a matter of a few days.

If you have limited funds, we can provide limited scope representation in your family law case so that you have good counsel and direction, saving attorney fees.  If you have a case that would be amenable to resolution through mediation, we also provide expert mediation services with more than 20 years of mediation training and experience.  We enjoy helping you reach your case goals in the best way possible to benefit the most people involved.  Sometimes it is better to get both parties situated in separate homes before starting the process of divorce, and we can help you plan and strategize to maximize your future.

After you file for divorce, the other party must be served with the initial papers (Petition for Dissolution of Marriage) within 120 days, or 4 months.  That is usually plenty of time to serve process.  However, if you do nothing in your case for 180 days, your case will be dismissed.  Usually after both parties file their Petition and Response, our Arizona courts will set an initial hearing called a “Resolution Management Conference” so that the court can schedule the other hearings and services that your case will require.

Family Law Tempe AZ

At McMurdie Law & Mediation we can step in during your family law case to move it to completion.  If you have tried to do it alone, and found that it has become too adversarial, or too complicated, we will make things simpler and take that burden from your shoulders.  Give McMurdie Law & Mediation and we will help you take the right direction and very next steps.

September 2024 – Full Representation

After being divorced for 3 and 1/2 years, an issue came up between my ex-wife and me that required us to go to court.  I thought it was a simple matter and could handle it myself so I didn’t contact Cristi, who did a great job with my original divorce decree. Well, I got to court and was ambushed. I won’t go into all the particulars here but I was totally outmaneuvered by ex-wife for various reasons I did not anticipate! It was at that point I realized I should have gone and talked with Cristi before even attempting to

June 2024 – Legal Separation

I was referred to Cristi by a friend in Tempe. Cristi was thorough, attentive, and very understanding during my separation and kept the process as streamlined and clear as possible. She helped me understand elements of the process that I had, on my own, misunderstood and kept lines of communication very clear. She went above and beyond by providing sound advice on parts of the process (e.g., home sale, pensions) that made negotiation with my spouse far easier and clearer. Her prices are fair, and she brings an energy to the job that kept me from feeling overwhelmed or unmotivated.

Henry S.

May 2024 – Divorce Representation

Cristi is organized, knowledgeable and kept my interests at the forefront to help me settle my divorce reasonably amicably. It wasn’t always easy (for reasons that had nothing to do with her), but she was able to navigate the situation well and did a great job.

Joseph B.

March 2024 – Full Representation

I can’t thank Cristi McMurdie and her team at McMurdie Law & Mediation enough for their exceptional support during my divorce. From the moment I walked into their office, I knew I was in capable hands. Cristi’s insight and guidance were invaluable as I navigated through one of the most challenging times in my life. She not only helped me see the possibilities of a new beginning but also provided practical strategies for achieving it. Her enthusiasm for my future career prospects was incredibly uplifting and motivating. Throughout the legal proceedings, Cristi displayed professionalism and expertise, particularly when dealing with

Chris M.

March 2024 – Family Law Case

Cristi was absolutely amazing, her professionalism and genuine sense of care for her clients is unmatched! She explained everything clearly, helped my boyfriend and I understand every thing we needed to in our case, and gave so much value and knowledge to us! I’m so thankful to have had such a kind, caring, thoughtful, and hard working attorney like Cristi! She communicated so well with us every step of the way, and made this process easy as can be! I would absolutely recommend her for any law services you need!

Jennifer H.

March 2024 – Divorce Full Representation

I was referred to six different lawyers, but Cristi McMurdie stood out from the rest. In the initial consultation I knew I wanted to proceed with her. She just “got me”. She is empathetic and understanding, but also realistic and tells you like it is. It was refreshing to work with her because I knew she would always tell me the truth. She negotiated the best case scenario settlement for me, and I couldn’t be more relieved. I highly recommend Cristi!

Cecily R.

March 2024 – Divorce & Child Custody

Cristi McMurdie excels at developing the best outcomes for her clients. She is active in the community and engages in collaborative networking with other professionals to stay at the top of her game. She helped me navigate my divorce, which ended with me having desired sole custody of my daughter. I rely on her for professional guidance to date. Cristi is honest and holds herself to the highest ethical standards. I commend her for her integrity. Thank you.

Laurie L.

December 2023 – Full Representation

Cristi is a very caring, attentive, and thorough attorney. She answered all my questions and advised me in every facet of my divorce. She was very effective in getting the results I wanted while keeping my case out of the courtroom. I would recommend Cristi to anyone wanting expert representation and guidance. She put my needs first in every step of the process and I am very happy with the result and am grateful for her hard work

Brent M.

September 2023 – Full Representation

In my divorce, I needed trust and consistency. Ms. McMurdie not only provided me with everything she set out to accomplish, she became a true advocate and led me through the ever-changing landscape of a divorce with confidence, poise, integrity and kindness. Ms McMurdie was the absolute best decision I made when selecting my legal team!” Thank you for everything that you have done for me.

Fred R.

December 2022 – Full Representation

I was referred to McMurdie Law and Mediation from two separate sources and I’m really glad I followed those suggestions. Ms McMurdie was empathetic and available to me whenever I had questions and she helped negotiate a settlement that left me feeling relief. I was able to move on with my life quickly thanks to Cristi!

January 2023 – Limited Scope Representation

I was referred to McMurdie Law Office and so glad that I followed that suggestion. Ms. McMurdie customized her representation to fit my financial needs and gave me excellent advice. She encouraged me to work directly with my husband and work out a divorce settlement that was in both our best interests. Ms. McMurdie provided sound advice and all the documentation needed. We never even had to step into a courtroom! I would recommend McMurdie Law to anyone who wants to go through a divorce with confidence.

Amy Trinidad

March 2022 – Divorce and Custody

Cristi McMurdie has been representing me since 2012.  Her knowledge of the law is incredible and I have never known anyone to work so hard for their client.  Cristi always makes herself available to me no matter how busy she might be.  It is rare to find someone who truly puts their clients needs first.  I am always confident in any proceedings regarding my divorce and custody issues because I have Cristi on my side and fighting for what is best for me and my children.  I highly recommend Cristi McMurdie for all of your divorce and family law matters.

Jen S.

December 2021 – Full Representation

I am beyond grateful to have received Cristi’s phone number to call as an options for a divorce attorney’s. She is exceptional in her work and with full representation, she gave me the confidence and help to navigate the hardest time of my life. Without a doubt I will refer her and her law firm to anyone going through a divorce or needing family law guidance!

Celena F.

October 2021 – Full Representation

Divorce is an incredibly emotional time for anyone who is going through it, you can have various emotions from sadness to anger and everything in between!  As such, it is important to get the right lawyer, with a level head, who can help you navigate this process with a goal of mediation, but who is also able to litigate well, if it becomes necessary, (especially in acrimonious situations).  It is with all of this in mind that I can unequivocally recommend Cristi McMurdie Law and Mediation with the utmost confidence!  She handled the nuances of my case flawlessly, and will

Joe B.

January 2021 – Full Representation

Cristi guided me through a very hard time in my life. She gave me great legal advice, saved me money and also was very compassionate to my situation. I highly recommend her. She was excellent.

January 2021 – Representation

I was referred to Cristi McMurdie by someone who knew she was a great attorney because they had their own  positive experience.  She helped me immensely during the most difficult time in my life when I really needed support.  She was always ready to listen, learn, and communicate. Cristi was fiercely instructional, quick to act, and very responsive. I would recommend her to anyone.  Thank you Cristi McMurdie!

July 2020 – Divorce

I just wanted to take the time to share what a wonderful experience I had with Cristi McMurdie as a lawyer. When I first walked into her office, I was contemplating divorce. However, with her wonderful guidance, experience, and expertise, she was able to help me see that I had a good marriage and divorce was not a good path for me to follow. I really appreciate her time and advise and I would strongly recommend Cristi McMurdie to anyone and everyone that needs help in those aspects. Please go see her because as an attorney and individual, she really

Happy in Maricopa AZ

July 2019 – Divorce Representation

Cristi was a heaven sent for me! The legality of my divorce was daunting alone, but Cristi made sure that I understood each step clearly and with confidence. With her many years of experience, and talents beyond her practice, she helped me get through my situation emotionally and legally got everything I needed to start my life anew! She is more than a lawyer and mediator, she’s the partner you’d want on your side to fight the fight you cannot. I will always recommend her! Thank you Cristi!

Lisa M.

March 2019 – Divorce Representation

I chose McMurdie Law Firm because Ms. McMurdie is a bulldog. I was trying to go through the divorce with just a mediator but I didn’t understand anything that was going on. Ms. McMurdie stepped right in and lined me out, stayed by my side and still checks on me even though the case is over. She is super smart and on the ball. An absolute professional and brilliant mind. I thank her for all her hard work and would recommend her to everyone. Thanks Ms. McMurdie!

Shawni L.

January 2019 – Limited Scope Representation

First and foremost, thank you for your assistance!  I know of you through your website and for anyone seeking services, I will always recommend you.  There is nothing easy about divorce and its process; your approach of respect and sensitivity to our case demonstrates your willingness and expertise to help make the divorce process as easy as possible.  There were no bumps or delays.  Again, THANK YOU!  

Gloria

November 2018 – Divorce

Divorce and Relocation Successful Using WHYMediate Thanks again for your help.  [My ex-spouse] and I both feel as though we are in a good place and can work together amicably to deal with issues as they arise.   However, if we do find ourselves at an impasse and agree we need your help, we will certainly call you. We both really appreciate all you’ve done for us!

Scott in Carefree, AZ

May 2018 – Margaret B, Post-Decree Client

Ms. McMurdie had not only provided me exceptional legal guidance, but also personal counseling in how to best handle conflicts with my ex-husband. I have become better equipped to traverse the understandably difficult situations a divorce can bring and I’ve become more confident in myself knowing Ms. McMurdie is on my side.

February 2018 – Divorce with Children Client

Thank you for your legal services and helping me work through one of the toughest times in my life. Thank you for addressing every detail and crafting the decree to protect my interests.  Your meticulous attention to detail was phenomenal.  I will recommend you to all I know for your legal services.  Your staff were attentive and knowledgeable. Thank you.    

Carolyn C.

February 2015 – Divorce

WHY made my divorce quick, easy and cheap!  Cristi and her staff were amazing and so helpful and made the process easy for me.  I will definitely use WHY again in the future and will refer my friends and family.

Daniel A.

October 2015 – Divorce

Cristi McMurdie is an attorney that cares about people. She has passion for not only being an attorney, but passion for life. She uses her own life experiences with many clients to help paint a picture of the current situation, and the possibilities of future expectations based on the need of the client. In 1997 when my boys were very young, I went through a divorce that turned my life upside down. Not only did Cristi write a divorce decree that would last over 15 years, she coached me through many challenging times that I faced as a father in

Tom C.

June 2015 – Divorce & Step Parent Adoption

I have not only been a client of Ms. McMurdie, but have referred many of my friends to her.  She is honest, fair and reliable.  I have used her services for more than 15 years and would use her again if necessary. She is the best divorce lawyer in the Phoenix area.  She will go the distance for her clients and is priced to beat the competition.

Kristin B.

May 2015 – Divorce

Divorce is a painful, life-changing experience. I was in a fog shortly after my ex-wife and I made the decision to separate and divorce. Having to think about the legal side of divorce was not a task I was prepared for. Cristi made this process as easy as possible. I liked her approach of fighting for what was fair, not “going for the jugular” as many attorney’s would. While “fair” is somewhat subjective and largely depends on the states idea of “fair”, I felt satisfied that Cristi protected my rights as a father and ex-spouse. After the divorce Cristi helped

Ken J.

May 2015 – Divorce

Cristi has helped me through some of the toughest times of my life. As a young new mother going through a divorce I was petrified about court proceedings. Cristi’s compassion and knowledge put me at ease. Cristi fought hard for my case and we secured everything we wanted! Years later Cristi still reaches out to me asking for updates. I whole heartedly recommend Cristi! Her work is unmatched by any other attorney in the area! She is honest, caring, and hardworking!

Kimberly P.

February 2014 – Divorce

I have to say that in a sad situation as divorce Ms. McMurdie made my situation a pleasure.  Living on the other side of the country she took care of my case and I was able to be at peace knowing things were being taken care of.  I flew in once out of the cold to sunny Arizona and Cristi had all the documents and hearing set up for me and finished the process very quickly.  I am very happy to have chosen Ms. McMurdie and plan on using her law office in the future.  I hope this helps since

Larry R.

Complete the contact form to request a consultation with McMurdie Law & Mediation.

(480) 777-5500

64 E. Broadway Rd. Ste.200 Tempe, AZ 85282

Best Divorce Lawyers in Tempe
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