Home » Practice Areas » Divorce Law

AWARD-WINNING RENO DIVORCE ATTORNEYS

Our Reno Divorce lawyers are here to help. If you are going through a divorce, don’t hesitate to contact our award-winning divorce law firm today. As a result, we understand that going through a divorce can be exhausting. Therefore, we approach each divorce case with compassion. Often, the process can feel overwhelming. So, we guarantee that our clients are informed throughout the process. Just as important, we work to remember the human impact of each case.

Experienced Divorce & Family Law Attorneys in Reno, NV

Carlson & Work is an experienced and honest family law firm in Reno, NV. Ultimately, there is no substitute for experience. Our founding partners have hundreds of successful divorce trials to their name. Both attorneys, Mathew A. Work and Rebecca J. Carlson have won awards relating to their skills and experience. In fact, Carlson & Work is one of the only family law and divorce law firms to obtain a perfect 10 Avvo ratings. So, when you retain our law firm for your divorce, you can be confident you have a skilled divorce attorney by your side.

Top-Rated Family Law and Divorce Customer Service

When you are going through a divorce, you have enough to worry about. So, our divorce and family law attorney will ensure that your case management is not one of them. Most specifically, we make sure that our clients are up to date and informed with each step of their divorce. For example, each of our clients will have access to their online divorce file. Therefore, our clients will know exactly what has happened in their case. Also, our divorce clients are given weekly updates from their attorneys.

Family law clients’ needs are always put first. When you retain Carlson & Work you will have a dedicated attorney by your side. At Carlson & Work, the outcome of a divorce can have lifelong effects. Often, there is no redo when it comes to the terms of your divorce decree so. We will work together and make sure every option and family law outcome is considered. At Carlson & Work, we always consider our client’s goals first. Together, we will work to find the outcome you rightfully deserve. Most importantly, our client’s needs and concerns are always heard.

Carlson & Work: Divorce, Family & Custody

4.9

Based on 75 reviews

See all reviews Write a review

Matthew and Rebecca are such a breath of fresh air when it comes to attorneys. They don’t frivolously bill you, they only speak the truth and are willing to have the difficult conversations when necessary. If you or your family are looking to retain a hard-working law firm with solid humans, these folks are the answer. My family and I put our stamp of approval proudly on them.

Raphaelle Shanahan

20:21 31 Dec 20

If you’re looking for somebody to coddle you, hold your hand and tell you what you want to hear, not what you need to hear, this may not be a fit. However, if you’re looking for hard honest truths, grinders and a law firm that isn’t going to waste your time or your retainer, these are your people. I quickly learned, if I needed to hear from them, I would. Otherwise, I let them do their job and in the end I couldn’t be more proud of how the case turned out for my family.

Weston Carroll

19:47 24 Dec 20

I was involved in a serious car accident last year. I skipped the games and went straight to a friend in the family that practices bankruptcy law. She eagerly sent me to Attorney Mathew Work. Trust me when I tell you, not all attorneys are created equal. Our initial offer increased 500% after Mr. Work got involved. He is a man of his word, direct, blunt and has an incredible work ethic.

Chaim Torp

22:39 20 Dec 20

Update:I was contacted shortly after leaving this review and they were extremely cooperative and understanding of my sons situation. They agreed to set up a consultation for my son TODAY 😃🙏. Thank you for your time and you have no idea how much you are appreciated right now.Original:The website says same day consultation but when you call to schedule you are told weeks out. Its an emergency case with a hearing scheduled less for than 24 hours after being served and I'm being told weeks after they state in black and white same day.

lara Sellers

18:27 18 Nov 20

If you are looking for attentive, caring, and super-smart attorneys, this is your firm. Rebecca and Mathew are quickly becoming the best attorneys in the area for a reason. They will take on your needs in the most efficient and professional way possible. They also are genuinely good people and care about their clients. If you need them, call them without hesitation. You are in good hands.

Kyle Yamamoto

17:15 30 Sep 20

Rebecca is wonderful; she came through after a long fight between my daughter, Kelly G. and her ex. The children are now safe! Highly recommend her and the Carlson and Work team. Thank you again so much!

Kaye Caisse

18:04 15 Sep 20

If you're looking for an honest and hard-working law firm, these people are for you. They have a work ethic to match the reputation they have earned.

Chris Allie

15:07 28 Aug 20

Carslon & Work, you all ROCK. Thank you. Thank you. Thank YOU! we did it! I can finally sleed and I am so relived. I will be recommending everyone I know!

Lacey Pena

13:49 22 Aug 20

If you're looking for an honest and hard-working, these people are for you. They have a work ethic to match the reputation they have earned.

Frank Smith

23:47 19 Aug 20

I hired Mathew to defend me against what were false charges. From the first appearance in court, it was obvious the court held Attorney Work in high regard and more obvious that the DA trusted him. In the end, the false charges were dismissed. I would 100% recommend Mathew to anyone looking for an honest attorney.

Trisha Cobbs

06:21 18 Aug 20

I can't say enough about how great Rebecca was to work with. She was the perfect attorney for my case and I am so pumped that I was able to work with her and her awesome staff.

Letha Wilson

21:47 14 Aug 20

Rebecca Carlson did a phenomenal job at representing me during the COVID19 pandemic at our telephonic hearing. She really did an excellent job. Thanks again Rebecca!

! Tyler

22:08 13 Aug 20

Mathew and his team really cared about me, my children and the process. 5 star law firm!

Evelyn Goad

21:39 12 Aug 20

Attorney Rebecca Carlson was tough, honest and fair. She was always available to take my questions and calm my concerns. Very thankful I was able to retain this group.

Mark Savala

06:12 11 Aug 20

I am so thankful and pleased that I hired this incredible law firm. They worked hard and got the verdict my family and children needed.

Deonna Ludwig

21:21 08 Aug 20

Very tough process but in the end, it was obvious I selected the best law firm in town. Kind people who are willing to have hard conversations and tell you the likely outcome. They don't blow smoke and really do care out us.

Steve Sullivan

20:32 08 Aug 20

I was up to speed, informed throughout the entire case process and so happy with the outcome of the case. Very happy with the service I received from the firm's manager, Lauren.

Beverly Bells

19:59 06 Aug 20

The buzz about this firm is real. They are just different. The difference is, they aren't afraid to tell you you're being an idiot, or that your expectations are not real. They live and die by fact and ignore all the noise

Rochelle Longhorn

22:14 03 Aug 20

They deliver. Plane and simple. They're never going to sugar coat things, they tell you hard, honest news, but they actually care about the best interest for everyone in the process, especially my kids. I respect that they tell you hard news even when it is tough.

Marc Colburn

09:50 01 Aug 20

The second we walked into court, I knew I had made the right decision. Rebecca > His attorney. It was almost sad to watch unfold. She was sharper, more confident and just quicker on her feet.

Raymond Dunn

09:32 31 Jul 20

I would happily recommend this firm to those I care about. I have no doubt that with Rebecca and Mathew in their corner, they would be in great hands.

Collen Pearce

21:25 25 Jul 20

The process was long and tough but I am so thankful I had this law firm on my side. Rebecca and Mathew are first-class people and some of the best attorneys I have ever seen work. Very thankful

Leo Wallace

22:06 11 Jul 20

From start to finish, this firm cares, they work hard and they are always looking ahead for the next steps and preparing as best they could. I was always prepped ready for court and kept up to speed when there was information to receive.

Hector Perez

18:47 02 Apr 20

My experience with Attorney Rebecca Carlson was terrific. She was kind, helpful, honest and communicated throughout the entire process. Even when the news was hard to deliver, she was there by my side. In any family law case, there are high and lows but with Attorney Carlson by my side, I was ready for the lows and knew she was always working to deliver the highs. I would highly recommend my friends and family to this firm.

Jane Andrews

02:08 01 Apr 20

From the first day, I consulted with Carlson and Work until the last day in trial. I knew they had my back. So thankful to these hard-working professionals. Such a great team.

Dayna Knott

20:54 29 Mar 20

Friendly folks.

Stephen O'Brien

04:31 04 Jan 20

I hope I never need them again but if I do, I’m so happy to know they are there!

Joyce Delrio

11:06 25 Dec 19

Hire this firm. They are the real deal and really care about people.

Steve Fremont

10:15 23 Dec 19

Rebecca and Mathew are such a perfectly matched partnership. They are hungry and they are determined. I was so impressed working with them both.

Emily Milewski

20:41 22 Dec 19

Working with any law firm is never easy, there is always tension but you will get the truth from this law firm. I never had anything sugarcoated and I was never told what I wanted to hear, I was only told the truth. At the end of the day, we didn’t get the results we all had hoped for but I got more than my moneys worth out of everyone. The outcome is fair and seeing these people work, gives me peace of mind that I got the best results possible.

Jeffrey Anding

22:52 21 Dec 19

I’ve spent the last year speaking with this firm on nearly a daily basis. I would be lying if I didn’t have days that I was upset with them and days that I was pleased with them but at the end of the day, they always answer the phone, they were always honest and prepared me for the difficult times ahead . We went through a tough battle together and I’m so thankful, at the end of the day, they were in my corner.

James Cole

22:05 20 Dec 19

Thank you so much to Rebecca ! I will never forget the dedication you all showed me and the compassion you practiced with. My life has been bettered in so many ways just for knowing you all.

Lacresha Barbour

01:13 19 Dec 19

As former law-enforcement, I have spent my fair share of time in court. Attorney Mathew Work, is hands-down the best trial attorney I have ever seen in my 30 years in law-enforcement. He is confident but not arrogant. He is humble but not passive. He is intelligent but not a know it all. He understands the dynamics and is typically three questions ahead of everyone listening in the court room. He is playing chess and everyone else, often including the judge, is playing checkers. Matthew may sincerely be the only top tier trial attorney in Nevada

Joanne Schwartz

19:45 17 Dec 19

Recently, I found myself facing a very scary custody battle with a very malicious ex. I needed a fighter. I found Rebecca. She is an absolute bull dog. She is smart and demands respect in the court room. Frankly, seeing the opposing attorney in court with Rebecca said it all. She ran circles around the opposition.

Nicholas Gerber

18:24 16 Dec 19

Hire this firm! They are truly remarkable. Rebecca and Lauren were an excellent tagteam.

Amanda Kelley

14:29 15 Dec 19

I can’t thank Rebecca enough. She was so honest, dedicated and loyal to me as a client throughout.

Lana Ramsey

14:20 14 Dec 19

Work Law always does an outstanding job. From the first consultation to the end of my case, they have been extremely helpful. I would highly recommend Work Law to anyone needing help in Family Law or Criminal Defense.

Dalton Wilson

01:09 07 Nov 19

Thanks to Rebecca Carlson, my kiddos are finally where they should have always been. I can’t think Work Law enough for the patience and dedication they showed me.

Roy Truss

06:43 05 Nov 19

Mathew Work and Rebecca Carlson were a dynamite duo. The last six months have been very difficult but I’m not certain I could’ve made it through without them. Thank you!

Louise Allen

14:11 03 Nov 19

Rebecca Carlson is hands-down the most honest and aggressive attorney I have ever worked with. A lot of attorneys talk a big game but she actually walks the talk.

Carolyn Ortiz

20:39 02 Nov 19

Lorin Taylor and Rebecca Carlson were a dream team. I cannot thank these girls enough for everything they did for me.

Chris Enrique

14:18 01 Nov 19

I can’t thank you all enough. You are the light at the end of a very difficult tunnel I needed to get through. I know I wasn’t always easy to deal with but thank you for the grace and kindness you showed me.

Arnold Woods

03:48 01 Nov 19

You all rock! Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart. I am so thankful that there are still people like all of you in the community and in the legal profession

Eric Sipple

11:48 10 Oct 19

I was recently charged with a DUI and retained Mathew Work. They say a good lawyer makes all the difference, they do. Before meeting with Mathew, I met with one of the billboard-type attorneys. The entire meeting was the [other] attorney bragging about all the people he knew and how he would “walk me” through the process. Basically, how he was going to help me get convicted. Mathew, on the other hand, explained the entire process of a DUI conviction, what the DA would need and what he would attack. He did just that, three days later, all charges were DROPPED! He. Is. The. Real. DEAL!

Dwight Nielsen

19:20 07 Oct 19

I called the law office with a couple of questions. Before I could get the words out, they wanted to set me up with an appointment for $200.However after speaking with Matt York and answering my questions I was very satisfied and I am looking for a positive future relationship

Carl Hull

03:33 29 Jun 19

Mathew is a stand-up guy!

J Douce

20:19 30 Nov 18

Mathew is a standup guy, and is man enough to own up to situations and make them right!

James Doucettperry

20:12 30 Nov 18

Rebecca was a godsend. From the first day I met with her to today my life has changed remarkably for the better. I can’t thank her and The Firm enough.

Annie Dean

01:28 17 Jun 18

If you need a family law attorney or are going through a custody battle, look no further. These people rock and actually care about their clients. Such a breath of fresh air.

Jim Hunter

18:05 15 Jun 18

Matthew and Rebeca were aggressive and dedicated to my case from the first day I retained them. Going through divorce or any family law matter can be very difficult but, it helps to know you have people that know the process and can get you fair results.

Gwen Jones

15:37 13 Jun 18

If you are in Reno looking for a family law attorney, seriously consider Matthew. He is honest and hard-working. He always responded to my emails personally and I really felt like I had a teammate more than attorney.

Albert Andrews

08:58 19 May 18

I’m so happy I found Work Law. They were practical, pragmatic and realistic at every turn. They gave me the good and the bad news with nothing but the truth. I really admire Matthews approach to law, he is very common sense and doesn’t waste your time.

Vera bradshaw

13:16 17 May 18

Matthew, Rebecca and Lauren were a dynamite trio. I was up to speed with the process of my divorce at every step and in the end I got a fair and hard-fought victory. I would highly recommend this legal team to anyone going through a divorce or serious legal matter. They’re not cheap but you get what you pay for.

Linda Smith

18:39 07 May 18

I can’t thank Work Law enough. They came through in one of my darkest hours. Krystal was godsend. She was kind, compassionate and on the ball throughout the entire case. Matthew was able to give tough criticism when I needed to hear it and skillfully attacked the opposing party at trial. He has a gift in the courtroom. They changed my life forever for the best. Thank you!!!

David Williams

08:08 06 Apr 18

Matthew and Rebeca were incredible to work with. At every turn, they returned our emails, or phone calls and were there for us whenever we needed to speak. I can’t thank them enough for getting me through such a difficult time. I would highly recommend Matthew and his team to anyone looking for an attorney in Reno. They were missed and compassionate and I can’t thank them enough for bringing a human element to my case. They changed my life in so many positive ways.

Annabel Paul

02:23 06 Apr 18

Attorney Mathew Work and his associate Rebecca Carlson were a dynamite team to work with. Their skills, personality and backgrounds offered multiple perspectives at my case. At trial, they both had strengths in representing me in my case. It was incredible to have two attorneys in the quart room for the price of one. This was a service that I didn’t realize was offered anywhere. At the end of the day, they thought their tails off and achieved a remarkable outcome in my case. I can’t thank Mr. Work and his team enough. I can’t leave out his senior paralegal Krystal and legal assistant Lauren. They are just so incredible.

Jennifer Black

00:33 08 Mar 18

Matthew and his team were nothing short of Lifesavers. They came through for me when I needed them the most. My life has done a complete shift since meeting Matthew, all for the better. He is a unique attorney, he generally cares and has a huge heart. If you were looking for a family law attorney, and right now, Matthew is your guy.

K.Jacobs K.Jacobs

17:31 16 Jan 18

Work Law was a dream to work with. Can’t thank them all enough and couldn’t have asked for a better outcome to a very difficult family case.

Mike Hasse

13:09 04 Jan 18

Mr. work was honest and aggressive throughout his entire representation of my case. He couldn’t have gotten a better result for me and I will never be able to thank him enough. What a top flight guy.

Nandlal mandal

17:34 24 Oct 17

Matthew was honest, straightforward and at times blunt but his honesty saved me thousands of dollars in legal fees when he shot it to me straight.

Candis Melton

03:43 23 Oct 17

Mathew is an excellent attorney who was able to quickly and effectively settle my traffic case despite prior history. Additionally, he's very nice to work with as he is frank and to the point about what needs to be done to win the case. Definitely would reccomend!

Hawye Bade

18:38 22 Oct 17

I went Law firm in Reno, Nevada. I'm very pleased and satisfied with the firm. They are very professional. Highly recommended!

Caris Bond

16:45 18 Oct 17

I’ve know Mathew for years and he has helped me and a number of my friends out over the years. He will always put his clients first. There is nothing this attorney hasn’t seen. Very professional, friendly, thorough and does an awesome job explaining the legal side of things in lamemens terms. Highly recommend.

Misty Wells

21:28 12 Oct 17

When seeking legal representation, there were many factors that I considered. Chief among them were Legal Competence, Trial Experience, and Accessibility. After interviewing multiple attorney's in the Reno area, Mathew was the clear choice to represent my case.As a former Deputy City Attorney with the City of Reno, Mathew is not only exceptionally well-versed with regards to the letter and spirit of the law, but also, he has a unique understanding of its application within the context of the local judicial environment there in Northern Nevada. Looking beyond his proven track record of successful litigation, Mathew is a warm, decent human being. I will continue to work with him in the future and would recommend him to friends and family without hesitation.

John McCaffrey

15:08 11 Oct 17

Work Law is the most honest and hard-working representation you will ever experience. Whether you are in need of family, defense, or business law, look no further than Work Law. Most importantly you get direct contact with Mr. Work. You will not be treated as "a number" like so many other law firms around. You will know he cares about your case. He will work hard to fight for you and you will go to court knowing all the different possible outcomes and what every step entails. Trust me when I say Work Law will go to court for you with the finest representation you will ever come across.

Mark Cantrell

04:01 11 Oct 17

I have never met a more honest person in my life. Mathew always brings his "A" game, day in and day out. If you want an attorney that strengthens his argument, instead of raising his voice to get his point across, Mathew Work is your go to guy. He is by your side every step of the way.

Casey Cochran

03:23 11 Oct 17

This team knows how to approach delicate situations to maximize client advantage. My family appreciates the one on one family feel, with experience and expertise to match. Highly recommend.

Spencer Hutchings

00:17 11 Oct 17

Fantastic work guys! I am very pleased! I recommend you to everyone!

John Robert

22:30 10 Oct 17

‹

›

HOW TO FILE FOR DIVORCE IN RENO, NV.

NEVADA JUSIDICTION FOR YOUR DIVORCE

The first step to filing for divorce in

First, to seek a divorce in Nevada, you must be a resident for a minimum of (6) weeks. Specifically, to accomplish this, a divorce attorney with file proof of residency documentation. From the onset, this divorce document will be filed directly with the family law court. So, this will be done at the beginning of your divorce.

Importantly, a party must prove they have an intent to remain in the state prior to filing for divorce in Nevada. Because of this, a court will not allow a party to move to Nevada for the sole purpose of filing for divorce.

Once established, the family courts will then determine that proper jurisdiction has been shown. Then, your divorce can then move forward with the assistance of your family law attorney and the family law court.

In summary, a party is required to reside in Nevada for six weeks prior to filing for divorce.

GROUNDS FOR DIVORCE IN NEVADA

Thankfully, Nevada is a no-fault state. Therefore, there are no technical hurdles to clear before a divorce can be filed. Instead, a party filing for divorce needs to show one of the three followings things has occurred:

First, a party filing for divorce can argue they are no longer compatible. Basically, this can be as straightforward as no longer getting along.

Similarly, a party can also state that they are no longer compatible. Really, this means that they no longer see themselves as a good fit.

Lastly, in rare circumstances, when one party is deemed legally insane. Remember, this must be legally determined before you file for divorce. Often, a formal diagnosis is required.

Most importantly, Nevada is one of the most flexible states concerning the ability to file a divorce. Unlike many states, incompatibility is enough for parties to request a divorce. This making the initial steps for filing straightforward.

In summary, the second step taken to file for divorce in Nevada is deciding which grounds to file for divorce.

FILING A COMPLAINT FOR DIVORCE IN RENO, NV.

In Nevada, when parties cannot completely agree, one party files a complaint for divorce. Fortunately, the complaint will cover many aspects of divorce. Specifically, the complaint will address property debts, child custody, child support, and even alimony.

What is a Divorce Complaint?

A divorce complaint is simply a legal document asking the family court to grant a divorce. Further, a complaint for divorce also begins the divorce proceedings. In Reno, when a party files for divorce and executes the complaint, they are required by the family law court to make sure the opposing party in the divorce has been served a copy of the divorce complaint.

RESPONDING TO A COMPLAINT FOR DIVORCE IN RENO, NV.

After serving, a defendant then has twenty (20) calendar days to respond to the complaint for divorce. In the family court, the party who receives the complaint is referred to as the defendant.

The defendant will complete what is called an Answer. Specifically, the Answer outlines the defendant’s responses to each argument made. Also, the defendant will have the opportunity to make additional arguments. So, if any items were not addressed in the initial complaint, they can be addressed in the response. The family court will see all of the arguments. So, there will be nothing missed as long as the divorce documents are filed timely. Therefore, it is critical to act timely throughout the divorce proceedings.

In summary, when a party is served with a complaint, they have twenty days to respond. And, it is critical to act timely.

CONTESTED DIVORCE IN NEVADA

Contested divorces in Nevada occur when the parties cannot agree to all the terms of the divorce, division of assets, child custody, and child support. In a contested divorce, the most common area of disagreement is child support and child custody. These areas of the family are rightfully emotionally driven and are often the area of biggest disagreement. Nevada community property laws will govern the assets and division of property throughout the divorce. The best interest factors under NRS 125 will govern most aspects of the child custody and child support side of the divorce.

JOINT PETITION (UNCONTESTED DIVORCE)

Joint Petition Divorces in Nevada are most typically best for family law clients who can agree on all terms and who have a very low level of conflict when approaching their divorce. This method of divorce can be very cost-effective primarily because it limits the need for multiple attorneys to litigate and attend multiple family court hearings. The method is done together and can be filed as a joint document to the family law courts. The family law and divorce law authority for a joint petition divorce can be found under NRS 125.182. Parties to a joint petition divorce must make sure to agree to all terms of the joint petition divorce and must notify the court to the specifics of child custody should the couple have children. Additionally, this includes how all property will be divided, whether one party will receive spousal support, who will assume debts, and if there are children, how custody shall be divided.

Then, through the help of a family attorney, the couple will complete the petition and marital settlement agreement and file with the court. A marital settlement agreement outlines how the property, debt, custody should be divided, and defines any other related terms. The family court judge will then review and approve the drafted joint petition. After the judge has reviewed the joint petition and marriage settlement agreement, a divorce decree will be entered with the court, and signed by the judge.

In Nevada, an uncontested divorce is easier and much faster compared to a contested divorce, and cheaper given the limited hours required by a family law attorney. However, parties must agree on absolutely everything before filing.

CHILD SUPPORT

A family law attorney can help many ways in regards to child support. With the help of an attorney, child support can be established, and even reviewed to decrease or increase the amount of support due each month. A parent may request child support to be reviewed if there has been a significant change in circumstances, or a significant change in income.

SPOUSAL SUPPORT & ALIMONY

Despite what many say, Spousal Support and Alimony are always a consideration and potential outcome in any divorce in Nevada. In Nevada, Spousal Support and Alimony can have a massive impact on your long-term financial health, retirement and earnings capacity. You need an experienced attorney who fully understands the law and how to best position your case.

Spousal Support

Spousal Support is financial support that is awarded by a court during the marriage. Typically, Spousal Support payments are awarded during the divorce proceedings. The court’s goal is often to make sure both parties are on equal footing financially during the divorce. These payments are not long term and will stop at the end of the divorce proceedings.

Alimony

Alimony is financial support that is awarded by a court after the divorce is finalized. There are several factors a judge will consider when awarding alimony. These factors include: the difference income between the spouses, length of the marriage, the education and employability of either spouse, and whether one spouse has a health condition that makes income earning difficult.

The impacts of a Nevada divorce can be life-changing and lifelong. If anything, don’t leave the outcome to chance. You need a trusted divorce attorney by your side. Call us today, we will consider and review all legal options available to best position your case.