Business Details
Trusted Family Law Attorney in South Bend
Zappia Zappia & Stipp has provided dedicated legal representation in South Bend, Indiana for over 30 years. Specializing in family law, mediation, and estate planning, our practice combines deep legal expertise with personalized client care. We assist clients in navigating complex legal matters such as divorce, custody, child support, and guardianship, leveraging a network of professionals including CPAs and financial advisors to achieve optimal outcomes. Our commitment to excellence has earned recognition as Best Divorce Attorney in South Bend for three consecutive years.We prioritize long-term client well-being, offering post-divorce guidance in financial and estate planning. Jessica Ribaudo, our paralegal, brings organizational expertise and a passion for advocacy, particularly for autistic individuals. Our practice adapts to evolving legal landscapes, including LGBTQ rights and special needs guardianships, ensuring comprehensive support for all families.
Services
Family Law
Mediation Services
Estate Planning
Guardianship Cases
Adoption Law
Divorce Representation
Child Custody
Child Support
Property Division
LGBTQ Legal Rights
Highlights and features
- We offer 30+ years of family law experience in Michiana
- Our attorney is a Certified Family Law Specialist
- We provide personalized guidance through complex legal processes
- Our team includes a paralegal with special needs advocacy expertise
- We've been voted Best Divorce Attorney in South Bend for three consecutive years
Associations and certifications
- Family Law Certification Board
What people say
Expert legal guidance
Personalized support
30+ years experience
Best Divorce Attorney awards
Special needs understanding
Services
Family Law
Our family law practice handles divorce, custody, and child support cases with personalized attention. We guide clients through complex legal processes while prioritizing family well-being. Our experience includes high-asset divorces and special needs considerations.
Mediation Services
We offer mediation as a cost-effective alternative to litigation for divorce and family law matters. With 24 years of family law experience, we facilitate agreements while reducing emotional stress for all parties involved.
Estate Planning
Our estate planning services include wills, power of attorney, and healthcare directives. We help clients protect their assets and ensure their wishes are honored regarding property distribution and guardianship of minor children.
Guardianship Cases
We assist with establishing guardianship for minors and incapacitated adults. Our services cover the legal process for obtaining guardianship and creating appropriate care arrangements for individuals with special needs.
Adoption Law
We guide clients through the adoption process, including step-parent adoptions and private placements. Our practice ensures all legal requirements are met while supporting families during this significant life transition.
People
Mario J. Zappia
Attorney at Law
Mario J. Zappia has practiced family law in South Bend for over 30 years. Recognized as Best Divorce Attorney in 2020-2022, he serves on the St. Joseph County Bar Association board and specializes in complex family law matters.
Jessica Ribaudo
Paralegal
Jessica Ribaudo has served as paralegal since 2016, supporting family law cases with organizational expertise. She advocates for autistic individuals and manages office operations while maintaining the firm's digital presence.
Questions
Do I need an attorney for divorce proceedings?
Yes, due to complex legal considerations regarding property division, child custody, and financial obligations that require professional guidance.
What is the consultation fee?
Our initial consultation fee is $200, providing direct access to our attorney's 30+ years of legal expertise.
What types of custody arrangements exist?
We handle legal custody (decision-making authority) and physical custody (residence arrangements), including joint custody agreements.
When does child support end in Indiana?
Typically at age 19, though exceptions exist for emancipation or special needs circumstances requiring legal evaluation.
Do you handle LGBTQ family law cases?
Yes, we provide comprehensive legal support for same-sex couples including marriage, divorce, and second-parent adoption matters.
Can you assist with special needs guardianships?
Yes, we specialize in creating legal frameworks for autistic individuals and other special needs cases requiring ongoing support.
