Introduction to Family Law: What You Need to Know
Most people never expect to see the inside of a courtroom, let alone file (or respond) to a lawsuit! For most people, being involved in a family law case might be their first (or only) time participating in the legal system. Today, we’ll be explaining what family law is, how it affects you, and what to generally expect from every family law case.
What is Family Law?
Family law is a branch of the law that deals with issues relating to families and relationships—it’s what resolves legal problems between family members, or addresses issues that come up when families change or break up. Family law is the area of the law that governs relationships for people in the following situations:
Marriage: the legal rules around getting marries and what happens if a marriage ends;
Divorce: the legal process for a married couple to end their marriage;
Paternity, Child Custody and Support: legal decisions about the legal parentage of a child (e.g., paternity), where a child will live (e.g., custody) and the amount of financial support a parent will pay for their child’s care (e.g., child support);
Adoption: the legal process through which somebody becomes the permanent legal parent of a child who is not biologically theirs; and
Domestic Violence: Legal protections for people who are being hurt or abused by a family member or dating partner.
So, as you can see, family law affects some of the most personal and important aspect of our lives: who we live with, who takes care of your children, how money is shared when a marriage ends, and ways to protect yourself or your loved ones from harm. Family law sees some of the most emotional and complicated situations, from the joy of welcoming a new family member to the difficulty of going through a divorce or protecting a loved one from harm.
How Does Family Law Work?
In a family law case, if two people (such as two parents) can’t agree on what should happen in a situation, then they usually go to either court or mediation. In court, a judge (a government official with the legal authority to make decisions) listens to both sides and decides what the law says should happen. Sometimes, people can settle issues outside of court through mediation, where a trained, neutral person helps to negotiate an agreement from both sides.
If a case goes to court, the judge’s decision is the law, and both sides must follow it.
Why You Need a Lawyer in Family Law
Family law can be complicated, especially when emotions are involved. Lawyers help people understand their rights and make sure their interests are protected during important decisions like divorce, custody, or financial support. A good lawyer will help you navigate tough, emotional decisions with the support of the legal system, ensure that everyone gets treated fairly, and keep the best interests of your children and your family at the forefront.
Consult with a Skilled Divorce Attorney
If you are contemplating starting a family law suit, or if you are concerned that your spouse or other parent may be contemplating starting a family law suit, you need an experienced team of specialists who understand the law and your rights, keep your interests (and the interests of your children) as the top priority, and provide fervent, impassioned representation in both court and at mediation. Contact us today and we’ll provide you with bespoke guidance and support to address your family law needs.
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