There are numerous types of lawyer, so much so that it can be difficult to determine which type can best help you in your situation. Learning more about these types will better equip you in dealing with different circumstances and problems you may encounter in life.
A family lawyer is one of the most common type of attorney that people seek the help of. To better understand the scope of their specialty, here are some pointers.
What is family law?
Family law refers to the collection of statutes and case precedents that deal with legal responsibilities of people who share a domestic connection. These are mostly people linked by marriage or related by blood. This can also be applied to more distant relations too. Legal help is advised for people with these kinds of disputes especially because of the emotional connection these cases typically have.
According to Encyclopedia Britannica, family law has always had a strong association with property and economic matters, particularly within the family.
What can family lawyers do?
Attorneys that practice family law can represent their clients in proceedings in the family court. They can also draft legal documents that are used in these proceedings including property agreements and court proceedings.
Majority of the cases family lawyers handle have to do with the end of a marriage or divorce. But they also deal with an array of other cases that involves estates, children, and other similar matters.
When do you need a family lawyer?
As mentioned earlier, it’s important that legal counsel is available during matters involving family law because of how emotionally charged these proceedings can become. Here is a list of the most common cases family lawyers are necessary.
- Adoption – This can be a really complex matter because of how state laws can vary. There are also other factors that may affect these proceedings. It’s important to seek legal counsel to make sure all matters are properly dealt with.
- Child Custody and Support – although these matters are usually included in divorce cases, they may also be viewed as separate. As such, consulting with a lawyer during these proceedings is also ideal.
- Divorce – Divorce attorneys are usually employed by each of the divorcing parties to reach a settlement and avoid going to trial. These lawyers are typically adept at dividing marital property, computing spousal support, and coming up with proposals for child custody. They play a vital role during this pivotal time.
- Emancipation – Family lawyers can also help deal with emancipation cases. These cases happen when a minor becomes self-supporting and assumes responsibility of taking care of themselves, without the care of their parents.
- Paternity – Many of the paternity cases happen when mothers attempt to secure child support payments from absent fathers. Fathers can also file for paternity to start or maintain a relationship with their child. This is usually settled with a DNA test.
- Prenuptial Agreements – Family lawyers are also consulted when drafting prenuptial agreements. These agreements govern the future rights of partners to each other’s property after divorce or death.
This is just a list of the most common cases family lawyers handle. There are other matters that they can attend to as well. Consult with a family law specialist to find out whether they are who you need.