Last Updated on January 4, 2016 by Bharat Saini
Family or Matrimonial Law, often handled by a family law attorney, refers to the legal problems and issues that arise within a family and domestic unit. Through family law courts, you can get married, adopt, get a divorce, and deal with cases like child custody and other similar matters.
Family lawyers help clients by providing them information about marriage, divorce, child custody, reproductive rights, adoption, paternity domestic violence and other relevant things. Your attorney can give you legal tips, law statements and access to other resources that you can use when it comes to making the right decisions for you and your family.
What Does Family Law Help With?
Family law covers civil matters and procedures related to legal domestic issues. There are many things that can fall under family law. The most important aspect of family law is division of property during the life of or after the death of the head of the family.
There are various family cases that might require you to visit a lawyer’s office. Some of the most common problems you face and need a lawyer include:
- Marriage and Domestic Living– The eligibility requirements of a marriage such as age and gender are mostly controlled by the state laws. Different states have different laws so when you are getting marriage then be sure to consult a lawyer. Make sure that you get a lawyer who is familiar with the updated laws about marriage and partnerships. A well-informed lawyer might provide you with effective solutions.
- Divorce – A divorce is the end of a marriage. They can take place in the family court with and without legal representation. Sometimes, there are cases where you are told to pay a certain sum to your former partner until they are financially stable. In order to get your rights fulfilled, it is important to have proper legal representation by your side.
- Child Support and Custody – After your divorce, the court has to decide what is in the best interest of the children involved. Courts can often intervene and decide the child’s living arrangement, schooling and financial support.
- Emancipation and Parental Liability – As a parent, you are required to take care of your children until they are of eighteen years of age. Afterwards, they can get emancipated and go off on their own.
- Domestic Violence – This can take a very nasty turn if it is not dealt with immediately. It is best to take such matters to court and resolve the matter before someone ets hurt.
When to Call a Family Lawyer?
As with other sectors of the law, the time to get a lawyer depends on your specific situation. For example, you require a lawyer to get married, and to sign the prenuptial agreement.
Families benefit from hiring a lawyer in many ways. Emotions often run high during a divorce which is why the involved individuals require someone who fights for their rights in a smart and legal manner. Getting a lawyer gets the expertise they require to negotiate issues and resolving arguments becomes easier. Once you hire a lawyer to represent you or a member of your family, get yourself the help you need.
Edith Douglas, the author of this article has worked for a number of legal firms, gaining knowledge to help families. Her work is often supported by arguments made by expert attorneys such as those found at djpsolicitors.com.