Family law attorneys can handle everything from divorce to child custody laws. Learn how these professionals can help you here.
There are now over 56,900 family law and divorce lawyers across the US. However, few people know family lawyers help with situations outside of divorces. For example, you might need a family lawyer for help with family conflicts or spousal support.
Not sure if you need to hire a family lawyer? Here are a few ways a family attorney can help you.
After reading this guide, you can feel prepared for any situation that requires an attorney. Read on to learn more.
Pre- and Post-Nuptial Agreements
Before getting married, consider talking to a family attorney about pre- and post-nuptial agreements. These documents detail which spouse receives what assets during and after a divorce. Your pre-nuptial agreement will outline all property and assets owned between you and your spouse.
In the event that you decide to file for a divorce, the documents will detail what happens to your assets.
It’s important to note that some details aren’t allowable in a pre-nuptial agreement. This includes child custody and child support details.
You can also draft and finalize an agreement after you’re married (in which case, the document is called a post-nuptial agreement).
Create your pre-nuptial agreement before getting married for peace of mind.
Divorce
While over 1,985,000 couples were married in the past year, over 689,300 ended in divorce. A divorce is a dissolution of a marriage contract. If you feel prepared to file for divorce, consult a divorce lawyer first.
They can help you avoid making costly mistakes as you begin the process of filing for your divorce.
An experienced lawyer can offer their expertise as you begin this process. For example, they’ll help you navigate the complex court system.
Without a lawyer, you might make a costly mistake that can impact the outcome of your divorce proceedings. For example, you might fail to gather all financial documents before informing your spouse that you want a divorce. If they refuse to provide you with the necessary documents, you might not receive your fair share of assets.
Consult a lawyer to ensure you receive everything you’re entitled to, including:
- Property
- Alimony
- Child support
- Other assets
Filing for a divorce can become a grueling and emotional process when you try to navigate it alone. A good family lawyer will ease some of the stress off your shoulders. They’ll fight for your best interests throughout every phase of your divorce proceedings.
Leveraging their experience and expertise can help ensure the best possible outcome based on your needs and goals.
Spousal Support
You might need to visit a family lawyer if you need help with alimony and spousal support.
Some states have specific laws in place regulating how much spousal support you can receive, depending on varying factors. However, a judge will make all final decisions regarding spousal support.
Your family lawyer can help by providing the court with information about your marriage and spouse. This information includes details regarding each party’s:
- Ability to work
- Level of accumulated joint debt
- Income
- Conduct
Their legal assistance can help you achieve the best possible outcome. Without a lawyer, you might not receive the alimony or spousal support you need following a divorce.
Adoption
Before adopting, talk to your family lawyer. They’ll ensure you gather and complete the necessary paperwork. Their legal help could ensure you finalize the adoption as soon as possible.
If something goes wrong, your family lawyer can determine what’s impeding the process.
Adoptions usually involve a lot of legal red tape. Don’t try to navigate the complexities of this process alone. Your lawyer’s expertise can help streamline the process, allowing you to experience the joys of parenthood as soon as possible.
Child Custody
Whether you were married or not, discussing child custody with a partner after you split apart can become traumatic. Arguing with your ex could make the process of determining child custody all the more emotional. Look for a family lawyer with experience and expertise in navigating local child custody laws.
The court will determine child custody based on factors such as:
- Stability of each party’s home
- Which parent has the greatest bond with the child
- If there was criminal or drug activity involved
Working with a lawyer could help you meet an agreement without going to court. If you can’t reach an agreement, your lawyer will gather the evidence you need to make a strong case. Their help could ensure you receive custody.
Your lawyer will also ensure you don’t make any of these child custody mistakes.
Child Support
Most states determine how much child support a party needs to provide based on a distinct formula. Your family lawyer can help gather the necessary evidence to determine an appropriate amount. For example, they’ll consider:
- The child’s health care expenses
- Reporting of income
- Allowable deductions
In some cases, family lawyers gather evidence that proves a party was hiding resources.
Calculating an accurate amount for child support will ensure your child receives the financial resources they would have received if both parents were under the same roof.
Abuse and Neglect
If your partner or ex neglects or abuses your child, consider finding a family attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can represent the child or parent.
If you’re accused of abuse or neglect, hiring an attorney will also protect your best interests.
Contact Our Family Law Office Today
Don’t try to navigate the complexities of family law alone. Instead, consider finding a family attorney if you encounter these situations. Their experience and expertise can help ensure the best possible outcome.
They’ll protect your interests every step of the way.
Want to talk to a family lawyer as soon as possible? We’re here to help.
Book a quick guidance call today!
