Family Law: Divorce, Legal Separation, Child Custody and More

Family law is a legal area of the law which deals specifically with domestic relationships and family matters. The term family law refers to the civil law relating to issues such as marriage, divorce, legal separation, child custody and adoption. When dealing with these issues, there are two different types of courts which exist. The civil court and the criminal court. The civil court deals specifically with domestic disputes such as divorce, common-law marriage, minor children and divorce.

Divorce Process: There are a number of different types of divorce such as an uncontested divorce and limited divorce. When it comes to family law issues involving marriage, there are many different aspects to deal with such as spousal abuse, fraud and abuse, adultery, desertion and child custody. When it comes to filing for divorce the parties will enter into a legally binding agreement. Once this is done the divorce decree is prepared and filed with the court. This final step is what takes the longest time of any legal proceedings.

 

The legal issues that face families on a daily basis are enormous. There are issues regarding child custody, divorce, spousal abuse, spousal support, visitation rights and more. When it comes to divorce proceedings in some areas or for particular parties some areas have specific laws. In other areas of family relationships are taken care of by the local social services department. Either way divorce and legal issues are a day to day occurrence.

 

Same-Sex Divorce: Today same-sex marriage is illegal in many parts of the world. When a couple chooses to get married, it can be extremely difficult if one partner believes that they are being cheated on. If you or your partner is seeking a divorce or legal advice same-sex divorce is not uncommon. Many same-sex couples prefer to remain married rather than try to work out a civil union and then get married again.

 

Legal Separation: If you or your spouse is seeking a legal separation from each other there are several things that must be addressed. These include the division of assets, support and child custody. In some cases couples may choose to remain married under the understanding that eventually they will reunite. However, the couple may face the possibility of a judge denying their request for legal separation. As soon as the legal separation process begins it is important for the couple to ensure that all proceedings are carried out lawfully.

 

Criminal Law: When a family or domestic dispute does not involve child custody or child protection issues but involves any criminal conduct, then family law attorneys consider these types of cases to be criminal cases. Any criminal law case requires a competent criminal law attorney. There are many criminal lawyers who specialize in family law issues and may handle various criminal cases throughout their career. It is extremely important that when you or a loved one goes to court that an experienced attorney is present and representing your best interests.