The Role of a Family Attorney in Family Law
A family attorney provides a wide range of services, including handling cases related to divorce, child custody, adoption, same-sex marriage, and domestic violence. They are often sought after when disagreements arise between parents over custody rights or in instances of domestic abuse.
When you’re in need of a family attorney, it’s likely that you’re facing a delicate and emotionally charged situation. Therefore, it’s crucial to find a lawyer who is attentive to your needs and takes them into account. Family attorneys are legal professionals who primarily deal with legal issues that arise within families. In New York City, for instance, a family attorney might be called upon to handle estate planning for a client’s family.
Services Provided by a Family Attorney
Family law is a specialized field that deals with issues related to the family unit, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. A family attorney, specializing in this area, provides legal counsel to clients within this field.
The responsibilities associated with such cases may include ensuring all documents are filed correctly, drafting agreements such as property settlements and spousal support agreements, providing legal advice to clients through various stages of the process, and representing their client in court if necessary. Decisions regarding property division, spousal support arrangements, and child custody agreements are made in these cases.
Family Law and the Pursuit of Justice
Family law can be a complex and intricate area of the law, requiring a deep understanding of the intricacies of various family relationships and their dynamics. It’s crucial to find an experienced attorney who can guide you through this challenging landscape. Knowledge in this area is vital and can make your case smoother and more successful.
Hiring a family attorney from a reputable firm with sound judgment is crucial. This ensures that you receive top-notch services for your case and helps expedite the process with minimal complications. In addition to family law, we also handle estate planning, probate, and provide probate attorney services.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does parental alienation mean?
Parental alienation refers to the behavior of one parent towards their child, which can be either emotional or physical. This behavior can be either intentional or unintentional, and is sometimes referred to as “parental estrangement.”
2. How does the law view parental alienation?
In family law, parental alienation is seen as an interference with visitation or shared parenting. Being the primary caregiver does not necessarily give one parent preference over the other. If a parent is alienating a child from the other parent, the alienated parent can request the court for parenting time.
3. What constitutes a contested divorce?
If you and your spouse are unable to agree on final terms regarding property, alimony, or child support, the divorce is considered contested. In such cases, you will need the assistance of a family law attorney to resolve the dispute. Contested divorces are typically more expensive and take longer to settle.
4. Under what circumstances can a child choose which parent will have custody?
When it comes to children, the court’s primary concern is the child’s best interest. The child’s preference for living arrangements is just one of many factors considered. For instance, a parent can request the court to interview the child to ascertain their preference. The court will then conduct an in-chambers interview.
5. How much child support can I expect?
During our free initial consultation, we can evaluate your situation more thoroughly and provide more accurate answers.
6. Does the court always follow the child’s wishes?
The court’s primary concern is the child’s best interest when determining custody. The court takes into account several factors to determine what is in the child’s best interest.
7. What happens after a divorce is filed?
After a dissolution case is filed, the respondent must be served with the dissolution pleadings. The respondent must be personally served with the Petition and related documents.
8. What are the advantages of mediation?
Mediation is significantly less expensive. A mediator can provide practical perspectives and insights into the rights and needs of both parties involved in the divorce. Mediation documents are private and confidential.
9. Does every family law case go to court?
While some divorce and child-related cases may necessitate a trial, many issues can be resolved outside of court, saving you time, money, and stress. A competent attorney will know how to use negotiation and other legal strategies to resolve your case.
10. How does a court decide whether to order shared parenting or grant custody to one parent?
The court considers the parents’ ability to cooperate and make joint parenting decisions, each parent’s ability to encourage contact and sharing of love with the other parent, and the recommendation of the child’s guardian ad litem, if applicable. If shared parenting is not in the child’s best interests, the court will grant custody to one parent.