You hire a family lawyer for a handful of viable reasons.
Going through a divorce may be the most popular reason people hire family lawyers; but these legal professionals provide many services. Here are some of the main reasons why you might want to hire a family law attorney.
The Lawyer’s Role in Divorce Action
In family courts, having legal help is essential since these proceedings can become complicated and emotional at times. The lawyer can assist his client in filling out the necessary paperwork, informing him of the case’s progress, and representing him in court.
The documents that must be filed in connection with a divorce may vary from state to state, but they almost always include the following:
- Petition for Dissolution of Marriage or Legal Separation
- Financial Affidavit
- Marital Settlement Agreement or Property Declaration; and
- Decree of Dissolution of Marriage or Legal Separation
The Family Lawyer’s Role in Child Custody and Support Cases
In child custody cases, the lawyer for the parent(s) may be required to help prepare a parenting plan that will include specifics for how each party will spend time with their children as well as custodial arrangements. In cases where children are involved, the family law attorney may also represent his client in a separate child support proceeding.
Family Law Attorney Services in Dissolution of Marriage Cases
In a dissolution of marriage case, sometimes called an “uncontested divorce,” both spouses have agreed on how to divide up their assets and debts. The court will review the agreement and may require some changes before signing off, but the process is much more efficient than a traditional divorce proceeding.
Family Lawyer in Cases of Adoption
In cases involving the adoption of a child, the Family Lawyer @Perth may be required to help draw up paperwork for petitioning court permission to terminate another’s parental rights (as applicable) as well as contracts with the adopting parents.
Parents in this situation also may be required to complete a home study, which is an evaluation performed by a social worker. The purpose of this assessment is to make sure that biological parents are capable of caring for their children and will not abuse or neglect them if another family adopts them. The attorney may be required to represent the parent as part of this process and draft paperwork for it.
Family Lawyer in Cases Involving Child Support, Custody and Visitation
In many cases involving child support or visitation, a family law attorney will help his client draw up court documents to petition the court for custody or visitation. The attorney may also be responsible for representing his client in a hearing before the judge.
Family Lawyer Services in Divorce Proceedings Involving Spousal Abuse or Neglect
In cases involving allegations of domestic violence, spousal abuse, neglect or abandonment, lawyers will work closely with their clients to prepare for a court hearing, including taking the stand and providing evidence that proves their claims.
The Family Lawyer @Perth will likely help his client draft orders for family law proceedings that inform the alleged abuser of any exceptional circumstances affecting the couple’s children and what he must do to rectify them. The attorney may also work with law enforcement to ensure that his client’s safety is being protected.
