Family law encompasses many subjects, all dealing with domestic relationships and the children born as a result of these relationships. When family matters must enter a courtroom to be resolved, family law is what governs which procedures, regulations, and rules apply. This breakdown of them will offer some clarity if you need legal assistance for a domestic matter.
Before Marriage
Family law can apply even before a couple enters into a marriage or another domestic partnership. A prenuptial agreement signed by both partners legally clarifies the financial intentions of each party. This offers financial protection to each party in the event of a future separation or divorce.
Marriage, Other Unions, and Property
Marriage falls under the topic of family law. However, living together also falls under this category. Depending on the state you live in, same-sex unions will also come under the family law designation.
Should a marriage or other union deteriorate and you find yourself filing for divorce or getting an annulment, this will also be a family matter. Property acquired during the marriage, as well as alimony payments, will need to be settled fairly, and these issues are addressed in court if the parties cannot reach a settlement otherwise.
Children
Along with domestic partnerships, children are also part of family law. Couples who wish to adopt children or who have children via surrogacy will need to adhere to family law regulations. The protection of children against neglect and abuse, as well as matters relating to juvenile offenses and their adjudication, is also included here.
Reproductive rights and the paternity of a child are both subjects of family law. The custody agreement and visitation are typically sorted in a courtroom setting, and visitation may or may not require supervision, depending on the circumstances of the parental relationship. This is also true when documents relating to these matters must be modified.
Monetary Matters Related to Children
When a couple’s domestic union dissolves, the parent with custody is entitled to child support payments, which are determined in family court. These payments are meant to help the parent meet those financial obligations related to caring for the child.
The Rights of Family Members
The direct relatives of parents, as well as the parents themselves, all have certain rights with regard to the children of dissolved unions. Family law helps ensure these rights are protected and adequately represented in court.
Family Law Is Complex
Every case has its own specific circumstances and challenges that require expert knowledge to resolve. A separation from spouse requires the rights of each party in a family law case to be supported to the fullest extent, property to be fairly divided, and the amount of support received to be fair for all parties.
The attorneys at Joseph A. Ledwidge PC possess a combined 32 years of expertise in family law. We are prepared to represent clients for all family law matters, from alimony to visitations. Your result matters; get in touch today for a free consultation from a family law attorney.
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