Family Law
What is family law? Although you may have heard the term many times in the past, you might not know precisely what does and doesn’t constitute a family law matter.
What Is Family Law?
A family law attorney may handle cases involving such matters as:
- Divorce
- Paternity
- Child custody
- Adoption
- Domestic violence
- Legal separation
- Prenuptial agreements
- Postnuptial agreements
- Child relocation after divorce
- Child support
- Alimony
- Child visitation
- Guardianship
Not all family law lawyers handle all these types of cases. Before hiring one, it’s important to confirm they offer the specific services you need.
What Is a Family Law Attorney?
The role a family law attorney plays in a case can vary significantly depending on the circumstances. General ways in which a family law lawyer might help their clients include:
- Reviewing and drafting legal documents
- Negotiating the terms of a divorce, child custody agreement, etc.
- Providing advice based on their understanding of applicable laws (such as divorce laws, paternity laws, etc.)
Some family law attorneys also offer related services. A common example is mediation. In mediation, a neutral third party works to help two parties resolve certain disputes. In the context of family law, for example, an attorney serving as a mediator might help two spouses who are divorcing one another arrive at a child custody arrangement that satisfies all involved.
That’s just one example. Again, the best way to determine if a particular family law attorney is qualified to serve your needs is to meet with them and discuss their services.
How Much Is a Family Law Attorney?
The cost of hiring a family law attorney can vary substantially depending on a range of factors. Typically, a family law lawyer will require a client to pay an upfront fee. They will then charge an hourly rate going forward.
Factors that can influence the cost of a family law attorney include:
- How complex a case is
- An attorney’s experience and track record
- The region in which an attorney operates
- Court fees
- Overheads
Additionally, some cases are more urgent than others. For instance, a case involving domestic violence might be fairly urgent compared to a standard divorce case. If a lawyer needs to prioritize and expedite a case, they may charge more for their services than they normally would.
Work With An Family Law Attorney
Family law cases take many forms. However, they often share a common trait: They can be complicated cases that involve intense emotions.
You don’t have to navigate these types of circumstances on your own. Whether you’re getting a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or addressing any other such matter, hiring the right family law attorney can give you the peace of mind that comes from knowing an expert is on your side. Learn more about what a family law lawyer could do for you by taking the Free Case Evaluation to speak with an independent attorney who subscribes to the website.
