What is Family Law?

Family law cases often deal with some of the most sensitive and contentious legal matters, such as child custody, separation, divorce, and alimony. The emotionally-charged nature of family law cases, litigants are strongly advised to seek guidance from a family law attorney. In addition, it would help the litigants to have a basic understanding of family law so they can make informed decisions related to their family law case.

Family Law Overview

Family law is a body of law that consists of case precedents and a body of statutes that govern legal responsibilities between individuals that share a domestic relationship, such as a spouse, parent, or child. The majority of family law cases are connected to a divorce or separation. This includes matters such as visitation, child custody, spousal support, and alimony. Spouses that are only married for a short time can exercise their right to an annulment under family law.

Common Types of Cases That Fall Under Family Law

Divorce

Going through a divorce is a challenging time for all family members. Whether it is a contested or an uncontested divorce, navigating the legal proceedings for a divorce can often be a daunting and overwhelming process. Family law covers all matters related to divorce, including the petition for divorce, residency requirements, and settlement negotiations.

Child Custody

Child custody refers to the physical and legal custody of children when their parents or guardians are divorced or separated. Legal custody refers to the right to make important decisions about the child’s upbringing. Physical custody refers to where the child will reside. Several factors are considered to decide on the child custody arrangement. According to an expert in Overland Park family law, the primary consideration in a child custody case is the best interests of the child.

Adoption

Adoption is another aspect of family law. It involves the legal proceedings for an individual or legal couple to adopt a child that is not their biological child. There are different types of adoption, including stepchild adoption, kinship adoption, open adoption, and closed adoption. A family law attorney can help ensure all the adoptions’ legal requirements are met.

Child Support

Child support is one of the contentious aspects of family law. It refers to the financial support made by the noncustodial parent to support their child or children. The purpose of child support is to ensure both parents contribute to the financial well-being of their children. The child support arrangement depends on several factors, including income, custody, child’s age, and standard of living.

Alimony

Alimony refers to the financial support provided by one spouse to the other after they are divorced or separated. The alimony laws help ensure that the financially disadvantaged spouse gets a reasonable standard of living after they are no longer financially dependent on the spouse. There are various categories of alimony, including rehabilitative alimony and lump-sum alimony.

How Can a Family Law Attorney Help?

Family law cases often have unique circumstances. If you have specific questions about a case related to family law, it is best you consult with a family law attorney. They offer legal expertise and an objective perspective to help you make decisions based on logic rather than emotion. After assessing the facts of the case, they can guide you on whether your dispute will hold weight in court, and you can strengthen your case. They know how the court system works, so they can also help expedite the process.

In addition, an experienced family law attorney can help you avoid costly mistakes that negatively impact your case. The attorney can also help with drafting prenuptial agreements, custody agreements, wills, and other legal documents.