Hiring a family lawyer is usually a decision of last resort because it means that a situation in the family cannot be resolved by any other method. That means you need to retain a family lawyer who knows how to tread carefully around sensitive subject matter and get the job done as efficiently as possible. The end result should be a resolution that leaves everyone involved satisfied enough that they can put the familial conflict behind them and move on with their lives.
If you live in the Michigan area and are ever in a situation where a family lawyer is the only possible solution, then you should contact Ash & Ash Legal Group. Their lawyers will fight to get your legal problems resolved in your favor as quickly and efficiently as possible.
When Do I Need a Family Lawyer?
As the name suggests, a family lawyer is necessary when a dispute within the family becomes irresolvable by any other means. Once that becomes the case, legal intervention is the next step. There are many familial conflicts that can necessitate the involvement of a family lawyer, including the following:
- Divorce, Annulment, or Separation – These can involve marriage, civil unions, or domestic partnerships
- Prenuptial Agreements
- Child Support
- Spousal Support
- Child Custody
- Paternity
- Adoption
- Emancipation of Minors
- Domestic Violence
- Child Abuse
These types of cases can be difficult to resolve with just the family members because they can become quite complex, plus there are understandably intense emotions at play as well. That is why legal intervention may be necessary; a lawyer has the legal expertise that is needed to untangle complex cases and the sensitivity to treat the case and all the people involved in it with respect and discretion.
What Does a Family Lawyer Do?
Family law deals with the legal issues that can arise because of family and domestic relations. There a broad array of issues, as mentioned in the previous paragraph, but some lawyers will focus on a particular specialty, such as divorce. However, many family attorneys have a wide array of skills that are not limited to one particular practice. That can include the drafting and negotiation of contracts and other legal documents such as wills, the offering of legal counsel to their clients, and dispute resolution.
Some of the documents family lawyers can draw up also includes prenuptial and postnuptial agreements. That means their skill set also includes managing sensitive interpersonal matters and emotionally volatile situations. And, of course, family attorneys will represent their clients in court if that becomes necessary. So even family lawyers that focus on a niche area are adept at a wide range of different skills that can help them serve their clients well.
What To Expect When Working With a Family Lawyer
Once you retain a family lawyer, they will offer you advice on your case and give you an honest assessment of how strong it is and your chances of success. That means they will let you know whether taking your case to court is a viable option or not. Your family lawyer will closely guide you through all the steps needed to file the papers and documents associated with your case.
In addition to the specific representation and advice that your case requires, you should expect the basic services that you would get from any lawyer. That means there should be a clear line of communication between you and your lawyer, that they let you know early on how much the case will cost, clearly explain any new developments in the case, give you an estimate of how long your case could take, and help to prepare you for a deposition or trial.
If You Need a Family Lawyer, Then Choose The Right One
If the time ever comes that you need a family lawyer, then be careful to choose the right one for you. Decide whether you want a general family lawyer or one who focuses on a specific area of family law. Get referrals from friends or family who have gone through a situation similar to the one you are going through now. Your state’s Bar Association should be able to help with recommendations as well. Once you have a list of family lawyers, be sure to conduct in depth personal interviews so that you know for sure whether they are the right choice for you. A family dispute is always difficult, but the right lawyer can make it a little easier.
