The concept of family law might seem weird to some. After all, why would we need laws to deal with our own families? They belong to our flesh and blood. However, whenever people live together in domesticity, it is important that they have some legal rights in case a dispute should arise.
So, let’s dig in a little more to understand these family matters!
What is Family Law?
Family law concerns a body of legal statutes and precedents that determine the responsibilities of people who are in domestic relationships. Laws covered under family law affect those who are related by blood, those related by marriage, and those related through more distant and/or casual domestic relationships. So, if you are looking for laws that govern your relational responsibilities with your spouse, sibling, or parents, family law would be the place to look!
What are Issues that Come Under Family Law?
A lot of legal issues can crop up when dealing with family. Most of these cases stem from the termination of relationships, both marriage and romantic. If someone finds themselves filing for separation or divorce, they would do so under family law. The laws relating to this govern the intricacies of alimony, along with child custody, visitation, and support, in cases where the couple has children. In some cases, where the couple has only been in a relationship for a short period, they may only require an annulment, which is also covered under family law. Additionally, this bracket may make special provisions for same-sex couples.
Family law also deals with matters relating to property between two parties. Couples before marriage may opt for a prenuptial agreement, where all the terms relating to property and possessions are laid out. However, if this is not the case then family law lays down a set of statutes that concern how property will be divided once the couple split.
Family law also contains legalities involving the prevention of abuse, physical and emotional. Domestic abuse can occur between married partners, romantic partners, siblings, parent-child, or any other people who are engaged in a domestic relationship. In order to protect the rights of those suffering from abuse, the law lays down charges to convict the guilty. Elderly abuse is another such issue that is considered very seriously by the court. You can also get a restraining order issued against a family member under this type of law.
Why Do We Need Family Lawyers?
Family matters can be emotionally grueling to deal with. A family lawyer will protect your rights, unearth evidence pertaining to your case, and help you present your arguments rationally. Retaining legal representation when dealing with such situations might be the best option and provide a legal advantage for you! This article is not intended as legal advice. If you need a lawyer to help you in your family law case, look no further than Ward K Johnson! Contact us to speak with a highly skilled family lawyer about your case.