What is Family Law?
If you’re thinking of divorce, you need to know about family law. Don’t panic though. We’re here to help you.
It’s a sad situation, but it happens. So many couples decide to split up after Christmas. It’s a new year and they decide it’s time for a fresh start. If you have read our articles about how to prepare for divorce, you already know that you need to build a strong team around you, including a family law solicitor. However, once the word ‘law’ comes into the conversation, things suddenly sound more serious. There is no need to worry. In this article, we’ll explain the ins and outs of family law. You’ll soon see that family law is there to help you.
The definition of family law
The official definition of family law is the set of laws and pieces of legislation that govern issues around family relationships.
Family law is important because it’s where the law interacts with everyday life. Most of us may never have to deal with criminal law or any other branch of the legal system in our lives, but there is a good chance we may have to get involved with family law at some point.
Also, family law can have a significant impact on people’s emotions, particularly where children are involved, so family law practitioners have to possess special skills.
Divorce
Divorce is the most well-known aspect of family law. Most family law solicitors will spend the bulk of their time dealing with divorce and its consequences.
When you get divorced, there are many legal matters that need to be dealt with. A family law solicitor will manage the process for you.
They’ll look after the financial settlement, living arrangements and contact arrangements if you have children, as well as any other disputes that may arise. If court orders are necessary to safeguard your interests, financial or otherwise, your family law solicitor will handle it.
The goal for a family law solicitor dealing with a divorce is to reach a settlement with the other party, keeping the dispute out of the courtroom. They will negotiate with the other party’s solicitor to try and find an acceptable resolution. However, if the divorce does end up in court, the solicitor will be there every step of the way, helping the barrister argue your case.
Not just divorce
While divorce is by far the most notable area of family law, it’s not the only area where a family law solicitor can help you. Other aspects of family law include:
Legal help for couples who aren’t married – while couples who are not married do not have rights over each other’s assets, legal disputes often arise when couples split up. For example, dealing with a shared property or arrangements involving children.
Pre-nuptial agreements – a family law solicitor can also be there for you before you get married. If you want to take precautions to protect the property you own in the event of your marriage ending in divorce, a pre-nuptial agreement signed by both parties can help you.
Dissolutions – A dissolution is the same as a divorce, but for civil partnerships. Family law solicitors can help you in this regard.
Domestic violence – a family law solicitor can help you protect yourself if you feel you are in danger from a violent partner. For example, they can arrange court injunctions to keep them away from you.
Find out more
At Couchman Hanson, our solicitors genuinely care about getting the best OUTCOME for you. We’re highly professional, with ‘city’ level talent and experience, but also friendly and welcoming. Everything we do fits with our values of integrity, honesty and authenticity.
Call 01428 722189 or visit our Family Law page to find out more