There have been a few times in my life that I have needed a lawyer, and during those times, their help was invaluable. I worked with lawyers during the custody battle for my kids, when I dissolved the partnership for my business and after I suffered an injury at work. In this blog, I plan to write about the law from a range of angles. I may share posts inspired by my personal experiences, what's popular in the news or what strikes my fancy when I'm writing. I have a daughter, Oliva. I manage a medical clinic, and I love blogging. I hope you like the results. My name is Melinda, and thanks for reading!
When most think of family law, there first thought is proceedings that work toward the dissolution of a marriage. Although divorce and family mediation are a large aspect of family law, this not the only situation that you may require the services family lawyers. The following are some of the other situations where you may need to hire a family lawyer.
Adoption proceedings
If you are looking to adopt a child, you will need to ensure the process is carried out within the legal requirements. As such, you will need a lawyer to guide you through the process and help you navigate the system without errors. Adoption proceedings tend to involve a lot of paperwork. In addition to this, you need to prove that you are fit enough to raise the child that you are looking to adopt. Having a lawyer to ensure all your paperwork is filled and filed accordingly as well as coach you on how best to present your strengths as a potential parent could go a long way in hastening the adoption process.
It should be noted that if you are a step-parent looking to adopt the children of your spouse, it would also be in your best interests to hire a family lawyer. The legal processes for this type of adoption differ from conventional adoption and you would still need to meet various legal requirements.
Filing a restraining order
If you are embroiled in an altercation with a family member or a spouse, then you may need to seek some form of legal protection against them. One of the best ways of doing so is by filing for a restraining order. Although getting a temporary restraining order is simple, choosing to opt for a permanent one can be a complex process. In addition to this, without the proper legal counsel, the process can be long and drawn out. Instead of pursuing a permanent restraining order on your own, do so with the aid of a family lawyer.
Custody applications
Whether married or not, if you have a child or children with another individual, child custody has to be assigned when the partnership is broken. In other cases, you may have gotten married and adopted your partner's child from a previous relationship. In these instances, the law also recognizes you as a legal parent and therefore, it would be within your legal rights to try to get custody of this child too. Child custody is granted in various forms and it could become an embittered experience if you do not have a family lawyer to represent you and your interests.
Share