People typically consult a Family Lawyer during an emotionally difficult time in their relationship. In family law matters, people who go to see lawyers are family members who may end up on opposite sides of litigation. If there are children involved, you may have to continue a relationship with your separating partner after any litigation has been resolved. It may also be your first exposure to the legal system.
During the meeting with your Family Lawyer, you will be asked several questions regarding your matter and the family lawyer will explain the possible approaches to resolve the dispute in the most amicable manner.
Family litigation can be time consuming, stressful and expensive so it is important to use your resources wisely.
During a family dispute, there are several stages and ways to resolve. The family lawyer must determine which family law legislation to apply. The applicable legislation in any given case will depend on the marital status of the parties, the nature of the issues to be resolved, and the court selected to hear any litigation, should litigation be the way.
There are other ways to resolve a family dispute that may not require litigation, and it is a priority to determine whether these options are available to the parties. For example, family law matters can be solved through negotiation, mediation, or arbitration.
Some matters are suitable to be resolved in the earlier stages, and it is a good idea to seek legal advice earlier rather than later and before the matter complicates and becomes more expensive to resolve.
Family law matters may include, among others:
- Divorce and Separation
- Custody and Access
- Spousal Support
- Child Support
- Division of Property and Debt
- Variation of orders for the care of children and support
- Adoption
- Parentage and Fertility
- Family Violence
