Family law is an area of legal practice that handles an array of issues related to families. There are some areas of family law that are more well-known than others.
It is essential that you understand what this area of law encompasses if you are looking for legal help. You always want to work with an attorney that practices the area of law that applies to your situation.
Basic Definition
The American Bar Association defines family law as the field of law covering family-related issues, such as divorce, adoption, and child custody. It includes issues related to marriage and relationships.
Type of Family Law Issues
In general, any legal issue involving domestic relationships will fall under family law. Here’s a look at some common family law issues.
Custody
Custody can relate to divorce or not. It can include determining paternity and deciding visitation. It may also involve adoptions and declaring parents unfit.
Divorce
Perhaps the most common area of family law is divorce. If you want to end your marriage, it is a legal process. It can be beneficial to hire a Jacksonville family law firm to assist you with properly filing your case.
Within a divorce, there are additional issues to resolve. These include child support, child custody, property division, and spousal support. It also includes modifications of orders.
Special family situations
There are some family situations that may require legal assistance or special help. These include LGBT families, who may need help with legally securing parental rights. LGBT couples may also have additional issues when they divorce due to the limited time same-sex marriage has been legal.
Military divorces are another special situation as there are many aspects to this type of divorce that civilian couples do not have. Often couples have to deal with issues related to moving a lot and custody arrangements with the active-duty parent.
Wrapping Up
Family law is an area of the legal system that can be full of emotions. People seeking help for family law issues may be facing a divorce or trying to manage custody issues. They may be in a complex situation or have special needs. Whatever the case, this is the area of law in which relationship-related legal issues often fall.