Family law is a broad category. Are you contemplating marriage? Are you married to someone? Were you married to someone? Do you have children or grandchildren who are under the age of eighteen? Are you taking care of a child under the age of eighteen? If you answered ‘yes’ to any of these questions, you may have a Family Law issue.

Let’s narrow it more, then. Do you want to spell out what property belongs to you, and what property belongs to your future spouse? Do you want to divide the property you own with your spouse when you split? In regards to your children, where will they live, go to school, worship? What kind of medical care will they receive? Who will support them financially? How much time will your children spend with each parent? Will the child’s grandparents have a right to spend time with them? A family lawyer will help resolve any and all of these issues.

When should you contact a lawyer? As soon as possible. Time is often a factor in family law issues: how long someone has lived in a particular state or county, and how long a living arrangement has existed, are just two examples.

As mentioned above, where the members of the family live is an important factor, because family law is handled by county courts, be it the County Friend of the Court, the District Court, or the Circuit Court. If any of these Courts issue an unacceptable decision, then an appeal may be had at the next higher level.

Some issues, especially when there is no major disagreement between married couples and parents can be resolved by filing an agreement with the proper Court, and a hearing to finalize the agreement. When there isn’t agreement, the process is much more complex, and this is where the Family Lawyer can really make a difference, taking the proper steps and presenting the most persuasive argument to the Referee or Judge.

Since such Family Law situations are often connected with strong emotions for the people involved, they can be very stressful for everyone involved. I am keenly aware that lawyers can be a positive or negative factor in such situations, so I take care to be a zealous advocate for you without throwing gas on the fire!

Don’t let your Family Law issue drive you up the wall. Call Paul!

Paul can help. In the initial consultation, he will discuss your needs, and identify possible solutions. Then he work on a plan, which may range from Paul negotiating with the other party, to full-blown court action, to appealing a bad ruling.

To resolve those difficult family situations, call Paul!