Law is a very broad spectrum; commercial, criminal, corporate, maritime law, to name but a few and in this short article, we offer a basic overview of family law, services that are offered by your local family law firm.
- Divorce and separation – Some lawyers specialise in separation and divorce cases, which in itself is a complex field; it is standard for both parties to have legal representation with a divorce and the stakes can be very high. If you think you and your partner cannot remain as a couple, you need to make contact with a local lawyers for family law who represent their clients in family courts.
- Child support/visitations – When there are children involved, their needs should override everything else and a lawyer can help you should you be seeking financial support from an ex-partner and you have children together. Your kids might be living with your partner and they are not receptive to your requests to see your kids and spend quality time with them, this is something a family lawyer can take on and they have your best interests at heart when representing you.
- Estate planning – If you are reasonable wealthy, it makes total sense to protect your wealth; talk to your local family law firm and an expert can help you make all the right moves to protect your assets. Setting up trusts can protect assets and if you want to plan for your retirement, this would be the time to do that. You could set a 5-year investment goal as a benchmark for a secure retirement, plus you could factor in your super, which would be a smart move.
- Contesting a will – If a loved one passed recently and you were expecting something from the estate, which never materialised, you might be able to contest the will. Of course, you would need evidence such as a handwritten letter or a witness to a conversation and your local family lawyer would offer their professional opinion on your chances of a successful outcome.
- Domestic violence – If you are the victim of domestic violence, you should contact a family law firm as soon as you can. Physical or mental abuse should never be tolerated and the lawyer can apply for a restraining order outside of office hours. Australian law protects you against violence of any form; you should not be shy in such a situation and contacting a lawyer is the wise thing to do. Click here for information on the complexities of common law marriage.
- Adoption – In the event you and your partner are unable to have children, you might be interested in adopting a child. The state has very stringent screening processes in place for those who wish to adopt and you are advised to approach a family lawyer who can help to ensure that your application is successful.
As you can see, family law is complex and covers many situations and if you are ever in need of a family lawyer, Google is your best friend.
