In this issue, we will attempt to provide a brief explanation of family law and provides links to other informative articles on the subject. Simply click on these links to read more.
Family Law is a phrase that is commonly used when referring to the legal field that regulates and resolves family relationships and disputes and, a family attorney is similarly an attorney that specialises in assisting parties to regulate and resolve their family relationships and disputes, even by referring these matters to court on behalf of their clients.
Before reading our Guide to Survive a Divorce, we suggest that you consider the following important issues.
How Do I Choose a Family Attorney?
A successful family attorney is required to have in-depth knowledge and experience of all matters relating to family law including matrimonial property systems, antenuptial agreements, maintenance, cohabitation agreements, divorce actions and domestic violence. Since most Family Law matter will end up in court in one way or another he/she will further be required to be a well-versed litigation attorney who can easily navigate his way around courts and our procedures.
As family legal matters are not isolated from other legal disciplines he/she will also be required to have sound knowledge in Wills and Estates and Property Law.
Mahatma Gandhi once said that “If science becomes all technique and technology, it quickly degenerates into man against humanity”. The same applies to legal practitioners. We firmly believe that legal services should always be rendered with sympathy, empathy and a basic understanding of our client’s needs, even their emotional needs, specifically as far as family matters are concerned.
Spouses in same-sex marriages should further ensure that your attorney appreciates the unique dynamics of your relationship.
How Much Will My Divorce Cost Me?
Legal costs during litigation may differ substantially from case to case and from court to court. It is advisable to discuss legal costs with your attorney and to obtain an estimate of fees from him/her to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
How Long Will My Divorce Case Take?
Once again the time to finalise a matter will differ substantially from case to case. Factors such as whether it will be opposed or unopposed in which court it will be moved etc will play a significant role in establishing the time it may take to finalise your case. Your attorney will be in a better position to discuss this with you once you present him with all the facts.
