Law is such a complex subject that law firms tend to specialise in one particular field; one such field is family law, which covers many legal aspects of family life. When a situation develops and you think you should have legal advice, don’t hesitate to contact a local law firm, where a team of family lawyers are always ready to help in any way they can.

Here are a few reasons you might need the services of a family lawyer.

1. Divorce/separation – The number of marriages and de facto relationships that end reflects the many stresses that modern life entails and when a relationship has run its course, seek legal advice from the very outset, as you can be sure that your ex-partner is doing just that. There are many things to discuss with your ex; asset division and financial support, which is why you need the advice of an experienced Orange County family lawyer to ensure a favourable outcome.
2. Child custody/support – When a relationship reaches an end and there are children involved, both parents should put the kids first every time. Their well-being is paramount in a divorce and your lawyer will ensure that an amicable agreement can be reached regarding child custody and support. In the event an agreement cannot be reached, the matter would be presented to a family court where a judge would make a ruling after hearing both parties.
3. Drawing up a prenuptial agreement – This can be drawn up at the start or at any time during a relationship and this document details asset division in the event of a break-up; a legally binding agreement that cannot be changed by either party. If you are entering into a new relationship and you want to protect your wealth, talk to your partner about having a prenuptial agreement drawn up.
4. Business evaluation – If you and your partner own a business and you wish to reach a settlement, you need to have a family lawyer evaluate the value of the enterprise. In the event that one party’s evaluation doesn’t tally with the other, a family court would eventually decide on a figure after looking at everything. You could lose a lot of money by not contesting a business evaluation and having the business valued by your lawyer should ensure that you receive a fair share of the business.
5. Victim of domestic violence – No person should suffer abuse from a family member and should you be the victim of a violent assault, you can apply for a restraining order on the perpetrator. The family lawyer can be contacted at any time of day or night and they can quickly set the wheels in motion to prevent any attempt at contact, which could lead to further attacks. Here is some useful information on how to prevent intimate partner violence.

A typical family law firm would have a team of specialists that cover all the above and more and should you be in need of legal advice, don’t hesitate to call a local law firm in Orange County.