Family law deals with a wide range of legal problems concerning households and family relations. These kinds of cases very often encompass personal and intimate matters like divorce, child custody, and domestic violence, and can have long-term consequences for everyone involved. Learning about the different kinds of family law cases can assist you in being prepared for what to anticipate, along with when to obtain professional legal advice. The following are some of the most prevalent kinds of family law cases.

Divorce and Legal Separation

Divorce is the most common family law case in which a marriage is legally dissolved. In divorce, couples need to decide how they will divide property and debt and, in a few cases, arrange for spousal support (also called alimony). Other spouses choose legal separation, where they may live apart and negotiate financial and parenting matters without legally ending the marriage.

A short distance northwest of Denver, Broomfield offers a suburban setting with convenient proximity to both urban and natural attractions. If you live in Broomfield and you are planning to go through a divorce, you must hire a Broomfield family attorney as they can lead you through the process while protecting your rights and interests.

Child Visitation and Custody

Child custody proceedings determine where a child will live and who will make critical decisions for him or her. Physical custody (where a child will live) and legal custody (who will make school and health-related decisions) are the two general types of custody.

The parents can either have joint or sole parental custody. Visitation schedules allow the parent without physical custody to maintain a relationship with the child. Custody hearings can be complicated and emotional, especially where there is no agreement between the parents.

Child Support

In case of divorce or separation of parents, one parent may be required to pay child support to help provide for the cost of living of the child. Child support typically depends on the income of the two parents, the number of children, and how much time each parent spends with the child.

The payments assist in meeting needs such as food, clothing, and schooling. Support orders can be modified in case of a change of circumstances, and unpaid support can be enforced by courts via judicial proceedings.

Adoption and Guardianship

Adoption is the legal process of becoming the permanent parent of a child. Stepparent adoption, agency adoption, and international adoption are just some of the numerous kinds of adoption, each with various rules and procedures.

Guardianship, on the other hand, gives a person legal permission to care for a child in the event that the parents can’t. Depending on the circumstances, it may either be temporary or permanent. Adoption and guardianship proceedings, similarly, require court adjudication and the advice of attorneys.

Domestic Violence and Restraining Orders

Family law also protects the victims of abuse or domestic violence. The victims can request restraining orders that will protect them and their children from the abuser.

Restraining orders can affect child custody and visitation. Courts will issue emergency restraining orders in emergency circumstances, providing immediate protection until the hearing can be held.

Conclusion

Family law disputes touch virtually every aspect of private life, from parenthood, marriage, protection, and maintenance. As these matters are typically emotionally and legally complex, it is advisable to deal with the person who understands your case.

An experienced family lawyer can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and devise a course of action in difficult times.