If you have encountered a difficult or complex situation regarding a spouse, parent, child or other relative, you may have considered seeking legal advice.
Family law solicitors are there to guide you through legal processes attached to divorce, wills, property disputes and child custody, with the aim of ensuring fair outcomes.
In this article, we provide an overview of the various areas that family law solicitors handle and explain how they can assist you.
Divorce and separation
Family solicitors advise on many aspects of divorce from marriages and civil partnerships.
They can not only guide you through the process and timescales, but also ensure that you know your rights throughout.
Financial settlements
How assets are divided is often a point of contention in separation processes. Family law solicitors can represent you in negotiating how savings, pensions, property and businesses are split between you and your spouse.
Spousal maintenance arrangements are another area in which family law solicitors can help to achieve a legally binding settlement that is fair for all.
Child arrangements
Reaching an agreement on children’s arrangements is paramount for the future of the child and both parents. Family solicitors are there to help negotiate custody, as well as visitation rights and parenting plans (a document that outlines how parents will raise their child).
A family solicitor may also apply for a child arrangements order – that is, a legally-binding court order in the best interests of the child – if an agreement cannot be reached amicably.
Domestic abuse and protection
For those in dangerous situations, solicitors can apply for emergency injunctions such as non-molestation orders and occupation orders, keeping you and your children safe.
Unmarried couples and cohabitation
Unmarried couples do not have the same legal protections as married couples. This may create significant complications after the breakdown of a relationship. In this scenario, family solicitors draft cohabitation agreements and help to resolve property disputes.
Agreements and family structure
Family solicitors advise on prenuptial and post-nuptial agreements, helping couples protect their assets before or during marriage.
They also handle complex matters such as adoption and surrogacy, guiding families through these processes.
Dispute resolution
Family solicitors are trained in mediation and collaborative law. They can help you and your spouse reach a workable agreement that avoids the cost and stress of going to court.
Bennett Smith are family law solicitors North Wales can count on. We pride ourselves on client care, a highly personal approach and speedy response times. Call our friendly team today on 01248 671994.
