When you get married and start a family, the last thing you give any thought to is that you will need a family lawyer somewhere down the road. However, as a popular expression reminds us, life happens.
When life doesn’t go the way you had planned, it’s a good idea to consult with one of the lawyers Essendon locals rely on for assistance on a variety of family issues. This post takes a look at the benefits of having a family lawyer in your corner when you need it most.
Navigate Life’s Downs With the Right Lawyer
When it comes to dealing with divorce, separation, custody battles and even domestic violence it may not always be possible to resolve issues by yourself. The main reason for this is that you and the other parties are emotionally involved in the situation, making it difficult to remain objective. With this in mind, our legal experts have compiled a list of the most common ways a family lawyer can assist you.
1. Easy Access to Expert Legal Knowledge
The average Australian has very little legal knowledge about working through a divorce without being shortchanged. This is because your soon-to-be-ex spouse will no longer have your best interests in mind.
Another aspect to keep in mind is that family law often varies between states, making it quite challenging for a layperson to get a handle on everything concerned. A typical example of this is all the red tape associated with having the right documents signed and filed or submitted by a specific date. This can be challenging if your ex-partner refuses to do their part.
Family lawyers are experts at the ins and outs of family law and will know how to simplify the relevant processes to best suit everyone involved. With a lawyer only a phone call away, you’ll be able to check on the progress of your case and also get advice when you need it.
2. Can Help You Find Support If Needed
Not all divorces and breakups are amicable. In fact, some breakups can get very ugly and may even be traumatic, depending on the circumstances. While adults may be able to handle the processes and motions to get everything finalised, this may not be the case for any children involved.
Your lawyer will be able to suggest professionals who can assist with emotional support. They can also help you focus on the facts and not the emotional aspect of the situation. This can go a long way toward keeping you levelheaded.
3. The Right Experts Help You Save Money
The thought of a lawyer saving you money may sound counterproductive, especially since most people think getting a lawyer will cost a fortune. However, if the other person has a lawyer, you may end up getting the short end of the stick. This is especially if the matter ends up going to court.
Your family lawyer will be able to advise you of the right steps to follow during the process. They will also ensure that you are treated fairly throughout the process. While it’s true that there may be some type of financial implication, you will be left with peace of mind knowing that everything has been resolved legally and as quickly as possible.
4. Can Assist With Police Restraining Orders When Needed
In some extreme cases, divorces and separations happen with domestic violence as the underlying reasons. In these instances, one of the parties may slow down the process or ignore it completely. This can be traumatic and even dangerous for the other family members. To ensure everyone’s safety, your lawyer may suggest a restraining order.
5. Ensure the Correct Procedures are followed for Child Custody
It’s not uncommon for partners to fight over the children. Oftentimes, one parent will use the children to try and hurt the other parent. When this happens, the children may be left feeling as though they have to choose between their parents. Depending on the age of the children, this can be confusing and difficult for them to process.
Lawyers will attempt to devise the best type of arrangement that benefits the children. In this case, legal documents will need to be drawn up to ensure that all parties stick to the arrangement. Your lawyer will be able to assist you with this and will also be able to advise you of the steps to follow if the arrangement is breached by the other party.
Final Thoughts
Not all divorces and separations are drawn out and ugly. However, consulting with a family lawyer will help you deal with the issues that go along with trying to find closure once everything is finalised. They will also ensure that you are protected in terms of the law.
Not only will they help you deal with custody issues, but they will also provide legal advice about finances and splitting of assets. Having the right lawyer at your side will help you end one chapter of your life and find the tools to begin another!