Family law lawyers in Scranton, PA, are involved in legal issues that often result from the termination of a marriage or similar relationship. Family law is made up of a body of statutes that govern the legal obligations between people who are connected domestically.
Cases Can Become Emotionally Charged
The cases usually include parties who are related by marriage or blood. However, this practice area can also impact people in more casual relationships. Because breaks can be emotionally charged, the litigants in such cases are normally advised to retain an attorney.
Therefore, family law lawyers such as John T. O’Malley, Attorney at Law, assist clients to file for divorce or separation, including alimony, visitation, child custody, and support. In some instances, spouses who have been married for a short length of time may seek an annulment. The division of property in these kinds of cases is a frequent issue as well.
Prenuptials
With respect to the division of property, each state in the US features established laws that determine the rights of the parties. In some instances, couples who do not agree with some of the rules of default hire family law lawyers to draft prenuptial agreements. Courts generally enforce these contracts upon divorce and allocate the financial support and property in accordance to the agreement.
Abuse Issues
Family law lawyers are also involved in cases that deal with physical and emotional abuse. However, the potential for this kind of behavior is not restricted to current or former marriage partners and their children. Other members in a household, such as an elderly person, are considered in abuse decisions by the court. When allegations of this type are made, restraining orders are usually issued by a judge.
By retaining legal counsel in any of the above instances, you place yourself at an advantage. A lawyer can locate income or assets another party is attempting to hide, present the proper arguments for child support, and decide when it is best to take a case to trial. In uncontested cases, representation is important, especially if you don’t wish to waive essential legal rights. Click here for more details about the experienced family law lawyers in Scranton, PA.
