Family Law Practice Areas

Family law isn't as cut and dry as simply dealing with divorcing couples. It involves several areas, all of which most family law attorneys practice. Family lawyers usually take on cases that include, but are not limited to, divorce, paternity, child custody, child support, Department of Children and Families, dependency, termination of parental rights, domestic injunctions/restraining orders, modifications, and contempt/enforcement. Each case area brings its own level of difficulty and presents a specific set of standards.

When dissolution of a marriage occurs, often the divorcees need a family or divorce lawyer to fight for their best interests. If you are a father looking to gain parental rights or a mother looking to gain support for your child, it is best to get a lawyer for your paternity case. Child custody cases are taken to court so that a judge can decide whether it is best for a child's parents to share custody and in what capacity. Child support is an appropriate court-ordered amount that a parent must pay to their child's guardian to cover relevant expenses. 

The Department of Children and Families investigates allegations of child abuse or neglect.  A dependency action is brought on by the State which initiates an investigation into neglect or abuse of a child. The State can also bring legal action to permanently sever parental rights to a child in termination of parental rights cases. Domestic violence injunctions/restraining orders are presented to the Court as a Petition to grant protection from a person or entity. Court orders can be revised due to a change in circumstances through Modifications. Defense or filing a motion for contempt against another party for violating court orders can be done through contempt/enforcement.

If you are experiencing the need to resolve any of these family law issues, don't hesitate to contact a family lawyer.