Why You Need Family Solicitors

When family relationships undergo change, or they break down, and separation is inevitable, there are enormous repercussions on the parties involved and the larger social system.

This may give rise to important issues such as:

· division of assets and liabilities
· spousal or partner support
· child custody and care
· wills
· enforcement of court orders
· grandparents’ rights
· adoption
· co-habitation
· prenuptial arrangements
· same-sex relationships
· domestic abuse
· divorce
· financial settlements
· management of international assets

These aspects have to be managed and dealt with carefully and in keeping with the law.

Do You Really Need A Solicitor?

Under the law, people are not required to obtain legal advice.

You have the right to attend court yourself, talk directly to the judge, magistrate or jury.

You are free to process legal applications, submit the necessary paperwork and fees, represent yourself in court and negotiation processes.

Such persons are known as “litigants in person.” This may save you a considerable amount of money/time.

The law also allows you to have someone to accompany you in court, take notes and give you advice. However, they cannot speak on your behalf, interfere in the proceedings, or sign any documents on your behalf. The judge must permit you to have such a person (known as a McKenzie Friend) with you.

However, there are certain major risks involved in representing yourself and/or having only a McKenzie Friend with you.

Family law solicitors Dublin and elsewhere are trained and qualified. They can assess the situation objectively and anticipate what the other side would come up with. Family disputes can quickly turn ugly and acrimonious. You could be faced with false charges, trumped-up evidence, or allegations.

Divorce solicitors can ensure that your rights are protected. They have the experience to know how to present evidence in front of judges in a logical and organized way to ensure the best outcome.

There are complicated court procedures to be followed, such as drafting, filing, and documentation. There are deadlines to meet, matters of jurisdiction, and professional standards. Solicitors/Barristers are familiar with court procedures and have in-depth knowledge of similar cases and rulings. They can help you understand the complexities of the law, be aware of your legal rights and options, and remove some uncertainty.

Many couples may share business interests. Divorce would mean having to split their finances equitably. There may be complicated funding histories, where the funds and capital were invested by one party but not the other.

Finally, a divorce mediation lawyer and child custody lawyers can help to defuse stormy meetings and interactions between the parties. This reduces your own stress and anxiety and ensures that the process goes swiftly and smoothly, without the interference of extraneous emotions, even if the positions adopted by both are far apart.

Many of these issues can be settled amicably without going to court. This would minimize legal costs, time, effort, and emotional strain. Only the final decree has to be achieved. Experienced legal professionals can ensure that all court orders are fully enforced, and there will be no further claim in the future or even after death by heirs.