In this day and age, it sometimes seems that everyone is litigious. Whilst that is certainly not the case, from time to time people will need legal representation or advice of some sort. Family law is one of the most sought-after sectors of law. Legal forms that offer family law practices likely cover the following types of cases, amongst others:
- Child support issues
- Child custody issues
- Prenuptial agreements
- Taxation
- Superannuation
- Cohabitation agreements
Given the prevalence of family breakdown and child custody issues, it should come as no shock that family law is one of the most congested areas of legal practice.
Advice for Finding a Reliable Family Lawyer
There is a multitude of family lawyers and solicitors out there, including a family solicitor in London, but finding the one that is right for you and your needs does not need to be overly difficult. By adhering to some basic principles, you can identify a family lawyer that suits your needs. Consider the following criteria:
- Understanding: Family law is an area that requires not only expert understanding of all of the issues at hand, but also total commitment and passion. It is often an area that is fraught with emotional cases, and a good lawyer in this area needs to be able to separate themselves from the current of emotion whilst also being able to maintain their total commitment and passion.
- Specialisation: Whilst this applies to any legal area, make sure that you choose a legal firm that specialises in family law. It is a wide area and there are many legal firms that specialise in it. Other legal practitioners will have a basic understanding of this area of law, but someone who specialises in family law will also be aware of changes to legislation and any changes in the way courts approach certain cases.
- Avoid egos: Law is a complex beast and there is really no room for lawyers who put their egos before their clients. If your lawyer talks about winning the case in a way that makes you feel uncomfortable, it may be that they are prioritising their legal record above your needs for an optimal outcome. Likewise, lawyers who claim to be fierce and aggressive litigators but also great communicators are likely blowing their own trumpets a little too hard. In most cases, a lawyer cannot be both at the same time. If you feel uncomfortable at all with the communication style of your lawyer and believe that they do not have your best interests at heart, don’t be afraid to find a new lawyer.
- Communication: Always look for a lawyer that has a good rapport with you. You’ll be working intensely and closely with them, and it is wise to choose a lawyer who can relate to you and your case. In family law, the best practitioners are those who display compassion.
By hiring a family lawyer that is experienced, passionate and committed, you stand the best chance of gaining an optimal outcome for your case.
