March 16, 2020

The Essential First Step of Marriage is Family Law

Did you know that finding the right family law attorney and consulting them before you even begin your marriage process is essential? Keep reading to discover why.

The Statistics of Marriage

We would all like to believe that marriage is forever, and it will remain that way for every single couple that decides to tie the knot. If you've gotten recently engaged, this might be the first hope for you and your spouse, and it might be true. Unfortunately, it is a known fact that nearly half of marriages, about 48 percent, dissolve before a couple hits their 20-year anniversary. Due to this fact, the practice of family law has grown, and it is becoming more and more essential to face the realities of these statistics and prepare for the worst, though it hopefully does not come to fruition in your marriage. Finding the right family law attorney and consulting them before you even begin your marriage process can prove beneficial, and perhaps lifesaving.

What is family law?

Besides providing the aforementioned divorce lawyer services, family law attorney services can include a variety of legal aspects dealing with family law. These can include child support services, child custody services, military divorce, adoption, and alimony. In addition, before you decide to get married, consulting the services of a family law attorney can help with other financial aspects, such as jointly or solely owned property and how they will fit into your new marriage, signing a prenuptial agreement, or "prenup" in order to save your assets during divorce, and handling of wills all before tying your assets with someone else.

How to Look for a Family Law Attorney

Due to the laws, rules, and regulations of family law varying widely by state, it's important to consult them in the state you live, or where you decide to move. Sometimes, state laws of where you used to live and raised a family might even apply in cases dealing with child custody. In addition, during divorce, the circumstances, however negative, do not always affect the amount of alimony or child support a spouse will receive. Thus, it's important to consult the advice of a family law attorney rather than rely on myths, such as that adultery automatically means no alimony to the party who had the affair-this is not always true! Look also, into pending legal matters, such as common law marriage, financial assets of a home or business gained while not legally married, and shared debt among a plethora of other things. Remember, it's best to consult a family law attorney to iron out any details that could prove costly later on.

< Older Post Newer Post >

Leave Your Comment

search Article

Preparing for Mediation: What to Expect and How to Succeed

By Analytics Import • May 29, 2025

Mediation offers an alternative to traditional litigation, providing parties with a chance for resolution without the need for a courtroom battle. Understanding what to expect during mediation and preparing adequately is crucial for anyone seeking a successful outcome. This process involves a neutral third party who assists in negotiating a mutually agreeable solution between the parties involved. Whether you are working independently or through a divorce lawyer, getting ready for mediation requires a strategic approach and a clear understanding of your own goals and those of the opposing party. Understanding the Mediation Process with a Divorce Lawyer The mediation process often begins with each party providing an opening statement, outlining their position and goals. It is essential to prepare these statements ahead of time, focusing on facts and desired outcomes rather than emotions or confrontational language. A well-prepared statement can set the tone for a productive session and open the door for constructive dialogue. A divorce lawyer can assist in crafting a statement that is clear, persuasive, and aligned with your best interests. Remember that the goal of mediation is not to "win" but to reach a mutually satisfactory agreement that addresses the concerns of both parties. Exploring Possible Solutions During Mediation Throughout the mediation, the mediator plays a pivotal role in guiding discussions, identifying potential solutions, and helping manage emotions. According to the American Bar Association (ABA), a good mediator typically has a success rate of at least 75% in pretrial disputes. This impressive statistic underscores the importance of choosing a qualified mediator who can facilitate effective negotiations. Working with a divorce lawyer during this stage ensures your rights and priorities are properly represented, helping you navigate complex issues like parenting arrangements or property division with clarity. Why Flexibility Matters in Mediation Another key element to successful mediation is flexibility. Being open to alternative solutions and remaining adaptable to new ideas can lead to more efficient problem-solving. It's vital to enter mediation with a clear understanding of your bottom line, but also a willingness to make reasonable concessions. A skilled divorce lawyer can help you define those boundaries and adjust your approach as discussions unfold. Flexibility can often mean the difference between resolution and an impasse, paving a path toward a settlement that meets the needs of all parties involved. Preparing for Mediation with Expert Legal Guidance Preparing for mediation requires a combination of strategic planning, effective communication, and an open mind. By focusing on facts, seeking a skilled mediator, and remaining adaptable, you increase your chances of a favorable outcome. Mediation presents an opportunity to resolve disputes amicably, efficiently, and often with a high success rate, benefiting all parties by avoiding the stress and expense of litigation. Ready to approach mediation with confidence? Contact the Law Office of Arthur J. White III, P.C. for experienced legal guidance that helps you prepare, communicate effectively, and achieve the best possible resolution.