Family Law Basics: Protecting What Matters Most

Almy & Thomas
Jun 10
4 min read

Protecting your family is always at the forefront of your mind. But if things go wrong, understanding the basics of family law can help you navigate disputes smoothly.

What does family law involve? Understanding the basics

Family law covers a broad spectrum of matters arising from familial relationships, such as marriage, divorce, adoption, child custody, and domestic violence.

This legal framework protects rights, settles disputes, and ensures fair outcomes for all parties. Our family law services can play a vital role in your life's transitions, from marriage and divorce to financial arrangements and mediation.

What are the key principles of family law?

What do family law services cover?

Family law is a broad umbrella term that covers a range of potentially complex issues. Each area has its own set of rules and regulations, and our specialist solicitors can help you navigate the best outcome for you and your family.

Marriage and civil partnerships

The formation of legal relationships is a fundamental aspect of family law. Our solicitors can help you start and end a relationship fairly and equitably. Marriage and civil partnership are legally binding contracts, and we can help you understand your rights and responsibilities, from pre-nuptial agreements to divorce settlements.

Divorce

Divorce law is a branch of family law that helps a couple legally separate their lives. Our team can guide you smoothly through the process of filing, serving, or responding to a divorce petition.

We specialise in no-fault divorce, which minimises confrontations between partners and centres on the best interests of the child or children. We’ll help you achieve the best outcomes, from the initial application through to the final decree, including fair division of assets and custody agreements.

Divorce can be emotionally and financially exhausting. That’s why our affordable legal services are available to support you at every step, from arranging equitable divorce settlements to a child arrangement order.

Cohabitation disputes

Cohabitation disputes can arise at the end of a relationship or when friends and family who are cohabiting want to move on with their lives.

We can help you agree on a fair financial split after selling your home or draw up a tenancy agreement that protects all parties entering into a cohabitation agreement.

Custody and child arrangement orders

Splitting up can be hardest on your children. Our experienced and understanding team can guide you through the process of agreeing on custody and visitation rights, as well as establishing a child arrangement order.

Everything will be done in the best interests of your child, while using the concept of “parental responsibility” to determine who has decision-making authority for your child’s welfare.

Family mediation

Family mediation is there to support you when your relationship has broken down and you need to sort out financial and child custody issues.

Mediation can be a less stressful way to make critical decisions about your future and can be easier on your children. Our highly experienced solicitors will act on your behalf to ensure that any agreements are in your best interests or those of your child.

If you want to avoid a drawn-out court battle, mediation lets you get on with your life as quickly as possible.

Domestic violence protection orders

Your family lawyer can keep you safe if you’re the victim of domestic violence and abuse. A Domestic Violence Protection Notice lasts for between 48 hours and 28 days and protects you against an abusive partner.

What are the benefits of a family solicitor?

You may not realise the benefits of having a family solicitor until you find yourself embroiled in a divorce or custody battle. Here’s why you should seek advice from a family solicitor:

● Advice and support: Seeking advice from specialist solicitors will protect your best interests, advise you of available options, and help you make informed decisions. Our experienced solicitors can guide you through difficult decisions with empathy and compassion.

● Representation and advocacy: Representing yourself in court can be daunting and may not lead to the best outcomes. Acquiring the help of a skilled solicitor will give you peace of mind that your rights are being protected.

● Communication: Talking to an ex-partner can be emotionally taxing and may hinder the outcome of your case. Your solicitor will communicate neutrally and professionally on your behalf to avoid any delays or miscommunications.

● Legal funding: You may be eligible for legal aid, and a solicitor is duty-bound to explore these options for you.

Family law: handling disputes with care and discretion

Family law encompasses a wide range of situations, including divorce settlements and securing a child arrangement order, just to name a few. These processes can often feel slow and overwhelmingly complex, but solicitors are trained to handle family disputes with care and discretion to achieve the fairest outcomes.

Disputes can be resolved through family law mediation or the court system. Mediation requires cooperation and compromise, but can be time and cost-effective. However, unlike a court decision, any agreements aren’t legally binding and rely on the goodwill of both parties.

Going to court is a significant step, but it is often necessary for complex cases. Handling family law matters in the court offers protection and legal enforcement, but the process can be costly and time-consuming.

Is it better to have a solicitor in family court?

If you decide to go to court, having a legal representative is not mandatory. However, we recommend you consult a family law solicitor to ensure your rights are represented and protected. Family lawyers can play a crucial role in advocating for your best interests.

Almy & Thomas: Helping you protect what matters most

Understanding family law can help you navigate through challenging times by smoothing complex disputes and achieving fair and equitable outcomes.

Family life is never simple, but at Almy & Thomas, we’re on your side. Our highly experienced team of family law solicitors in Torquay can guide you through divorce, custody, and family legal disputes, bringing clarity and achieving the best outcomes for you and your loved ones.