While the term “family law” often brings divorce to mind, family courts actually handle a range of legal matters, including adoption, child support, and child custody disputes.
Making sense of the law on your own can feel impossible, which is why you should reach out to a Syracuse family lawyer for help. Our dedicated attorneys are committed to providing the assistance you need to protect your rights. Call now to learn more.
Divorce is one of the most common reasons to retain a family attorney in Syracuse. Many issues and disputes can be resolved amicably with the other spouse, and an attorney could assist you in addressing any lingering conflicts. Divorces tend to involve all kinds of questions, concerns, and legal procedures that everyday people cannot anticipate, which is why they are best handled by professional legal counsel. The following are some of the most common issues that arise.
A central aspect of many divorce cases is the division of marital assets. In New York, this is referred to as equitable distribution of the marital estate. Crucially, equitable division does not mean equal division. In many cases, one spouse may receive more than half if the judge believes this to be the fairest resolution.
It is also important to remember that the court will only divide marital assets, not separate assets. Assets acquired during the marriage are presumed to be marital but the presumption can be overcome. Separate assets are owned by one spouse rather than the couple. This usually involves things brought into the marriage, or exempt property like family inheritance.
Divorce cases also frequently involve spousal support. Commonly referred to as alimony, spousal support is the payment of money from one party to their former spouse. This type of support can be a temporary effort to help an ex-spouse become self-sufficient but it can also provide support for longer periods of time, depending on the circumstances.
The paternity of a minor child is often a central issue in various family law cases. Before a father can exercise rights over a child, their paternity must be formalized. The same is true if a mother seeks child support from the father.
There are different ways to resolve paternity issues. If both sides agree on the identity of the father, it is possible to establish paternity through the use of an affidavit. When disputes arise, the courts will typically order a DNA test. An experienced Syracuse attorney could further explain the procedures that are standard to these cases and how family law pertains to them.
Child support and child custody issues can arise together, and between parents who are married, unmarried, or divorcing.
Whatever the situation, an attorney in Syracuse could assist with resolving family disputes. They understand that, in custody cases, the child’s best interest trumps all other considerations, and they know how to determine the implications of this fact for a given case.
Family relationships can be complicated. If there have been developments between you and your spouse, your child, or another family member that has legal implications, they should be handled by diligent attorneys. The law that governs these relationships is complex and challenging. You deserve capable and reliable guidance when your situation changes or if you wish for your situation to change.
Do not risk your relationships, parental rights, and property by acting as your own attorney. Reach out to a Syracuse family lawyer right away to learn how we may help.
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