The Different Areas of Family Law: A Comprehensive Guide

December 01, 2023

Family law encompasses everything from ending a marriage to prenuptial agreements, child custody, and protective orders. In general, family law cases involve issues concerning or between spouses, children, parents, and other relatives. Regardless of whatever type of family law issue you are facing, you will need solid legal representation.

At Bamieh & De Smeth, our California family law lawyers understand how sad, stressful, challenging, and even terrifying a family issue can be. It is our main goal to help you through whatever you’re facing. Reach out to our California family law lawyers today to learn more about your case in a free case consultation. In the meantime, here are the different areas of family law you should know.

Prenuptial Agreements

Having a solid prenuptial agreement before you get married is crucial to the success of your relationship’s financial aspect. Done right, it will detail the specific decisions about you and your partner’s assets should your marriage end in the future. You won’t need to suffer through all the financial and emotional costs of fighting over marital property and crucial life decisions if you divorce or separate from your spouse. 

Divorce and Legal Separation

Deciding to get a divorce or legal separation can be immensely difficult, but going through one can be even more difficult. Legally separating from or divorcing your spouse can significantly affect issues regarding children, alimony, marital property (especially if significant assets are involved), and other issues that separating or divorcing parties usually dispute when ending their marriage.

Child Custody and Parenting Time (Visitation)

Child custody disputes and cases involving domestic violence are the most heartbreaking and stressful areas of family law. Child custody battles can be complex and extremely contentious. While family courts can help determine which parent can better care for a child, a California family law lawyer can advocate for the best possible custody arrangement that aligns with your family’s best interest.

Child Support

Child support orders are based on various factors in California:

While the child support amount is usually determined by a judge, there’s always room for negotiation between the parents.

Alimony

Also known as spousal maintenance, alimony payments are paid by one spouse to the other for financial support. Judges consider several factors when deciding to award alimony. These factors typically include how long the marriage lasted, each spouse’s financial resources, how each spouse contributed to the marital property, both spouses’ health, and education or career advancement opportunities, among others. 

Adoption

The types of adoption in California include:

Adoptions can be complex and time-consuming, especially in cases where someone is contesting the adoption.

Get Legal Assistance From an Experienced California Family Law Lawyer Now

The California family law lawyers at Bamieh & De Smeth have extensive experience handling a broad range of family law matters throughout California, including Santa Barbara and Ventura. Whatever family law issue you’re dealing with, we can help. Dial 805-643-5555 or reach us online to schedule your free case evaluation with our California family law lawyers.