If you are wondering whether you need a family lawyer, you will probably benefit from speaking with a family lawyer. There is a decent chance that you are involved in some kind of family legal issue with your spouse, other family members, or one involving your children. Perhaps you recently got through the holiday season only to realize that it is time you divorced your spouse.
Perhaps you recently adopted a child or gave birth, and you need to speak to an attorney about the adoption or guardianship process. Whatever family issue you are facing, it is important to speak with a family lawyer. Your lawyer will likely be able to clear up your issue for you and advise you on your best options. We have listed some of the clear signs that you need to speak to a family lawyer below.
You are Headed Toward a Divorce
January is known as the divorce month for a reason. Most family law attorneys notice an increase in new clients who are seeking a divorce after the holidays. Many of us hope to provide ourselves and our children with one more holiday as a family. After the holidays are over, it can become crystal clear that the marriage is over and it is time to seek a divorce.
Whether you have already decided that you are getting divorced or you are still tentative about the divorce process, speaking to a family lawyer can help tremendously. Sometimes our clients come to us after seeking an amicable divorce with their spouse. They may assume that they can do the divorce independently, and they do not need a lawyer.
However, even if you and your spouse are on good terms and plan to get an amicable divorce, you will still benefit from hiring a lawyer. Your lawyer will be able to advise you as to the best way forward. Your lawyer will also be able to review your divorce settlement and advise you of any red flags.
You are Getting Married and Need a Prenuptial Agreement
Prenuptial Agreements are no longer reserved for the rich and famous. Many people from a variety of backgrounds have been seeking prenuptial agreements to protect their interests. If you are going to be married soon and you would like to protect your financial investments and assets should you divorce, getting a prenuptial agreement is worthwhile. If you have a family business and your family is concerned that your spouse will take a share of the business should you divorce, a prenuptial agreement could be right for you.
Prenuptial agreements make the divorce process run much more smoothly because you have already negotiated and agreed to how you will divide your property should you divorce. Are you already married? It is not too late to consider how you divide your property. You can also get a postnuptial agreement if you have already gotten married to your spouse. Post-nuptial agreements are similar to prenuptial agreements, but they are signed after the marriage occurs.
You are Adopting a Child
Adopting a child can be an exciting and overwhelming time in a parent’s life. The adoption process is complicated and fraught with challenges. Depending on the circumstances of your adoption, you may be facing legal hurdles. It is worth hiring your own attorney to represent your interests during the adoption process.
Your attorney will ensure that you take steps according to Washington state law and federal law throughout the process. Your lawyer will also be able to protect your interest when it comes to using an adoption agency. By hiring a lawyer to represent you, you will rest assured that your adoption is entirely legally valid and finalized so you can enjoy spending time with your child.
Everyone Else is Lawyering Up
If you are involved in a dispute with your spouse, ex-spouse, or extended family members, and people start hiring lawyers, you should speak to a family lawyer as soon as possible. Family disputes range from child custody agreements to property settlements and issues involving family businesses. When other people began to hire their attorneys, it is a sign that they are serious about filing a lawsuit or taking the issue to family court. When you speak to a lawyer, you will better understand your situation and the legal process involved.
If you are seeking to avoid conflict, hiring a lawyer can help you tremendously. Family law attorneys are skilled and assisting families to resolve conflicts without going to court. Your lawyer can act as a mediator between you and your other family members while protecting your interest. If it does become necessary to bring the issue to court, your lawyer will be able to represent your interests in front of a judge.
You are Experiencing Conflict Over Child Custody
Child custody conflicts are some of the most draining and troubling aspects of a divorce. Child custody battles are not limited to divorce, however. In some cases, unmarried parents who separate become involved in child custody disputes. Or, the state may have taken away your child through child welfare services, and you would like to get your child back. A family lawyer will be able to help you understand the procedure for seeking full custody of your child or modifying your current child custody agreement. Knowing that your lawyer is fighting in your corner for your rights can be a huge relief for parents.
Contact a Seattle Family Law Attorney
Being involved in a divorce, child custody issue, or adoption can be complicated and stressful. At Akiona Law, PLLC, We understand how difficult family law situations can be. Our empathetic lawyers will listen to your situation and provide you with legal advice. We will fight to protect your rights while guiding you through the legal process. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation to get started on developing a strategy for your case.