At one time or another in our lives, all of us will need the assistance of a Family Law Attorney in Birmingham AL (or wherever you may live). With any luck, we’ll never need to hire a Criminal Attorney or consult a Personal Injury Lawyer, but Family Law assists people of all ages.
While the practice of Family Law includes matter ranging from adoption to problems involving elders, divorce is the most common reason people seek legal guidance. Getting married is often the high point of someone’s life, but getting divorced is the conclusion to a series of low points. It can also be very complicated, with emotions taking precedence over rationality. It the couple were able to calmly sit and discuss the issues, it’s unlikely that they would be getting divorced.
Property Division
In Alabama, state law mandates an equitable distribution of the property. This does not mean that property will be divided equally. All property held by the wife alone, whether acquired before or during the marriage, is her separate property and not subject to any liabilities of the husband. If the couple cannot agree, the court will distribute the property according to state law.
Child Custody and Support
Alabama law tries to ensure that minor children will have the benefit of parental care by virtue of continuing and frequent contact with both parents. Of course, that would not be true if it can be proven that one parent has not been acting in the child’s best interests. Each situation is unique. It is best if the parents reach a joint agreement that will be best for the child, but that does not always happen.
If the couple cannot reach agreement on child custody, a Family Law Attorney in Birmingham AL will need to clearly present their client’s position so that the court will render the best decision for the child. If the opposing parent is believed capable of child abuse or kidnapping, finding the most experienced attorney is critical. Child support will be awarded based on the theory that children should have the same standard of living as when the parents were together.
Forstman And Cutchen LLP offers professional guidance during the divorce process. They recognize the uniqueness of each situation. Please visit their website or call the office to schedule a free consultation to discuss your options.
