Key Facts...
Family law is an extremely diverse area of law.
It can cover legal topics such as marriage, divorce, financial separation, child law, domestic abuse and socio-legal family law issues, to name a few!
Family law deals with some very personal aspects of a person's life so it can be quite an emotional area of law to practice in.
Broadly, family law can be categorised into two areas: matrimonial law and child law.
Many lawyers in this area tend to specialise in either matrimonial law or child law but it is possible to do a mix!
Matrimonial Law
Family lawyers specialising in matrimonial law will advise clients on the following types of matters:
-
prenuptial agreements
-
cohabitation agreements or arrangements
-
divorce
-
financial implications of divorce and/or separation
Typical tasks of a matrimonial lawyer will include:
-
drafting, negotiating and advising on the above agreements;
-
preparing cases for divorce and settlement hearings;
-
obtaining evidence/support for a client's case including organising witnesses and reviewing the assets and finances held by the parties;
-
liaising with family law barristers; and
-
negotiating settlements
Child Law
Family lawyers specialising in child law will advise clients on the following types of matters:
-
child custody as a result of divorce or separation
-
child arrangement orders (deciding where a child lives and contact arrangements) which may involve local authorities
-
disputes between family members over the care of a child
-
parental responsibility
Typical tasks of a matrimonial lawyer will include:
-
advising clients on the implications of divorce on child custody and residence
-
keeping up to date with legislation
-
reading and reviewing hundreds of pages worth of documents in preparation for a hearing
-
representing clients (which can include local authorities, parents, children or guardians) in care proceedings
For the full job spec of a child care lawyer - click here!
Skills to be a Family Lawyer
Family law is a people focused area of law so a genuine interest and care about the lives of others is a must!
Demonstrating trust and empathy.
The ability to be detached from an emotional situation and have a non-judgemental attitude.
Excellent interviewing skills and the ability to deal with a variety of emotions.
Strong negotiation skills.
Practical approach to legal issues and strong understanding of family law.
Ability to handle a varied and large caseload.