Did you know that, marriages are more likely to last longer when the couple marries at an older age, has a higher level of education and earns more money? Sadly, this is not the case for many. The month of February has the most divorce filings. Not to mention the fact that the divorce rate for a first marriage in the United States is around 41% nowadays, and usually only lasts for about eight years. The average length of these proceedings is about a year. During that time, whether you need help with divorce for business owners or divorce for physicians, you’re going to want a good family law attorney on your side.

But, exactly what do family lawyers do? Sure, they work as child custody attorneys, and they help with divorce proceedings, but the term “family law” seems so broad? It makes you wonder what do family lawyers do, since it seems like they do so much.

In general, according to the University of Baltimore, family lawyers deal with family-related issues and domestic relations, naturally. If you’re still wondering what do family lawyers do, then to be more specific, they mainly deal with divorce, and its related issues such as the division of marital property, child custody, child support, and alimony. They also draft prenuptial and postnuptial agreements and litigate the related matters. Some family lawyers even represent victims or perpetrators of domestic violence. In addition to all this, family lawyers also deal with laws regarding adoption, guardianship, juvenile delinquency, child abuse, and neglect.

It seems like a lot, so, specifically speaking, what do family lawyers do? Most family lawyers have developed a specialty. There could be a dozen different lawyers at a family law firm, and each of them deals solely with a couple types of cases. Furthermore, according to the University of Baltimore, “family lawyers must have a wide range of legal skills as they draft and negotiate contracts, pleadings, and other legal documents; litigate contested matters; counsel clients on their legal rights and options; and attempt to resolve disputes. They
also must have exceptional interpersonal skills and be adept in managing emotionally volatile situations.”

Hopefully, if you were wondering what do family lawyers do, that put it succinctly! If you’re still wondering what do family lawyers do, feel free to ask in the comments! More on this.