Family Law Information

Family law is the body of law that governs the legal relationships between family members, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and support.

Family law is a complex and ever-changing field of law. The legal landscape can vary significantly from state to state, so it is important to consult with an attorney in your jurisdiction if you have any specific legal questions.

Marriage

Marriage is a legal contract between two people that creates a legal obligation to each other.

The requirements for marriage vary from state to state, but typically include:

• Being at least 18 years of age (or obtaining parental consent if under 18)
• Not being already married
• Not being closely related to the other person
• Being of sound mind and capable of consenting to marriage

Marriage can be performed by a variety of officiants, including judges, ministers, and civil celebrants.

Marriage creates a number of legal rights and obligations, including:

• The right to share in each other’s property and income
• The obligation to support each other financially
• The right to inherit from each other
• The right to make decisions for each other in the event of incapacity

Divorce

Divorce is the legal dissolution of a marriage. The process of divorce can be complex and emotionally challenging.

The grounds for divorce vary from state to state, but typically include:

• Irreconcilable differences
• Adultery
• Cruelty
• Desertion

The divorce process typically involves:

• Filing a petition for divorce
• Serving the other spouse with the petition
• Negotiating a settlement agreement
• Attending a hearing before a judge
• Receiving a final decree of divorce

Divorce can have a significant impact on both parties, both financially and emotionally.

Child Custody

Child custody is the legal determination of who has the right to make decisions about a child’s care and upbringing.

There are two types of child custody: legal custody and physical custody.

• Legal custody gives the parent the right to make decisions about the child’s education, medical care, and religious upbringing.
• Physical custody gives the parent the right to have the child live with them.

Child custody is typically determined by the court based on the best interests of the child.

Factors that the court may consider when making a child custody determination include:

• The child’s age and maturity
• The child’s relationship with each parent
• The child’s physical and mental health
• The parent’s ability to care for the child
• The parent’s financial stability

Child custody orders can be modified if there is a substantial change in circumstances.

Child Support

Child support is a legal obligation of parents to financially support their children.

Child support is typically ordered by the court based on a variety of factors, including:

• The income of each parent
• The number of children
• The child’s age and needs
• The cost of living in the area where the child lives

Child support orders can be modified if there is a substantial change in circumstances.

Conclusion

Family law is a complex and ever-changing field of law.