Almost everyone counts their family relationships as among the most important in their life. For many people, nothing is more important than family. Contested family law cases are among the most challenging legal matters that individuals could face. These legal disputes sometimes involve issues where dispositions impact the lives of families significantly.
When families have problems that require legal solutions, a Chattanooga family lawyer has the skills and compassion to provide effective counsel. Working with a seasoned attorney can ease the stress of difficult personal matters and help you reach a resolution that meets your goals.
Family law is a broad area of the law that encompasses many different court actions that relate to individuals, their families, and their finances. Our Chattanooga family lawyers often work on issues related to marriage and divorce.
Marital Agreements: When couples are considering marriage, developing a prenuptial agreement (prenup) is often a wise step. The partners must make a full disclosure of their assets and debts, which can help them set reasonable financial expectations for their marriage.
Separation Agreements: In some circumstances a couple, or one spouse, seeks to end a marriage but divorce is not an option for religious or financial reasons. Sometimes one or both spouses believe the marriage is reparable, but they need some time apart.
Divorce: In the state of Tennessee, a couple must have legal grounds to divorce. The state offers two no-fault grounds—irreconcilable differences and separation for at least two years with no minor children. If the couple agrees on all relevant issues—such as child custody and support, property division, and alimony—a court will allow a divorce to proceed on no-fault grounds.
Not all family law matters involve marriage and divorce. Issues related to children comprise an important part of a family attorney’s practice in Chattanooga.
For example, many families grow their families through adoption. Although the result is joyous, the process is complicated and often stressful. Stepparents and LGBTQ individuals might wish to adopt their partner’s child. Although less complicated than adopting an unknown child, these adoptions require attention to the legal details to ensure that both parents establish parental rights.
Family law cases may also involve domestic violence or allegations of child abuse. These cases are often highly emotional, time-intensive, and place a great deal of stress on all parties involved. For many people, legal disputes related to their children may be more vital than any other type of legal case. Whether individuals are seeking to establish or modify court orders about their children, they are likely to benefit from representation by skilled family lawyers in Chattanooga.
When you consult a legal professional about a family matter, you need more than just dry legal advice. You need an empathetic person who can handle your matter with compassion, dignity, and in appropriate moments, fierce advocacy.
A Chattanooga family lawyer understands the emotional magnitude of the issues you face and has the skills to help you resolve them. Reach out today to speak with a caring professional.
