When you think about the phrase "family lawyer in Toronto" your mind might automatically turn
to divorce. While it is one of the most obvious reasons you would approach an
attorney specializing in this field, it is not the only reason. You don't have
to be ending your marriage to consult one of these highly skilled
representatives.
Adoption
Unless you plan to adopt from the state's child welfare
services, chances are you will need to hire an attorney. There are several
steps one must take in an adoption process, and someone who is trained in this
area can help you navigate the system. It still takes time for the process to
be finalized. However, this individual will ensure all the paperwork is
completed and filed appropriately so that you can add to your family.
If you are a stepparent who wishes to adopt your stepchild,
the steps differ from those for bringing a child into your home. It is still in
your best interest to rely on the advice of an attorney in order to ensure you
are now the legal parent of that child.
Name Change
Family law also extends to name changes. While the
courthouse office that issues marriage licenses can easily guide you through
the process of changing your last name after marriage, there is not a lot of
information on how to change it any other time. There are many reasons you may
want to change your name legally. Remember, you can call yourself whatever you
want, but the government won't recognize it unless you go through the paperwork
to make it so.
Restraining Orders
Sometimes you may be in a situation where you need legal
protection from a former lover or family member. You can do this through a
protection or restraining order. It is easy to get a temporary order by going
to the courthouse. However, making it permanent is not as easy. The judge will
want to hear all sides of the case and then may only extend the protection from
six months to a year. Having an attorney who is trained in this area of the law
can help you get adequate legal protection from your abuser.
Pre-marital Agreements
Pre-marital agreements are not just for the rich in order to
protect their assets. On the contrary, these can be drawn up and entered into
by anyone who has stipulations on the marriage. More often than not, the main
goal is to keep one spouse from taking too much money from the other spouse in
the event of a divorce. However, other stipulations such as reasons for ending
the marriage and how the property is divided based on fault can be included.
Someone who is trained in family law will be able to ensure the entire document
is legally binding.
Custody Arrangements
Of course, the most common area of domestic law is custody
arrangements within divorce settlements. Divorce is hard on everyone, but it is
especially difficult on the kids who are used to having both parents under one
roof. An attorney can help you and your former spouse sort out what is best not
just for yourselves, but for any children involved. This includes who is going
to have primary custody, what visitation looks like, and how child support is
handled. They will also help negotiate who contributes to what aspects of the
child's health, dental, and vision insurance or care.
Family law isn't just about divorce. Instead, it covers a
wide array of areas that include adding children into your family and
protecting yourself and your loved ones.
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