Spouses, parents, and children are sources of emotional fulfillment for many people, but these relationships are also governed by a complex network of legal rights and responsibilities. Whether you’re going through a divorce, adopting a child, or seeking custody, the outcome of your case depends on the family laws in your state. Below is an overview of this important branch of the legal system and a few situations that may call for a family law attorney.

What Is Family Law?

Family law is a broad term that covers the legal aspects of marriage, parenthood, divorce, and other issues that often arise between family members. These statutes protect the rights of individuals and provide tools to ensure others meet their legal responsibilities.

Marriage & Divorce

Marriage is a legal union that gives each spouse certain rights. For instance, both spouses may have a right to a certain share of the marital assets in a divorce, regardless of who earned most of the income. Most states also allow family law attorneys to seek alimony payments on behalf of a lower-earning spouse, giving them the resources to start a new life.

Child Support & Custody

Each state has statutes protecting the rights of children whose parents are going through a divorce. In Hawaii, judges make child custody decisions based solely on the best interests of the child. Family law in each state also includes child support formulas that ensure every child receives their fair share of each parent’s financial resources.

Other Aspects of Family Law

Family law is a wide-ranging legal discipline, which can interact with other practice areas. For instance, marriage, divorce, and parenthood can affect probate court decisions and a person’s tax obligations. If you’re involved in a family law dispute, it’s best to have a family law attorney guide you through the process.

With over 20,000 cases behind them and a reputation for excellence throughout Honolulu, Coates Frey Tanimoto & Gibson, AAL, LLLC, is here to assist with family law disputes in Hawaii. Their attorneys have earned awards from some of the state’s leading publications and have been repeatedly selected as Super Lawyers. Visit their website for an overview of their legal services, or call (808) 524-4854 to schedule a free consultation with a leading family law attorney today.