How to deal with a family law dispute without causing carnage
As someone with a family, it makes sense that you want to do everything you can to protect them. Sadly, while we do everything we can to help our family, not every familial solution can be solved amicably. If you want to deal with a family law issue, here are some things to focus on before you decide on what is – or isn’t – the right direction to go down.Try and talk it outFirst off, try and find a solution together. You can find that simply being honest and open with one another can be enough of a starting point. This can give you many ideas on what might be causing the problem(s) – you might even find that you are more of a cause of the problem than you first assumed.Always try and talk it out before you do anything else.Build your case properlyIf you feel there is no way to solve this other than hiring a family law attorney, you should approach this carefully. Take the time to clearly understand what is causing the problems between you both. Take into account every piece of evidence that you can record. The more details you have, the easier it is to go to an attorney and find a solution that works out for everyone involved.Hire a legal expertThe next step is to hire an attorney. Look for someone local so that you know they understand local family law. Hiring someone from out of your state/country is a foolish idea as the law can be so different that it can make their legal advice pointless. So, focus on hiring someone who is both physically localized to you and who comes with enough experience that you can trust their insight on the matter.Approach the family memberNow you need to make it clear that the matter is being taken to the courts. Once you feel like you have exhausted all non-legal avenues for a solution, you should take it further. Be sure they are made clear of your decision, though, as this can reduce bitterness. Give them ultimatums and clarify if/when you intend to take the case forward.Do not just spring it on them, and you can avoid disaster and arguments that your family might not recover from.
Wade Matthews