Family law is a diverse practice area, named as such due to its intricate involvement with the family and its many forms. As such, family law covers anything from prenuptial agreements to child visitation rights. Issues family lawyers can expect to encounter are complex, not only because of the legal aspects of each case, but because they become involved in extremely personal aspects of people’s lives. They require such intimate details to properly represent their clients, be it in a contentious divorce, or a prenuptial agreement. Family lawyers will be aware that emotional intelligence is almost as important as academic success when it comes to this area of the law.
Nonetheless, a career in family law isn’t just divorces and disputes involving children. Family law has developed just like all other aspects of the law and continues to be shaped through the modern times in which we live. Examples of the changing nature of the work undertaken family solicitors and barristers include rights surrounding frozen embryos, surrogacy, and the application of the law towards same-sex couples. All lawyers think their area of the law is special, and the same goes for family lawyers. However, what makes the work family lawyers do unique is their aforementioned involvement in the lives of those they represent.
Areas of Family Law Practice
- Child abduction,
- Child protection,
- Adoption,
- Advocacy,
- Paternity,
- Contact,
- Domestic abuse,
- Emancipation,
- Surrogacy
What Does a Family Lawyer Do?
No day is the same for any lawyer, but a family lawyer’s days can be extremely varied. Whilst what a typical day looks like for a family lawyer will depend on whether they’re a solicitor or barrister, the areas may be the same. Like all lawyers, family lawyers may choose to specialise further, again affecting what it is they do on a daily basis. However, some tasks will remain the same across the board. You can expect to be preparing documents for court, speaking with clients, and so on. The nature of the documents is what will differ most from other lawyers.
It’s unlikely you’ll encounter anyone but a family lawyer researching UK and European legislation surrounding divorce. Moreover, depending on the case, family lawyers will liaise with psychologists, healthcare professionals, social workers, and the police. They may also advise their client through complex claims and alternative dispute resolutions to court, as such they will require strong negotiating skills. Other skills required to be successful in family law include interpersonal and research skills. You will have to be able to work with people from all walks of life. Emotional intelligence is paramount, but it is also important you have to ability to remain professional when dealing with situations which may be emotionally taxing.
Family Law Firms
A list of well-regarded family law firms:
- Charles Russel Speechlys LLP
- Dawson Cornwell
- Farrer & Co
- Mischon de Reya LLP
- Payne Hicks Beach
- Withers LLP
- Forsters LLP
- Freemans Solicitors
- Goodman Ray
- Harbottle & Lewis LLP
- Penningtons Manches Cooper LLP
By Tara Williams – Ryan
