The need and role of family law solicitors

Relationships sometimes breakdown and, when they do, you may be wondering what to do next. Here are 10 situations when a family law solicitor could be what you need.

1. Divorce is never easy, particularly from an emotional point of view, but once a decision has been taken to end the marriage, it doesn't have be a bumpy journey. Legal support will help you make sure everything you should be doing gets done.

2. You don't have to be married to live with someone, but if that relationship should come to an end, you do have rights and legal experts can help you find out what they are. This is particularly important if you have children from the relationship.

3. If there are children in a relationship, married or not, and it comes to an end, there are often issues regarding custody. If the children are not going to be living with you, a solicitor can help to arrange times to see them. If they are going to live with you, the solicitor can also help arrange a time for your ex-partner to see the children.

4. It's not just the parents that may benefit from legal support when children are concerned. Grandparents also have rights with regards to their children's children. So in the event that a grandparent has been told they can't see their grandchildren, a family law solicitor could help.

5. Even if children aren't involved, there may be other important issues for people coming out of a relationship to discuss - including property and possessions. If they need to be sold, then legal advice could help with the sale and the splitting of the payment.

6. Finances are another tricky issue, when a marriage ends. If your situation has changed drastically as a result of the the break-up, you may need a solicitor to help explain what you may be entitled to.

7. People entering into or breaking up from a civil partnership may also benefit from a family law solicitor. It's important to know your rights and they can help you prepare for the partnership or, in the event of a split, life afterwards.

8. While Pre-nuptials are more commonly associated with celebrity marriages, particularly in the United States, they still exist in the UK and when couples decide that assets of one or both partners should be protected, an agreement can be drawn up at the beginning. A solicitor will help ensure this is professionally and legally carried out, as well as explaining how it would work in the event of a break-down in the relationship.

9. You may need a family solicitor in the event that you decide to move in with a partner. There are cohabitation laws that you may need to know, while you may require support if moving into the home your partner is currently paying a mortgage on.

10. Domestic violence victims should turn to a family law solicitor to help them escape their situation as soon as possible. Whether you need help securing new accommodation, untraceable telephone lines or any other form of protection, they can help you remain safe and free of your partner.