Most often, a family law attorney is used to resolve child custody disputes or enforce child support mandates. If you are involved in a divorce, then this type of attorney can help you either settle out of court, or settle satisfactorily after a divorce filing is made.
Attorneys Can Act as Child Advocates
Not only are attorneys that handle family matters used for child support and custody issues, they can also be used as child advocates. An advocate works to safeguard the rights of minors in cases of divorce and child custody, as well as in instances of abuse and neglect.
Courts can appoint a family law attorney as a child advocate in instances of neglect, abuse, contested child custody proceedings, termination of parental rights, adoptions, visitation, and juvenile court proceedings.
In the case of criminal proceedings in the juvenile court, parents can retain their own attorneys, or the court will appoint an attorney to act as a child advocate. Attorneys that act as advocates have usually taken coursework in juvenile and family law issues, and are certified to take on the role.
To become certified, an attorney must be in practice for at least three years and spend 30% of that time working in the field of child welfare. Attorneys must also show that they have taken and completed 36+ hours of continuing education in child welfare law. In addition to this prerequisite, the lawyer must demonstrate written and legal proficiency in this subspecialty.
Some of the duties of a family law attorney who is a child advocate include performing investigations, participating in court negotiations and court proceedings, obtaining relevant records, receiving notice of all court paperwork, requesting hearings and presenting evidence in support of the client’s position. The attorney must also determine and present the wishes of the child to the court and oversee the collection of support payments, if required.
Working to Meet a Child’s Best Interests
A child advocate attorney also serves as special education advocate for children with special needs issues. The advocate, in this instance, ensures that all the best interests of the child are met. Any family disputes regarding child custody or support can also be resolved more easily when a child advocate lawyer intervenes.
Even if your disputes have not risen to the level where child advocacy is required, it is good to know that lawyers who handle family matters and disagreements are trained to accommodate and meet the needs of families who wish to settle their differences in a fair and equitable forum. Needless to say, if you are going through any family disagreements because of divorce or another matter, you cannot ignore the importance of retaining legal assistance.
