What Family Court CAN and CANNOT do
A family court can do many things which generally include dissolving or establishing family relationships (divorce & adoption) or resolving disputes between family members (custody & child support).
While the court has broad authority in these matters, it does have limits. If you know these limits and expect a realistic out come, you'll have a much less stressful experience and be more likely to get what you as for.
The Court CAN:
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award custody and set a parenting plan
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order support payments (including wage withholding)
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divide property and debts (in a divorce)
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enter a divorce
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grant a protection order or include restrictions on contact
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enforce orders through contempt powers
The Court CANNOT:
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grant requests that are not supported by the law
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make your partner change
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make your partner easier to get along with
With a reasonable understanding of the limits and guidelines of the court, you can start the process of organizing your case.
Need to talk to someone?
Is there a way to get divorced without spending a ton of money? How do we put together an agreement WE can live with? Is there a way to get through a divorce without taking years? Do I need a lawyer to get divorced?