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).   

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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.

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The Court CAN:

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  • award custody and set a parenting plan

  • order support payments (including wage withholding)

  • divide property and debts (in a divorce)

  • enter a divorce

  • grant a protection order or include restrictions on contact

  • enforce orders through contempt powers

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The Court CANNOT:

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  • grant requests that are not supported by the law

  • make your partner change

  • make your partner easier to get along with

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With a reasonable understanding of the limits and guidelines of the court, you can start the process of organizing  your case.

 

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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?

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