Family law issues aren't simply legal hurdles; they're important events that can reshape your life and the lives of those you care about. From divorce and custody issues to financial settlements and adoption, each comes with its own set of emotional and practical challenges. That's why, at Switalskis, our specialised team is not only experts in the law but also skilled in understanding the human side of these complex issues.

Our aim is to make the legal journey as smooth as possible for you. We break down complicated legal terms into language you can easily understand. We also keep you updated throughout, so you never feel left in the dark.

How long a family law case can take really depends on what you're dealing with. Some cases conclude quickly but others may take longer. Let us break down some general timeframes for you:

• Divorce: this could take a few months to a year, depending on how complicated things get. If both sides agree on all the details, it will be a quicker process. But if there are disputes about property, children or money, this will affect the time estimate.
• Child custody: again, if both parents can agree on the care arrangements for the children, the court is more likely to approve your plan quickly. If not, it could take several months to resolve.
• Financial settlements: sorting out who gets what can take time. If you can't agree on matters, you may have to consider mediation or you may have to wait for a court date, which can add months to your timeline.
• Adoption: this is a lengthy process, often taking more than a year. There are lots of checks and evaluations to make sure the child is going to a safe and loving home.
• Domestic violence cases: these can be more urgent. Courts are usually quick to issue protective orders, sometimes on the same day you apply.
• Prenuptial agreements: if you're sorting out financial matters before getting married, it's generally a quick process, taking maybe a few weeks to a couple of months. But please make sure you leave enough time before the big day to get it all sorted.

Start as early as you can and keep in touch with your solicitor regularly. We’ll give you a more accurate idea of timings based on your specific situation. And remember, at Switalskis, we aim to make this process as smooth and speedy as we can.

The role of a court in family law is to make impartial decisions when the parties are unable to agree on issues like divorce, child custody, financial settlements, and more. Here's a simple breakdown:

• Final say: the court is often the final authority when parties can't come to an agreement through negotiation, mediation or other means.
• Legal framework: the court applies the law to make sure everyone is treated fairly. This can include dividing assets or determining arrangements for children.
• Dispute resolution: courts resolve disagreements. If you and the other party are stuck, the court will step in and make a decision based on the evidence presented.
• Protection: in situations involving domestic violence or child abuse, the court can issue protective orders to keep you or your children safe.
• Enforcement: once a decision is made, the court may make sure that the arrangement is adhered to, with possible legal consequences if it is not.
• Urgent cases: in urgent or extreme situations, such as your safety or the safety of a child being at risk, the court can make 'emergency' decisions to provide immediate protection.
• Review and modification: life changes and court orders might need to change too. Courts can review and modify arrangements like child support or custody based on new circumstances.

So, while many family issues can be resolved without going to court, the court serves as a critical safety net to maintain fair treatment, resolve disputes and provide protection when needed. At Switalskis, our solicitors will guide you through the court process if it becomes necessary, making sure you know what to expect every step of the way.