Why Do Some Family Law Cases Take Longer to Resolve?
Family law cases are personal and affect people in different ways. Many people who go through family problems experience stress, fear, and sadness. Some family law cases, such as divorce, can also cause financial hardship, which explains why they want them to end quickly so they can move on with life.
Unfortunately, some cases take longer than expected. Why does this happen? Here are some primary reasons why some family disputes take longer in court.
Procedural and Due Process Issues
Different states have different rules regarding family matters. Some require mediation, while others need court hearings or documents to be filed a certain way. So, anyone who wants to file a family law case must follow their state’s rules. If they don’t, their case may be delayed or even dismissed.
What if the aggrieved party does not understand the rules? Legal mistakes can slow things down. A judge may ask for more information, or the other party may raise objections. However, a competent divorce lawyer and legal advisor understands the system and can expedite the process.
Family law attorneys can file the appropriate papers and follow relevant procedures during the legal process. They can also guide their clients and explain the process to avoid mistakes that could delay the case determination.
Emotional Reactions or Conflicts
In many family law cases, one party is ready to cooperate to solve the issue and move forward. But the other party may not feel the same. What happens when someone is bitter, angry, or hurt?
Some people lash out and may insult or threaten the other party. In severe cases, one partner may become physically violent, leading to other charges, which often cause delays. The court may need to issue restraining orders and postpone hearings for safety reasons.
However, competent family lawyers can advise their clients on how to stay calm and avoid emotional outbursts. Attorneys protect their clients’ rights and try to move the case forward, even when things get tough.
Parental Alienation
One parent might lie to damage the relationship between the children and the other parent. Such actions hurt the child and the family and may complicate the case.
When courts notice parental alienation, they may pause the case for further investigation. Lawyers often advise their clients to avoid issues that could complicate the case. They can help parents to protect the child’s well-being and focus on the best outcome for everyone.
Contempt of Court
What happens when someone violates a court order? Contempt slows the case because the court must hold new hearings. The judge may also issue warnings or even punishments for contempt of court. This creates more stress and delays for everyone involved.
To avoid this problem, legal advisors remind their clients to follow all court rules. They explain what the law requires, which keeps the case on track and reduces the chances of new problems.
Delays in family law cases can lead to financial constraints, affect mental health, increase legal costs, and keep people stuck in conflict. However, individuals struggling with family issues can seek help from a reliable family law attorney.
The lawyer understands family law and will expedite the legal process without compromising the rights or interests of children. Lawyers also represent their clients in and out of court to pursue the best possible outcome.