5 Reasons to Love Family Law
1. We love family law because it constantly challenges us.
Family law is some of the most important and complicated work in which lawyers in the United States become engaged. A family law dispute has multiple moving parts – and sub-parts – that must all be resolved in one comprehensive, integrative judgment, where all the moving parts must be fairly apportioned and designed to work flawlessly together ad infinitum. We’re talking property, cash, retirement, kids, alimony, child support, ongoing medical expenses, college expenses…
2. We love family law because it is client-centered.
I share office space with a Comp lawyer, a Medical Malpractice lawyer, and a Criminal Defense lawyer. I am the only one who regularly sees clients in my office – several times per week, day, or even hour! Our clients need hand-holding, no matter how “sophisticated” they may be, to share their most intimate fears and concerns with us. We are their shield, their armor, their advocate. When we must go to court, real issues affecting the most intimate parts of our clients’ lives are on full display. The stakes are high and we act accordingly.
3. We love family law because our work will often have a significant, and positive, impact on our clients.
Even with bad facts, a family law lawyer can often craft a reasonable resolution that provides a client a clear path out of their dilemma. A couple of the most common examples are cases that include substance abuse and/or mental health issues.
4. We love family law because we know that we are dealing with families who will often remain families forever, regardless of the legal status of their relationship.
As such, our perspective is always focused on the future of the family. We craft legal documents that anticipate and ward off potential future pitfalls that could cause hostility, infighting, and future litigation. We do this because we care about our clients and we have a strong desire to end their suffering.
5. Finally, we love family law because – let’s face it – we get hugs from our clients.
And what lawyer from any other practice area can say that?!
Related Content
Reassuring an Emotional Client: “I Do This Every Day”
Responding intentionally and appropriately to an emotional client takes practice and patience. It is work – but it is also a critical skill for family lawyers to cultivate.
End-of-Day Rituals: a Crucial Practice for Family Lawyers
An experienced lawyer shares his shutdown process, which provides a transition between work and home. These end-of-day rituals can lead to less anxiety and a sense of closure for stressed-out lawyers.
