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Family lawyers handle cases involving families in one way or another, such as marriage, adoption, and domestic partnership issues. More on Family Law >
Family law is pretty much what it sounds like—law that relates to families in one way or another. Marriage, adoption, and domestic partnership are all family law issues. A family law attorney might prepare a prenuptial agreement, represent you in an adoption proceeding, or provide advice about whether domestic partnership or civil union registration is a good idea for you. Family law cases usually go to a special court, often called Family or Domestic Relations Court, where they're heard by judges who work solely on family cases.
Education law usually involves children. (That's why we pair it with family law in this directory.) If you are advocating for your child's special education services, or you need help with any type of problem with your child's school, you're looking for an education lawyer. For example, you may have set up an individualized education program meeting about your child, but feel lost as to how to prepare for the meeting. An education lawyer can help you do that, and can also research the strength of your case and try to resolve disputes you are having with the school district. The elderly face some unique legal and financial issues, including those related to medical benefits, housing, and long-term care planning. An attorney can help you plan for your own future or for the care of your aging parents. And if you suspect that an elderly relative isn't being cared for properly in a residential treatment facility, you could consult an elder abuse lawyer.
