What is 'Family Law'?

For many people, the term "Family Law" brings to mind just one thing: divorce. In reality, however, family law is a broad and complex field, encompassing far more than the traditional divorce and custody issues. At Smith & Doran, our family law attorneys provide a comprehensive spectrum of services including the following:

  • Prenuptial and cohabitation agreements
  • Divorce (contested or uncontested) and separation
  • Property settlement agreements
  • Post-judgment enforcement and modification of alimony, support and child care arrangements
  • Child custody litigation and settlements
  • Adoption-related issues
  • Consultation and direct assistance in spousal abuse and family violence situations
  • Appeals of trial court matters
  • Alternative dispute resolution through arbitration and mediation
  • Tax and financial planning in divorce and separation
  • Will Preparation and alternative Estate Planning.

To schedule a confidential interview with one of our family law attorneys, simply call the offices of Smith & Doran, and we will be happy to arrange a consultation. That consultation will last for approximately one hour, to allow time for us to learn the details of your unique situation, and answer your questions.

What to Bring to your Consultation

Since all issues relating to support and to equitable distribution of property are impacted by the family's financial situation, the attorney meeting with you will want to discuss the value of assets and extent of liabilities incurred during the marriage. Therefore, it may be helpful if you bring along as many of the following as possible:

  • Copies of recent paystubs (yours and your spouse's)
  • Tax returns
  • An itemized list of budget items and expenses
  • A list of assets each party possessed prior to marriage
  • A list of assets acquired during the marriage
  • Any information you may have regarding liabilities.

Since the attorney-client relationship works best where there is a clear understanding regarding fees, your initial consultation will also include a discussion of financial arrangements for legal services and court costs.

Please call us at (973) 292-0016 to discuss your needs, or send us an e-mail at RSmith@Smith-Doran.com. Briefly describe your problem and provide us with your telephone number or e-mail address and the best time to contact you. We will assess your case and contact you promptly. All consultations are free of charge and confidential.