Introduction
Generally speaking a family are the foundation of Filipinos are known to be family-oriented. However, when family-related issues and conflicts arise, many tend to underestimate the value of seeking legal counsel. Some rely entirely on advice from non-professionals, while others resort to informal agreements, leading to emotional stress, loss of legal rights, and even long-term damage to familial relationships.
This is why hiring a family lawyer is necessary for every Filipino household. Experts like Yap, Kung, Ching & Associates Law understand the intricacies of family law, from the legalities concerning marriage and child support to property and inheritance disputes.
In this article, we will be discussing how a family lawyer in the Philippines can help you navigate sensitive legal matters concerning your family. We will also address some frequently asked questions regarding family law and how YKC Law can guide you through it.
The Role of Family Lawyers
Family lawyers play a crucial role in handling complex family issues within the country’s legal system. For couples about to tie the knot, these lawyers can help prepare a marriage prenuptial agreement in the Philippines. This will clearly define the couple’s ownership of assets and other financial responsibilities to avoid future conflicts.
Meanwhile, couples considering ending their union can get counsel from a marriage annulment lawyer in the Philippines, who can guide them on annulment grounds and procedures. They can help gather all the necessary documentation, represent clients in court, and walk them through the whole process.
Beyond providing legal counsel, a family lawyer in the Philippines can also provide a compassionate ear during emotionally charged situations. Note, however, that family lawyers are not therapists. They offer legal solutions based on facts and applicable laws, especially in cases that rely heavily on evidence and judicial rulings. Therefore, clients should have realistic expectations to build a successful client-lawyer relationship.
Common Family Law Services You Need To Know
Family lawyers have specializations that are only related to, as the name suggests, family-related legal issues. Below are the standard services you can procure from a family lawyer in the Philippines.
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Correction of Civil Entries
Family lawyers can help you file petitions to the Local Civil Registry Office to correct or amend any errors in your civil entries, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates and the like. If necessary, they can also represent you in court.
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Drafting of Pre-Nuptial Agreements
This service covers drafting a marriage prenuptial agreement in the Philippines, which helps couples identify individual assets that need protection. They also make sure that the agreement falls within the Philippine laws.
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Legal Separation and Annulment
Currently, there are only two legal approaches for married couples who want to separate: legal separation and annulment. Family lawyers can guide clients through these delicate processes and represent them in court.
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Preparation and Execution of Wills
To ensure that your assets are properly distributed before death, a family lawyer can help you draft your last will and testament. They can also handle the execution to make sure that your last will is followed the way you intend to.
When Is the Best Time To Contact a Family Lawyer?
Problems within the family occur almost every day, but when is the best time to contact a family lawyer in the Philippines? It is recommended to anticipate the need for legal counsel and seek help as early as you can or before the situation gets even bigger. Below are a few examples.
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If You Are Preparing for Prenup
Marriage is incredibly nerve-wracking, especially if there are doubts regarding the interests of both parties. It is important to contact a family lawyer when you have decided to draft marriage prenuptial agreement in the Philippines so they can include terms that suit your needs and safeguard your interests in case the marriage fails. This will give you peace of mind and a smoother wedding.
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If You Are Thinking of Separating
The dissolution of marriage in the Philippines is a long and complicated process. It is crucial to call a family lawyer even when you are still contemplating it so they can advise you early on things you need to do before proceeding with annulment or legal separation. This includes determining where the custody of your children will go, the division of your property, and your living arrangements.
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If a Drastic Change Will Impact Your Children
Children always face significant changes when their parents separate. It is essential to contact an expert before these changes happen so you can protect your children’s emotional well-being and legal rights. A family lawyer can help you secure or negotiate the custody of your children, ensure proper child support, and avoid future conflicts that may arise concerning them.
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If You Want To Ensure Your Assets Get to the Right Hands
Death is often an unexpected event. If you want to make sure that your assets and properties land to the right people, it is important to contact a family lawyer as early as you can. They can help you draft a last will and testament that reflects your wishes, as well as ensure that it gets properly executed when the time comes. This will help prevent future disputes between your beneficiaries and ensure they are legally protected.
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If You Feel Anxious About Your Marriage and Assets
Marriage is an entirely new chapter in your life, so it is natural to feel anxious about it. If you have doubts regarding your marriage and assets involved, you can seek counsel from a family lawyer first. They can help you draft a valid marriage prenuptial agreement in the Philippines to give you added assurance that your assets are protected in case your marriage falls through.
Entrust What Matters Most to Experts at Yap, Kung, Ching & Associates Law
Family matters are profoundly personal and legally complicated. With your rights, interests, and your family’s well-being at stake, it is important to make smart decisions—and you can do this by choosing the right legal partner to guide you through it. At Yap, Kung, Ching & Associates Law, we offer exemplary family law services that can cater to your legal counsel needs. Our top-tier family law attorneys have extensive experience handling sensitive family-related concerns and can guide you through the entire legal process.
We offer a wide range of family law services, including correction of civil entries, drafting pre-nuptial agreements, legal separation and annulment, and preparation and execution of wills. We help you prepare the necessary documents for these processes, file a petition to the appropriate offices, and represent you in court hearings. Visit our website to learn more about our offerings.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is Divorce Legal in the Philippines?
As of this writing, divorce is still not legal in the country. However, if you’re thinking of separating, you can opt for legal separation or annulment. In general terms, legal separation allows couples to live separately and divide their properties while the marriage is still valid. On the other hand, an annulment declares the marriage void from the beginning.
There are different grounds and legal consequences for granting legal separation and annulment, or dissolution of marriage in the Philippines, so make sure you do the proper research first or consult our family lawyers.
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I Want To Separate, Where Do I Start?
Separating from your spouse is a difficult and confusing decision. You can start by seeking advice from one of our exemplary family law attorneys. They will assess your situation and help you determine the proper legal remedy, whether you can file for legal separation or opt for an annulment. They can also assist you in preparing the key documents and navigating the hearings, ensuring your best interests are their top priority.
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Do I Need a Psychological Report Before I Can File a Petition for Annulment?
According to Article 36 of the Family Code of the Philippines, psychological incapacity is one of the grounds for granting an annulment. While it is generally not required to submit a psychological report, it could help you make a strong case and make it easier for your lawyer to allege psychological incapacity as the reason for annulment. When in doubt, it is preferred to seek counsel from a reputable marriage annulment lawyer in the Philippines.
Conclusion
If you are having worries regarding the legal aspects of your marriage, civil entries, or last will and testament, you will need a professional to give you expert advice. Working with a family lawyer in the Philippines will help you navigate the complex and daunting processes.
Yap, Kung, Ching & Associates Law takes pride in our roster of trusted attorneys. With our expertise in family law in the Philippines, you’re confident that your loved ones, their rights, and your assets are protected. Our services also ensure that you can avoid future disputes and conflicts within your family.
If you need a reliable family law attorney to guide you, don’t hesitate to contact our team today!
