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The traditional role of a divorce lawyer was that of an advocate representing a client in a legal proceeding that would end in the dissolution of a marriage. For years, fault had to be attributed to one party or the other in order for a court to issue an order. Grounds such as adultery, cruelty, desertion, or mental illness had to be established during a trial; even if the parties were in agreement that the relationship should end, attorneys practicing domestic relations had to undertake an adversarial position in order to obtain judicial approval. Needless to say, this often turned an amicable situation into a contentious one. With the wide acceptance of the concept of a "no-fault" basis to legally terminate a marriage, the role of the divorce lawyer has undergone a dynamic change. Rather than merely preparing a case for trial, the modern day domestic relations practitioner is also a negotiator for his/her clients in such matters as property distribution, child support, alimony, and other economic scenarios. Helping clients understand the mandates of the legal system in these matters and working to find reasonable solutions can often be a difficult task, particularly where the parties involved are emotionally at odds or determined to punish one another for the failed relationship. Perhaps no area of the practice of a divorce lawyer is more daunting or challenging than dealing with child custody and visitation. The importance of reaching an agreement where children are involved has also been complicated by recent developments in family law allowing extended family members to petition for visitation rights as well. It is here where an attorney's skill and experience comes to the fore in working with all parties, and their respective counsel, to make certain that the best interests of the child/children are protected and given the highest priority. Even after the final decrees have been granted, the duties of a divorce lawyer do not end. As a client's circumstances change (remarriage, relocation, change in employment status, etc.), those original orders may need to be modified or updated. As a result, a domestic relations matter can often go on for a period of years. It is important that practitioners of this area of the law remain vigilant as to changes in the applicable law and the impact that those changes could have on the individuals they represent. Being a divorce lawyer in the 21st century is certainly far different than it was in years past. As the laws have become more complex, the role of attorneys who are involved in domestic relations work is probably more important today than ever before. When looking for divorce lawyers, Orange County, NY residents consult Silver & Lesser, P.C. Learn more at http://hudsonvalleylawyers.com/divorce.
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