Laura Penn Shanley

Family law includes laws of marriage, civil unions, same-sex relationships, domestic partnerships, divorce, separation, property settlements, alimony, spousal abuse, adoption, child abuse, child support, child custody and kidnapping. If you need help with a family-related legal issue, a family law attorney can advise in family disputes as well as represent you in lawsuits.

General practice attorneys perform a wide range of legal services but usually do not focus on a single area of the law. You might consider a general practice lawyer as a “Jack of all Trades” who can give advice in many legal areas, represent you in common lawsuits and negotiations, and prepare everyday agreements and contracts.

The mediation process can help you resolve disputes without going to court. In a mediation proceeding, a neutral third party meets with you and the person you disagree with. The mediator acts as a facilitator, helping you negotiate until a solution is found or until you reach impasse.

Probate is the legal process used to administer a person's estate after their death, with or without a will. A probate attorney will assist in determining who are the legal heirs, what debts and expenses must be paid, and how to divide and dispose of the property in the estate.