Settling legal disputes over family matters can be one of the most difficult things you’ll ever go through. These types of cases often take a real toll on your emotional and mental well-being, especially when you’re facing a divorce or child custody suit. That’s why it’s best to find an attorney who can share the burden by offering you expert representation in the courts.
Elizabeth Dyal Medlin is one of the most respected and experienced attorneys in Laurens, SC. Practicing primarily in the areas of family law, personal injury, and wills, the Medlin Law Firm is ready to help you settle legal disputes in the court system.
Choosing the right attorney can make all the difference in determining the outcome of any case. That’s why you should trust the Medlin Law Firm. Contact us today if you need legal assistance in any of the following areas:
Family Law: Family law in South Carolina includes everything from divorce petitions and child custody to adoption and distribution of marital property. You need an attorney to represent you in these types of cases. Only a lawyer can make a professional defense for you that relies on facts rather than emotions. Talk to us about your desired outcome and we’ll design a plan to help you get there. Here are some of the types of cases we can help you with.
- Divorce: No one plans to go through a divorce. You’ll likely feel many emotions as you go through the process, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Our attorney and her staff will offer you compassionate counsel during this difficult time. We’ll listen to your story and get a true understanding of your needs. Then we’ll take all the steps necessary to get the results that are best for you and your family.
- Separation: Many couples choose to pursue a legal separation as an alternative to filing for divorce. A legal separation is acknowledged by a court of law. If the separation is granted, you’re still considered married. But while you’ll retain the protections that come with that status, you can also negotiate regarding your assets. If you choose to separate, an attorney can help you decide how to divide property, share child custody, and pursue child support or alimony payments.
- Annulments: The end result of an annulment is the same as a divorce: Your marriage is dissolved. However, there are some important differences. If you get an annulment, it’s as if your marriage never happened. There are certain circumstances that qualify you for this legal action. A family law attorney can provide counsel on whether this is the best option for you.
- Reconciliation Agreements: If you’re having trouble in your marriage but don’t want to immediately seek an annulment or divorce, a reconciliation agreement may be the answer. This written agreement allows you and your spouse to lay out the ground rules if you eventually do decide to end the marriage. As an experienced family lawyer, Elizabeth Dyal Medlin can help you create this type of agreement using terms that are beneficial to both you and your family.
- Prenuptial Agreements: Prenuptial agreements are contracts that are signed prior to a marriage. This document allows you to specify what property is owned by each person and what each person’s rights will be regarding that property should the marriage end. Many people falsely assume that prenups are only for the wealthy. However, anyone with assets should consider this type of legal agreement. It makes your rights clear, can protect you from debts, and can help you avoid disputes if you divorce. We’ll gladly speak to you about your individual situation and whether a prenup makes sense for you.
- Division of Property: Property division laws vary from state to state. That’s why it’s important to work with a South Carolina family lawyer like Elizabeth Dyal Medlin. We’ll help you determine the equitable apportionment so that your property can be divided in a fair manner. Our goal is to help you present an accurate report of your marital property to the court so you can get what’s rightfully yours. We’ll also make sure all of your questions and concerns are addressed so that you feel comfortable with the proceedings.
- Child Custody: Fighting for custody of your child is one of the most important things you’ll ever do. It can also be one of the most complicated. Choosing the right child custody attorney can make all the difference. Our firm has a track record of helping parents do what’s best for their children. Talk to us about your situation and let us tell you how we can help.
- Child Support: Child support is an important way to make sure your child is taken care of, both today and in the future. If you want to pursue child support or your co-parent isn’t honoring an existing child support agreement, it’s best to contact a family lawyer. Medlin Law Firm will review all the facts and help you get the financial resources you need to provide for your family.
- Multi-State Disputes Involving Children: Multi-state child custody cases can be quite complex. The family court must still act in the child’s best interest even though long distances are involved. In order to make sure your voice is heard, you should work with a family attorney with experience in multi-state disputes. Our team will fight for a reasonable resolution that benefits your child.
- International Disputes Involving Children: Even more complicated are child custody cases that cross international borders. Not every lawyer has experience with international child custody cases. We do. We put the safety of your child first and foremost and will do all we can to make sure all negotiations are fruitful and positive.
- Changes to Prior Court Orders: Many family law matters will change and evolve over time. When this happens, an attorney can help you request changes to prior court orders regarding custody, child support, or other circumstances. Elizabeth Dyal Medlin will advise you on the best course of action for you and your family and will act as an advocate for you in court.
- Visitation: Visitation is one of the most important parts of any child custody agreement. As with other parts of your court orders, your visitation schedule can be changed based on the actions (either positive or negative) of the other parent. Our family law attorney will review the circumstances of your claim and do what’s in the best interests of your child and family.
- Alimony: Whether you’re paying or receiving alimony, you need to stay on top of your agreement. Circumstances in life change incomes and expenditures for us all. If you’ve gotten a new job, lost a job, or had other major life events happen, it could affect your alimony. Let our attorneys advise you on the best moves for you and your family.
- Adoption: Adopting a child is cause for celebration. But there are also many legal ramifications you must deal with. As soon as you decide to adopt, you should begin working with an adoption attorney. We’ll do all we can to make sure the process goes smoothly so you can have the family you’ve always wanted.
- DSS Investigations: The South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS) investigates allegations of child abuse and child neglect. Facing such an investigation is daunting, especially when you believe you’ve been falsely accused. Our family attorneys will listen to your side of the story and will make sure you’re heard in the family courts.
- Restraining Orders: Our family lawyers will assist you with filing for a restraining order or an order of protection. Restraining orders are issued by magistrate judges, while orders of protection are issued by family court judges. We’ll help you determine which course of action is right for your situation so you and your family can feel safe.
- Rights of Grandparents: Grandparents often have very close, loving relationships with their grandchildren. If something happens to one of the child’s parents, or if the parents divorce or separate, grandparents may be awarded visitation. If you want to see your grandchildren but aren’t able to do so, call our office to discuss your situation. Our attorney will make sure your rights are recognized.
- Termination of Parental Rights: Sadly, parents are sometimes not able to adequately care for their children. If a parent abuses, neglects, or abandons a child or has addiction or other circumstances that hinder their abilities, their parental rights may be terminated. If you are in a situation where you believe this action may be in the child’s best interests, talk with a family lawyer to learn about the process and the legal ramifications.
- Name Changes: Name changes are often requested after a divorce, an adoption, or the termination of parental rights. Working with a family law attorney is the best way to make sure you’ve completed all the steps and filed all the paperwork needed by the courts.
Personal Injury: If you’re suffering because of someone else’s carelessness, call a personal injury lawyer. The person at fault deserves to be held accountable. Our firm will fight for you and do all we can to make sure you get the compensation you deserve.
Wills and Powers of Attorney: Finding the right attorney to handle your will is important. We serve as a trusted counselor as you plan your legacy. We’ll walk you through the process of dividing your assets and making sure your family is both protected and cared for. We can also draft powers of attorney for you and your loved ones.