Family Law

GEM Advocates has extensive experience in dealing with family and matrimonial matters. Additional services included:

• Assistance in reaching amicable settlements through negotiation and support
• Mediation in family law disputes
• Divorces
• Enforcement of orders relating to family law matters
• Children’s rights
• Adoption
• Guardianship
• Succession: Obtaining Probate and Letters of Administration
• Resealing of Probate

DIVORCE AND MATRIMONAL SETTLEMENTS

We are a specialist divorce, mediation, matrimonial and family law practice. We appreciate the importance of the work we do as of course, it can be life changing and we work hard in the interests of our clients. We recognise that the adversarial nature of divorce is stressful, taking its toll on both sides, and appreciate the importance and urgency of the work we do. We are on your side will help you to achieve an agreeable, dignified outcome as quickly as possible and work tirelessly to protect your interests throughout this difficult time.

CHILDREN

Your children mean so much to you. You cannot imagine being apart from them for any length of time. But, when you find yourself headed toward divorce, you know that your entire situation is going to change. You will not always be under the same roof as your children. You will have to make difficult choices about child custody and parenting time, and it is essential that you have an experienced legal team to help you throughout your case. The attorneys at GEM Advocates have worked with many people who have found themselves in similar situations. We have a long history of creating successful strategies that help clients find solutions in custody and visitation cases.

When judicial officers make decisions on custody matters, they issue a decision that they feel is in the child's best interests. Our goal is to resolve your case before the courts become involved. We are committed to building a comprehensive strategy that puts a strong plan in place for you and your co-parent.

There are many issues that we will address during your custody dispute, including:

• Will each parent be allowed to participate in decision-making regarding the child's health care, education, extracurricular activities and other important matters
• Where the child will spend his or her time, and the amount of time each parent will get with the child as part of the parenting time plan
• What will happen in the event that the parents have a disagreement over certain issues
• What is likely to happen if the case ends up going to court
• Will a parent be allowed to move to a different city or state with the child

We do not feel it is in your best interests to talk to us and have us say exactly what you want to hear. It is our job to fix your problem to the best of our ability, while limiting the costs and stress that you may experience throughout the process.

We do whatever is necessary to protect the best interests of your child throughout your custody case.

GUARDIANSHIP PROCEEDINGS

There are some situations where parents may be struggling in their ability to care for their child or children. The decisions they have made have placed everyone at risk, and there may be concern for the future well-being of the child. In these matters, outside individuals may ask the court to be appointed as a guardian of the child, in order to improve the child's chances of making it through these challenges in a positive place.

These proceedings, called guardianships, can be extremely emotional family law cases. The lawyers at GEM Advocates have handled a number of guardianships for minor children. Having seen the impact of these proceedings from both sides, we understand the steps to take to help you achieve the end result that you are requesting.

PRACTICAL REPRESENTATION THROUGHOUT YOUR CASE

Whether you are looking to be appointed as a guardian to your stepchildren, looking to protect a child that is being abused or neglected, or wishing to contest a guardianship, our lawyers can explain the potential options that are available to you. During our initial consultation, we ask questions about the situation so that we can give you honest advice. We ask what you hope to accomplish, and provide you with a realistic assessment of your chances of success. We do not simply tell our clients what they want to hear. These are important issues, and it is necessary for us to be straightforward with you so you know exactly what to expect.

There are a host of different issues that accompany guardianship of minors cases in Uganda, and it is necessary for you to have a complete picture before you decide the appropriate action to take. Do not make any decisions in your case before talking with our attorneys.

HELPING YOU WITH ALL ISSUES CONNECTED TO PROTECTION ORDERS

Domestic violence is taken very seriously in Uganda and the proceedings are similar to criminal proceedings. Our experience in criminal cases has produced very good results for our clients. When a spouse, child or romantic partner seeks protection from someone who is physically or emotionally abusing them, the courts take very quick action toward establishing boundaries to help the abused individual remain safe. In many family law cases, there are often signs that may indicate abuse is present. One or both of the parties may make allegations of violence, which can change the entire proceedings. Whether you are alleging that some type of abuse has taken place or need help defending against these accusations, we can help.

The lawyers at GEM Advocates have provided comprehensive representation in cases where domestic violence is either present or alleged. Our attorneys understand the precise issues that need to be analyzed, and help you understand the exact impact that this will have upon your case.

Our goal when we meet with you is to be as honest as possible. We examine your case from all sides and tell you what we can do to help you stay safe or protect your rights. Once we have decided together on the best approach to take for you, we immediately get started on obtaining your protection order or building your defense.