In an attempt to resolve family law disputes, many approach the courts. Nonetheless, courts are neither the simplest nor the sole avenue for dispute resolution. There are many stages involved prior to, and during a court process. This article attempts to briefly explain these various stages and the role of the parties involved in each stage…

Parens Patriae means ‘parent of the country’ in Latin, and refers to the common law doctrine by which the Sovereign has an obligation to protect the interests of those unable to protect themselves, such as children and mentally incapacitated adults. For example, the State has a duty to protect children or the mentally ill who are abused or neglected…