Family law covers a large range of types of disputes and claims. This includes challenges to the validity of wills and trusts, the results of any probate, as well as pensions, retirement and other benefits, not to mention challenging the results of insurance claims.
Mediation and Negotiation
Where the issues concern only family members, the normal course of action is for all parties to be brought together to discuss the case, a mediator helping to guide all to a conclusion. Hopefully it will be possible to come to an agreement, but if not then it would be necessary to argue the case before the courts, and for that, you may need legal representation.
Our team of Family Law solicitors represent clients in all types of family matters including divorce, co-habitee disputes, residence and contact, child care, financial matters and ownership of property, ancillary relief, non-molestation orders and occupation orders.
To talk to one of the team, please call us on 01787 277375 or use the online form.
Some Of The Areas of Family Law We Cover
Legal Separation Agreements
Not all couples opt to divorce, instead deciding to live separately. Judicial separation (using formal Court proceedings) is one avenue, the other being a separation agreement. This needs to be prepared by a legal adviser, as it needs to set out the terms of their financial agreements and all living arrangements, access to children etc. Such agreements are not always fully legally binding, but they do provide as much security and certainty as is possible.
Divorce Proceedings
This is the route most often taken when marriages break down. Despite what you see on TV, the divorce process does not need to be hostile or aggressive. If both parties are willing to enter into civilised discussions on such matters of the division of property, child custody, guardianship, how any debts are to be dealt with. Our aim is to help parting couples, offering a supportive solution and a civilised end to an unhappy situation.
Children and Family Law
Whenever there is a marital or family breakdown, it is the children that are most always badly affected. This is where a family lawyer is often needed to ensure that the necessary advice on such subjects as, where any children live, who a child sees and when (Child Arrangement Orders - formerly residence and contact orders). In fact any matter that relate to a child’s upbringing.
Domestic Violence
Domestic violence is something that no one should be subject too. It does not matter whether the abuse is verbal, physical or simply falls into the category of harassment, it can blight lives. We offer support to any party, and where necessary will help you seek the protection of the Courts.
Cohabitation
Many couples decide to live together without the legal tie of marriage. However, this does not mean that the breakdown of these relationships will be straightforward. There are still liable to be legal issues, particularly over money and property rights. This fact is unknown to many cohabiting couples. We help in two ways, one by advising couples to set up any necessary wills and agreements whilst all parties are happy, and when things break down, by helping any party obtain what they believe they are due
Same-Sex - Gay Marriage and Civil Partnerships
We offer full support for same sex couples, and those in civil partnerships, emphasising equal opportunities laws. Whether you need help on pre-registration agreements, the effect of registering a civil partnership, any issues regarding children, or dissolving a partnership, we can offer understanding as well as sympathetic advice.
If you would like a consultation with one of our experienced family lawyers, please call us on 01787 277375 or use the online form.
Family law | The Guardian