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Services > Family, Home & Personal Law Family issues
Separation and divorceDeciding that a relationship has irretrievably broken down and that the only recourse is separation or divorce is a hugely unsettling and upsetting process. We are there to make the process as pain-free as they can, while ensuring the interests and well-being of clients and especially their children, are carefully considered. If the relationship has reached a point where separation or divorce is the only way forward we will provide guidance and support in preparing the petition for divorce and assisting with any settlement for financial and personal matters. If the situation arises we can also represent clients in court and deal with any litigation throughout the process. We also provide advice on the termination of registered Civil Partnerships. Financial mattersIt is not always necessary to proceed to Court to resolve matters and when appropriate, we will try to help clients reach agreement through discussion and mediation. We can provide access to an independent mediator where this solution may offer a viable alternative. We will guide clients through the appropriate procedures to enable a financial settlement to be achieved. If matters cannot be negotiated and court proceedings are issued we will assist the client at every stage including representation at Court. Unmarried couples disputesThe breakdown of any relationship is difficult and to some degree this can be even harder for unmarried couples, as there are often very complex financial problems to be resolved. We appreciate the difficulties that can arise from this situation and work with you to try and resolve matters as quickly as possible. We provide assistance in assessing how joint assets should be fairly divided but if negotiation and discussion does not result in a satisfactory conclusion, we can represent you during Court proceedings, including dealing with any subsequent Order of Sale for your property. In a situation where a property is only in one person’s name, we can advise either party as to whether the person not named may have a potential claim against the proceeds of sale of that property as a result of the cohabitation. Arrangements for childrenSeparation, divorce or the breakdown of a relationship for an unmarried couple all have the potential to cause considerable distress for any children involved. Wherever possible we help negotiate arrangements that not only meet the needs of the children but also provide both parents with the means to adjust to their new situation, without undue disturbance. If agreement cannot be reached we can help with preparations to assist the court with any orders that are made. These can cover residence orders, contact orders and prohibited steps orders (which encompass restrictions on a child being removed from their country of residence). Parental ResponsibilityWe can provide advice to clients as to whether they have parental responsibility for a child and the effect of the same. Where appropriate, we can assist clients wishing to enter in to a Parental Responsibility Agreement or, if matters cannot be resolved, we provide representation in Court proceedings on an application for the same. Domestic violenceCases involving domestic violence can be highly emotive and require particularly sensitive handling as clients may have endured many years of abuse. We provide advice on such matters and, if required, court proceedings for an injunction. Social ServicesIf there has been any Local Authority involvement with a family we can provide advice on the appropriate procedures and correspond with the Local Authority on the clients behalf if required. If an application is issued by a Local Authority for a care order we can provide representation in those proceedings. Change of Name DeedsIf a client wishes to change their name we can advise and prepare any necessary documents. |
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Providing legal advice on family matters requires tact and empathy. Our team take time and care in dealing with the issues you may face, discussing your circumstances thoroughly with you before explaining the options available, in the strictest confidence.