Deciding to separate or divorce is a difficult and personal choice. If you have children, then one of the first considerations is to help your children adjust from being a family under one roof to a family in two separate homes. For separated parents, it is necessary to communicate about the children. If you’re feeling […]
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The breakdown of a marriage or a relationship can be a challenging time in someone’s life. There are often a mixture of emotions; denial, anger, sadness, and relief, which can change over time. You may have relied heavily on your spouse or partner for support and guidance. In a relationship, it is common for each […]
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What does a family mediator do? The mediator’s role is help a separated couple reach a mutual decision. The mediator facilitates discussion, explores solutions and helps both parties find a workable settlement. There are two types of mediators. Consider whether you see a lawyer-mediator (i.e. legally trained) or a non-lawyer mediator (i.e. a ...
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In my experience as a family solicitor and mediator, I am often asked to provide guidance to a parent (or both parents in the mediation process) about ways in which they can talk to their children about separation. Remember, there are no hard and fast rules. When parents separate, especially in circumstances when the separation was not a mutual dec...
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If you are considering a separation or divorce, then I recommend you obtain legal advice as early as possible. I am often asked by a new client: “How do I prepare for our meeting?” Below are some tips on how you can make the most of the first meeting with your family solicitor: Think about the […]
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Handover of the children can often be a time when both parents come into contact with each other. Even if the separation was amicable, it can still be a daunting prospect for a parent to see their former partner. In circumstances where there is animosity between the parents, handover can be used as an opportunity […]
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Below are a list of some legal terms relating to financial matters explained: Financial Remedy/Ancillary Relief – financial and property issues Statutory MIAM – a document signed by a mediator prior to making a financial application to court. Counsel – a barrister – a person who represents you in court. Periodical Payments &...
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Below are a list of legal terms relating to divorce explained: Divorce suit – the process which leads to the ending of the marriage. Civil Partnership – a registered partnership between partners of the same sex equivalent to marriage. Petition – a document that starts the divorce proceedings. Petitioner – the person who star...
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Social media is an integral part of our daily lives, and sites such as Facebook and Twitter encourage you to share your thoughts and activities with others. However, if you’re going through a separation or divorce, it’s wise to be aware of some of the pitfalls when using social media. It’s becoming increasingly common for [&hellip...
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Contrary to popular belief, getting divorced (i.e. obtaining decree absolute) does not automatically dismiss the financial claims that you have against each other. If you would like financial certainty then I recommend you deal with these financial claims at the same time as the divorce. Recently, the Supreme Court permitted an ex-wife (Kathleen Wy...
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