Our Services > Family, Home & Personal Law >
Family Issues
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.
Separation and divorce
Deciding that a relationship has irretrievably broken down and that the only recourse is separation or divorce is a hugely unsettling and upsetting process. Our specialists are there to make the process as pain-free as possible, while ensuring your interests and well-being ,and those of your children, are carefully considered.
It is not always necessary for a Court to r decide matters. 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.
If divorce is the only way forward we will provide guidance and support in preparing the petition. If the situation requires it we can also represent clients in court and deal with any Financial or children issues.
We also provide advice on dissolving registered Civil Partnerships.
Unmarried couples disputes
The breakdown of any relationship is difficult but it can be even harder for unmarried couples, as there are often very complex financial problems to be resolved. We understand the issues and complexities that can exist and will 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 for Sale of your property.
Arrangements for children
Separation, divorce or the breakdown of any relationship has 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 represent you on an application for a residence order, contact order and prohibited steps orders (which encompass restrictions on a child being removed from their country of residence).
Injunctions and Occupation Orders
Cases 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 injunctions and how to obtain an injunction as well as mediation, reconciliation or, where required, options for criminal prosecution.
Our service also provides advice on personal protection and harassment issues relating to neighbour or associated disputes.
Collaborative Law
Helen Shaw is a trained collaborative lawyer. The collaborative law process is a relatively new way of dealing with family disputes.
Each person has their own lawyer who is representing their interests, but negotiations take place face to face instead of by letters and telephone calls, which is the traditional method.
In the collaborative process the lawyers sign an agreement that disqualifies them from representing you if the process breaks down and you have to apply to court. Your lawyer is therefore totally committed to helping you resolve your issues by agreement.
