- Mediation
- Divorce and Separation
- Financial Provision on Divorce
- Children
- Cohabitation
- Pre-nuptial Agreements
Divorce and Separation
The breakdown of a relationship is upsetting and an emotional time, and all clients have their own individual needs. We will help you deal with many of those practical and legal issues in a sensitive and sympathetic way.
Our experienced family lawyers will provide you with expert advice focused on guiding you through this complex are of law and assist you with the issues and decisions you have to make throughout, particularly in relation to financial settlements. We are committed to providing a first class service and always keep in mind the best outcome for you, and any children in your family.
We offer 30 minutes free initial consultation on any family matter so if you require advice please contact Michele Jenno or Yvonne Boyle.
Financial Provision on Divorce
It is important to ensure that, following divorce and separation, consideration is given to how the parties are to manage financially and provide for themselves and any children of the family. We are committed to seeking to advise the most appropriate outcome for our clients having regard to their individual needs and unique circumstances.
Wherever possible, we seek to reach agreement by negotiation and hope to achieve an amicable settlement. However, if that is not possible, we are also robust advocates and will pursue an appropriate outcome within the court process, if necessary.
We offer 30 minutes free initial consultation on any family matter so if you require advice please contact Michele Jenno or Yvonne Boyle.
Children
When a marriage or relationship breaks down it is paramount to give consideration to any children of the family. Disputes may arise relating to which parent the children are to live or the level of contact they will have with the other parent. We are able to advise you on all issues that may arise relating to your children including disagreements over their education and removal from the jurisdiction.
We offer 30 minutes free initial consultation on any family matter so if you require advice please contact Michele Jenno or Yvonne Boyle.
Cohabitation
Many couples live together as cohabitees without formalising their relationship by getting married or entering into civil partnership. However, cohabitees currently have no legal rights under the present law and contrary to popular belief there is no such thing as “common law” husband or wife.
If you are a cohabitee it is wise to take advice on your current situation and any provision you and your partner wish to make for each other for the future, particularly in relation to property and in the event of death.
We can assist you in the preparation of a cohabitation agreement and advise on any other issues that may be appropriate so as to safeguard you and your partner both now and in the future.
Similarly, in the unfortunate event of your relationship breaking down we can advise and assist you in dealing with any financial issues and settlements which may be necessary, and of course matters relating to any children of your relationship.
If you would like further advice please contact Michele Jenno or Yvonne Boyle to set up a 30 minute free initial consultation.
Pre-nuptial Agreements
A pre-nuptial agreement sets out what you and your future spouse or civil partner agree should happen in relation to finances if your relationship breaks down and you separate.
Many more couples are entering into pre-nuptial agreements prior to marriage or civil partnership. If you are considering a pre-nuptial agreement we can give you advice on its effect so you can decide if it is right for you.
If you would like further advice please contact Michele Jenno or Yvonne Boyle to set up a 30 minute free initial consultation.
Mediation
Mediation is an alternative method of resolving disputes and enables you and your partner to resolve any differences amicably, without the expense and anxiety of court proceedings.
It is a voluntary process which enables couples (both married and unmarried) an opportunity to find ways to communicate, explore and hopefully agree any issues or difficulties following the breakdown of their relationship. These can include a variety of issues, but generally will include finance, property and arrangements for the children. By using a lawyer mediator, both parties benefit from the experience of a specialist in the family law process. This knowledge is particularly important when dealing with the issues which often arise in family matters.
Mediation does not mean reconciliation and it is not a form of counselling, but a powerful method of reaching an amicable resolution of the issues in family matters.
Why choose mediation?
The benefits of mediation are
- It is voluntary.
- More cost effective than other ways of resolving disputes.
- Decision making rests with you and so tailor made solutions are sought that suit you both, are workable and not imposed by the court.
- Seeks to avoid and minimise animosity and ill feeling.
Mediation involves both you and your partner meeting with an impartial and specifically trained mediator who can help you come to an agreement that is fair and acceptable to all concerned, without the need for court intervention. The discussions are of course strictly confidential and either party is free to leave the mediation process at any stage.
If you consider mediation is for you, or you wish to have a conversation with a mediator to explore whether the process can help you, please contact Michele Jenno.
