How Family Courts in Cumbria operate is about to change. Hannah Smith, a Children Panel-accredited Solicitor and Partner at Bendles Solicitors, explains how important it is to have a solicitor by your side to offer practical support and understanding during an often difficult time.
When parents choose to separate, there can be some very difficult decisions to make about their children and their welfare.
Which parent will they live with? Which school will they go to? What happens if one parent wants to move abroad with them?
In an ideal world, these decisions can be reached between parents without the need of taking the matter to Family Court.
I would always encourage people, where it is safe and appropriate, to explore mediation or another form of out-of-court resolution first.
Unfortunately, this isn’t always possible and when a dispute does reach Family Court, my role as a Family Law solicitor is to guide people through what can understandably be a difficult and emotional experience.
From November 17, changes are being introduced to Family Court proceedings in Cumbria. The new model is designed to keep children firmly at the centre of the process, while also helping cases progress quicker.
One of the biggest differences is that the court will aim to gather as much information as possible from external agencies and the family, including the child or children, at an early stage. This will allow the court to make the necessary decisions with hopefully only one decision-making hearing.
For parents, that makes getting good, professional advice from the outset even more important.
You now may only have one opportunity to put your case to the court before a Child Impact Report is prepared and the first hearing takes place. It is therefore key to make sure your application, or your response to an application, gives the court all the information it needs.
That’s where the skill and knowledge of a solicitor who is experienced in making these applications can be vital.
Family Law is complex. But your solicitor can explain and advise on the Child Impact Report when that is completed and represent you at court. If someone hasn’t ever experienced the legal system before, the forms, reports and court hearings can feel daunting at a time when you may already be dealing with the emotional impact.
At Bendles, we explain everything clearly and honestly. We understand that Family Law cases aren’t simply about paperwork and legal processes. A solicitor’s role is also providing an element of emotional support.
We understand this can be a difficult and emotional time for parents and families. Everyone’s situation is different, which is why we pay close attention to our clients’ needs and find the right solution for them. We are always here to help and advise.
More information about the new court process is available at https://cumbriadfj.info/
For more information contact Hannah Smith at Bendles Solicitors on 01228 522215 or email hs@bendlessolicitors.co.uk
