Divorce is a highly stressful and complicated process and many people will not know where to turn at first, but getting advice from expert divorce solicitors based locally in Ipswich ensures that you will have the support you need all the way through. Amid the distress of a family breakdown, it is important to limit the pressure and ensure the settlement is arranged as smoothly as possible, without unnecessary distress and loss of time.
It may be possible for couples to arrange their break-up amicably amongst themselves if they can agree the division of property and child custody, but there can be hazards in doing this without involvement of solicitors. For instance, if there is no court order in place, then there is a possibility that your former spouse may be able to claim more assets from you in the future.
Some divorce solicitors, such as Barker Gotelee in Ipswich, offer an in-house mediation service which involves sitting down with a neutral third party, and this can often be particularly useful in making arrangements for children. It is also possible to contact a mediator direct as well as doing this through your solicitor. Talking to a mediator can be especially helpful if you find it hard to discuss issues with your ex-partner, which is often the case when emotions are running high. The Government is keen to promote mediation because it is felt that mediated agreements tend to be the best solutions for families and, where appropriate and by prior arrangement, there can also be scope for a trained mediator to talk to children directly.
It is important to be aware that solicitors can give one-off advice if you need some legal information about what is involved in getting divorced, even if you do not think it is necessary to have the whole divorce process handled by a legal firm in your particular case.
Divorce solicitors Ipswich - click here to find out more about how we can help you.
Ways of Making Divorce Arrangements
There are companies which offer quick divorces arranged online and provide you with the forms you need, together with a step-by-step guide, and they say in their advertising that this type of divorce will save you money.
However, while this may lead to savings in some instances, a disadvantage is that you will not have the face-to-face and personal advice which you would get by going to expert divorce solicitors in Ipswich who will be fully aware of your individual situation and able to answer your questions about the whole process of ending a marriage.
Also, if your finances are at all complicated, there may not in fact be any financial savings but quite the opposite, because most people do not have the expertise to sort out a fair settlement and decide on everything which needs to be included, so you could end up getting an unsatisfactory settlement which will need to be renegotiated later with additional costs.
Problems which could potentially arise include forgetting assets like pensions or property in drawing up a settlement. It is also important that a court order is obtained setting out the full financial arrangements of both husband and wife and looking at all joint assets, since if anything is missed out then it could lead to problems later on.
Using divorce solicitors based in Ipswich means you will have expert legal advice to help you find a good settlement for the longer term, and your solicitors will be there to support you in the future. Another advantage of seeking legal advice in person is that it can be helpful to speak to somebody face to face about complex issues rather than having to rely on email and this may even in practice prove to be quicker.
In the course of a divorce, questions and problems may crop up which you had not been aware of earlier on, and it is helpful to have someone who can provide you with expert information quickly and close at hand to avoid minor issues getting out of proportion. Experienced family solicitors in Suffolk or your own home area will also be able to refer you to support agencies if this is necessary at any stage.
About Barker Gotelee
As experienced and expert family solicitors based in Ipswich and serving the whole of East Anglia, Barker Gotelee are able to provide you with advice and support throughout the process of ending a marriage. We are committed to helping to find solutions through negotiation. We have a mediation service based in-house, as well as child mediation where this is felt to be appropriate.
Divorce solicitors in Ipswich and Suffolk – click here for information on Barker Gotelee's service.
Wednesday, 4 September 2013
Thursday, 1 August 2013
Solicitors in Ipswich – How to Protect Your Children during a Divorce or Separation
Once you have made the decision to divorce or separate, aside from choosing the right firm of solicitors in Ipswich, one of the things that will be at the forefront of your mind is how to protect your children - as they are the ones who are the most vulnerable during divorce proceedings. If you and your partner have made the decision to live separate lives, your offspring may be going through a host of emotions including hurt, fear, sadness, confusion and anger; and the sad fact is that many children blame themselves for their parents’ break-up.
If you have chosen to divorce or separate, as a parent you will naturally be worried about the emotional effect it will have on your children; however, there are certain steps you can take to minimise this. Whether you are looking to find a solution within your own family, or you want to seek outside help, this article looks at ways you can help safeguard your child during this challenging transition.
Barker and Gotelee is a well established firm of solicitors in Ipswich with an experienced family law department and mediation department. Our solicitors and mediators act with you to find a solution that works in the interests of you and your children as a priority.
Family Solicitors in Ipswich – Click here for full information on how our family solicitors can help you.
Ten Steps to Take to Help Protect Your Children Following a Marriage Break-Up
Talk to Your Children – Just as you will have your own issues to deal with during the marriage breakup, so will your children. When you break the news to your children about your separation, try to talk to them together (with both parents) if possible. Let them ask questions and answer them as gently as you can, without apportioning the blame on the other parent. When the discussion ends, leave it open to your children to discuss their thoughts and feelings with you; listen to them, and reassure your child/children that it is not their fault.
Distance Your Children from Any Conflicts – One thing that you should try to avoid when your marriage breaks down is getting your children involved in any conflicts between you and your spouse. It is important not to drag them into any arguments, or worse, to ask them to negotiate on your behalf. Remember that your child loves both parents equally and wants to maintain their relationship with both of you. Putting your children into a position where they are forced to take sides can be very damaging for them.
Communicate with Each Other – If you are going through a divorce, as well as communicating with your children, is important for you as parents to communicate with each other. The more amicable your divorce is, the more this will help lessen the effect on your children and will teach them how to resolve their own crises in the future. However, it is understandable that some parents may find it very difficult to communicate at this stage of their relationship; so it may be worth making contact via email, rather than telephone or face to face, to prevent your children overhearing any arguments.
Resolve Residence Issues in Advance – If you are able to discuss things amicably, there are various forms of compromises you can make. Try to think about how you can resolve issues of residence in the best interests of the children. Go through all the options including shared residence arrangements, holidays/term time, weekends/weekdays, to find something that works for all parties. Don’t ask children who they want to live with as they shouldn’t have to take sides, after all they are not the ones who are getting divorced.
Talk Over Financial Arrangements – Just as it is important to talk over child residence issues, it is also just as important to try and resolve all your financial issues amicably. This will also save money on solicitors’ fees in the long run as it avoids a long drawn out divorce. Remember if both parents are left with sufficient funds, it is not only you, but your children that will be the ones who benefit.
Keep Things as Normal As Possible – While issues are being resolved, and you are consulting with solicitors in Ipswich, try to keep things as normal as possible. This means not breaking your children’s contact with either parent, and for you to carry on with their schooling arrangements, club arrangements and your children socialising and seeing their friends and relatives as normal. It is always best to involve both parents in your child’s life; despite what the other party may or may not have done - a parent is better than no parent, and your children need a healthy balance.
Talk to the Children’s School – Explain to the school that you are getting a divorce and ask for the relevant teacher’s support. They can keep an eye on your child and give you feedback about whether the break-up is affecting your child’s schoolwork or relationship with the other children. Teachers are well versed with dealing with break-ups and most schools have some sort of counselling facilities that are available for children affected by divorce or any other issues.
Seek Mediation – If you find yourself unable to communicate with your partner, then mediation might provide the answer. If you do require mediation, Barker and Gotelee solicitors have an experienced mediation department, although we do stress that it is important to book enough sessions to be able to resolve all issues amicably. Sometimes this is the only way to move things forward and pave the way for a new beginning.
Think About Counselling – It could be that your child’s schoolwork may suffer during your divorce, or your children may also experience behavioural problems, and become angry with both or either parent, or lash out at their siblings. If you find that your child is deeply affected by the divorce and is having behavioural issues, there are various counselling and support groups that can help.
Join a Support Group – It is not only your children that may benefit from joining a support group, but you might do too. There are various parenting classes, or support groups available which cover minimising the impact of divorce on your children and you may want to join one of these to pick up some tips. They might be able to give you advice on how best to deal with some of the emotions that your child might be going through.
About Barker and Gotelee Solicitors
Founded 25 years ago, Barker and Gotelee solicitors in Ipswich have a well-established family law department and will help you achieve a solution so you can look forward to your new start.
Protect Your Children During a Divorce – Click here to contact our divorce solicitors or ask about our mediation service.
If you have chosen to divorce or separate, as a parent you will naturally be worried about the emotional effect it will have on your children; however, there are certain steps you can take to minimise this. Whether you are looking to find a solution within your own family, or you want to seek outside help, this article looks at ways you can help safeguard your child during this challenging transition.
Barker and Gotelee is a well established firm of solicitors in Ipswich with an experienced family law department and mediation department. Our solicitors and mediators act with you to find a solution that works in the interests of you and your children as a priority.
Family Solicitors in Ipswich – Click here for full information on how our family solicitors can help you.
Ten Steps to Take to Help Protect Your Children Following a Marriage Break-Up
Talk to Your Children – Just as you will have your own issues to deal with during the marriage breakup, so will your children. When you break the news to your children about your separation, try to talk to them together (with both parents) if possible. Let them ask questions and answer them as gently as you can, without apportioning the blame on the other parent. When the discussion ends, leave it open to your children to discuss their thoughts and feelings with you; listen to them, and reassure your child/children that it is not their fault.
Distance Your Children from Any Conflicts – One thing that you should try to avoid when your marriage breaks down is getting your children involved in any conflicts between you and your spouse. It is important not to drag them into any arguments, or worse, to ask them to negotiate on your behalf. Remember that your child loves both parents equally and wants to maintain their relationship with both of you. Putting your children into a position where they are forced to take sides can be very damaging for them.
Communicate with Each Other – If you are going through a divorce, as well as communicating with your children, is important for you as parents to communicate with each other. The more amicable your divorce is, the more this will help lessen the effect on your children and will teach them how to resolve their own crises in the future. However, it is understandable that some parents may find it very difficult to communicate at this stage of their relationship; so it may be worth making contact via email, rather than telephone or face to face, to prevent your children overhearing any arguments.
Resolve Residence Issues in Advance – If you are able to discuss things amicably, there are various forms of compromises you can make. Try to think about how you can resolve issues of residence in the best interests of the children. Go through all the options including shared residence arrangements, holidays/term time, weekends/weekdays, to find something that works for all parties. Don’t ask children who they want to live with as they shouldn’t have to take sides, after all they are not the ones who are getting divorced.
Talk Over Financial Arrangements – Just as it is important to talk over child residence issues, it is also just as important to try and resolve all your financial issues amicably. This will also save money on solicitors’ fees in the long run as it avoids a long drawn out divorce. Remember if both parents are left with sufficient funds, it is not only you, but your children that will be the ones who benefit.
Keep Things as Normal As Possible – While issues are being resolved, and you are consulting with solicitors in Ipswich, try to keep things as normal as possible. This means not breaking your children’s contact with either parent, and for you to carry on with their schooling arrangements, club arrangements and your children socialising and seeing their friends and relatives as normal. It is always best to involve both parents in your child’s life; despite what the other party may or may not have done - a parent is better than no parent, and your children need a healthy balance.
Talk to the Children’s School – Explain to the school that you are getting a divorce and ask for the relevant teacher’s support. They can keep an eye on your child and give you feedback about whether the break-up is affecting your child’s schoolwork or relationship with the other children. Teachers are well versed with dealing with break-ups and most schools have some sort of counselling facilities that are available for children affected by divorce or any other issues.
Seek Mediation – If you find yourself unable to communicate with your partner, then mediation might provide the answer. If you do require mediation, Barker and Gotelee solicitors have an experienced mediation department, although we do stress that it is important to book enough sessions to be able to resolve all issues amicably. Sometimes this is the only way to move things forward and pave the way for a new beginning.
Think About Counselling – It could be that your child’s schoolwork may suffer during your divorce, or your children may also experience behavioural problems, and become angry with both or either parent, or lash out at their siblings. If you find that your child is deeply affected by the divorce and is having behavioural issues, there are various counselling and support groups that can help.
Join a Support Group – It is not only your children that may benefit from joining a support group, but you might do too. There are various parenting classes, or support groups available which cover minimising the impact of divorce on your children and you may want to join one of these to pick up some tips. They might be able to give you advice on how best to deal with some of the emotions that your child might be going through.
About Barker and Gotelee Solicitors
Founded 25 years ago, Barker and Gotelee solicitors in Ipswich have a well-established family law department and will help you achieve a solution so you can look forward to your new start.
Protect Your Children During a Divorce – Click here to contact our divorce solicitors or ask about our mediation service.
Wednesday, 19 June 2013
Keeping Down the Cost of Divorce and Legal Separation – What You Can Do
When you have decided to separate or divorce and need legal advice, the first thing to do is to find good solicitors in Ipswich who can represent you. Next, you need to think about how to keep the costs down. The overriding way of minimising legal fees, whether for divorce, separation, or any other matter, is to minimise the time and effort required from your solicitor. Here we outline a number of ways that you can do this.
Solicitors in Ipswich Click here for full information on how our family solicitors can help you.
Give a Full Financial Picture as Early as Possible
Your solicitor will need a full picture of assets and debts for both yourself and your spouse. Full and frank disclosure minimises time spent in requesting additional information. Look around the house and gather together as much information as you can. This will all help to provide your solicitor with a clear idea of your finances at an early stage. Then take along a list of your income, assets and outgoings to the first meeting with your solicitor if you can.
Reach a Settlement Quickly But Thoroughly
Anything that you can agree between yourself and your former spouse minimises time spent in discussion with lawyers trying to agree. It can be difficult to talk to one another, but, if at all possible, discuss division of property and any childcare arrangements between yourselves before getting your solicitors involved. Even broad agreement can be helpful, because the finer details are easier to iron out once a general agreement already exists. Take your time over important decisions if necessary, because hasty decisions can be costly and complicated to reverse at a later stage in the process.
Using mediation can be a way to speed up settlement in cases where it has been difficult to reach agreement between yourselves, which will also save money in the long run. Professional mediation also provides a more thorough process, ensuring all key details have been considered. Mediators' hourly rates are normally split between the partners, so this can again help to keep down the costs.
Avoid Wrangles Over Low Value Items
It is all too easy for feelings to run high over a particular item which both ex-partners want, and for this to turn into an emotional tug-of-war. However, the time (and cost) it takes to argue over, say, items of furniture will probably outweigh the value of the goods themselves, as most second-hand household items are worth little in terms of cash. If the items have great sentimental value, it is a good idea to consider equitable means of resolving the issue. For instance, you could identify all items of sentimental value and share them equally between yourselves.
Keep Meetings Focused
Shorter meetings are less costly than longer ones, and you can help to keep them short by preparing well beforehand. Bring all paperwork and information asked for, and make a list of questions you want to ask. This will make it less likely that you will forget something and need an extra meeting as a result.
Keep Communication To the Point
Letters and emails to your solicitors in Ipswich should be concise, containing just the essential information without a lot of unnecessary detail. Although it can be tempting to let off steam if feelings are running high, remember that long, rambling letters and emails take time for a solicitor to read and pick out the relevant information, which again pushes up the cost to you.
Process Paperwork Quickly
Send the required documents to your solicitors as quickly as possible, and sign and return all paperwork right away, without causing unnecessary delays. Having to chase you for documentation takes someone's time and increases the costs which you will have to pay.
Always Be Contactable
Even if you go on holiday or have to travel on business, make sure your solicitors in Ipswich know where to get hold of you. If your solicitors have to try to locate you at a critical point in the process, this can quickly rack up costs.
Get Emotional Support
Many delays and obstacles that occur in the process of coming to a settlement, getting paperwork signed and so on, stem from one or other party feeling unable to make decisions or deal with the process due to their emotional state. This contributes to bigger fees and therefore causes more distress all round, as well as prolonging the process itself.
Getting appropriate emotional support (such as professional counselling or even just talking through the issues with friends) is therefore an investment, helping to keep down fees, as well as easing the process for yourself. Barker Gotelee can suggest appropriate therapists to help at this difficult time.
Solicitors in Ipswich - Click here to contact our divorce solicitors or ask about our mediation service.
Solicitors in Ipswich Click here for full information on how our family solicitors can help you.
Give a Full Financial Picture as Early as Possible
Your solicitor will need a full picture of assets and debts for both yourself and your spouse. Full and frank disclosure minimises time spent in requesting additional information. Look around the house and gather together as much information as you can. This will all help to provide your solicitor with a clear idea of your finances at an early stage. Then take along a list of your income, assets and outgoings to the first meeting with your solicitor if you can.
Reach a Settlement Quickly But Thoroughly
Anything that you can agree between yourself and your former spouse minimises time spent in discussion with lawyers trying to agree. It can be difficult to talk to one another, but, if at all possible, discuss division of property and any childcare arrangements between yourselves before getting your solicitors involved. Even broad agreement can be helpful, because the finer details are easier to iron out once a general agreement already exists. Take your time over important decisions if necessary, because hasty decisions can be costly and complicated to reverse at a later stage in the process.
Using mediation can be a way to speed up settlement in cases where it has been difficult to reach agreement between yourselves, which will also save money in the long run. Professional mediation also provides a more thorough process, ensuring all key details have been considered. Mediators' hourly rates are normally split between the partners, so this can again help to keep down the costs.
Avoid Wrangles Over Low Value Items
It is all too easy for feelings to run high over a particular item which both ex-partners want, and for this to turn into an emotional tug-of-war. However, the time (and cost) it takes to argue over, say, items of furniture will probably outweigh the value of the goods themselves, as most second-hand household items are worth little in terms of cash. If the items have great sentimental value, it is a good idea to consider equitable means of resolving the issue. For instance, you could identify all items of sentimental value and share them equally between yourselves.
Keep Meetings Focused
Shorter meetings are less costly than longer ones, and you can help to keep them short by preparing well beforehand. Bring all paperwork and information asked for, and make a list of questions you want to ask. This will make it less likely that you will forget something and need an extra meeting as a result.
Keep Communication To the Point
Letters and emails to your solicitors in Ipswich should be concise, containing just the essential information without a lot of unnecessary detail. Although it can be tempting to let off steam if feelings are running high, remember that long, rambling letters and emails take time for a solicitor to read and pick out the relevant information, which again pushes up the cost to you.
Process Paperwork Quickly
Send the required documents to your solicitors as quickly as possible, and sign and return all paperwork right away, without causing unnecessary delays. Having to chase you for documentation takes someone's time and increases the costs which you will have to pay.
Always Be Contactable
Even if you go on holiday or have to travel on business, make sure your solicitors in Ipswich know where to get hold of you. If your solicitors have to try to locate you at a critical point in the process, this can quickly rack up costs.
Get Emotional Support
Many delays and obstacles that occur in the process of coming to a settlement, getting paperwork signed and so on, stem from one or other party feeling unable to make decisions or deal with the process due to their emotional state. This contributes to bigger fees and therefore causes more distress all round, as well as prolonging the process itself.
Getting appropriate emotional support (such as professional counselling or even just talking through the issues with friends) is therefore an investment, helping to keep down fees, as well as easing the process for yourself. Barker Gotelee can suggest appropriate therapists to help at this difficult time.
Solicitors in Ipswich - Click here to contact our divorce solicitors or ask about our mediation service.
Monday, 13 May 2013
Six Ways to Minimise Divorce Stress
Divorce or separation ranks as one of the most stressful experiences of a person’s life, but there are ways of minimising this stress. The process of arranging legal and financial separation itself can be painful, although this often depends on the approach that is taken and the support given, especially by the solicitors who are handling the case.
Barker Gotelee has a sympathetic team of specialist solicitors who are experienced in dealing with partner breakdown and all associated matters, such as children and their residence, contact issues, finance and property, international family law, civil partnerships and domestic violence.
If you are experiencing a relationship breakdown, you are likely to be feeling a range of emotions including sadness, anger and uncertainty. Our solicitors strive towards achieving the best possible outcome for you at this stressful time, so you can rebuild your life and look forward to what the future brings.
While our experienced solicitors understand that facing divorce or separation is extremely traumatic, there are steps we can take to limit the stress.
1. Find a solicitor specialising in family law as soon as possible
The sooner you have an expert involved in your case, the sooner you can start making progress. Knowing what your options are early on helps to reduce the stress arising from uncertainty. Resolving the issue of property and finance is one of the main concerns and we make the process easier by helping you reach a solution, working diligently to get you the best possible outcome. If there is a business involved, such as a farm or a company you will also need a solicitor with experience in this business area too.
2. Reach a settlement quickly
Divorce raises all sorts of emotions, often with feelings running high on both sides. While it is important that your solicitor reaches a settlement as quickly as possible, they should also be slow enough to be thorough, as it is in your interest to consider all the fine details. If you follow your solicitor’s guidance, they will be able to draw up a settlement that is more likely to be approved by a court; this helps keep costs down as it avoids both parties meeting in court, which is a lengthy, drawn out process. Try to limit the to-ing and fro-ing as much as you can, as the sooner you both reach clarity, the less stress it causes. So, look for a solicitor with a collaborative approach, maximising the chances of finding an agreement between you and minimising the prospect of having to go to court.
3. Use mediation
As you go through a divorce or separation, you may find it hard to reach a compromise and may therefore overlook some of the most important matters of concern. Working with a mediator will give you greater focus as they work towards reaching solutions acceptable to both parties. If you find talking directly to your partner difficult, mediation offers an alternative. This will help you resolve difficult topics (such as money and property, and issues that relate to the children) amicably without having to go to court.
4. Reach clarity on children's arrangements quickly
If you and your partner find it difficult to reach a compromise, mediation (and in some cases children’s mediation) may be the best course of action. It is important to resolve matters that relate to children as quickly as possible. This is because it helps reduce the stress on your child if they know where they stand and how things are going to be from the start. Addressing your children's worries in this way and reducing their stress will also help reduce the parents’ stress levels too. If everyone knows what the arrangements are and sticks to the agreement (even before it has been imposed by the court) this reduces the opportunity of a long, drawn out conflict.
5. Aim for long term fairness
An agreement reached between both parties, with appropriate guidance from a solicitor (rather than an agreement imposed on you by a court) will be far easier for you to live with in the long term. This helps to reduce acrimony and makes it more straightforward for both parties to move on with the next stage of their life, thus reducing longer term stress.
6. Seek additional help if you need it
All sorts of issues arise in the case of divorce and separation; there’s not only the stress of the break-up to deal with and the consequences of this, but also the subject of money, and in some cases the damaging effect of emotional and/or physical abuse. Addressing these matters will reduce stress in the short and longer term. It’s a good idea to choose a solicitor who can suggest or make appropriate referrals to support services.
Barker Gotelee has a committed team of specialist divorce solicitors who strive to achieve the best possible deal for you using a collaborative approach to achieve fairness for both sides. We have a trained mediator in-house to help you avoid conflicts of interest quickly and easily – and child mediation is also available where appropriate. For sensitive issues, our solicitors are experienced in making referrals to the relevant support services, if necessary.
Solicitors in Ipswich – click here for more information on the range of services we offer.
Barker Gotelee has a sympathetic team of specialist solicitors who are experienced in dealing with partner breakdown and all associated matters, such as children and their residence, contact issues, finance and property, international family law, civil partnerships and domestic violence.
If you are experiencing a relationship breakdown, you are likely to be feeling a range of emotions including sadness, anger and uncertainty. Our solicitors strive towards achieving the best possible outcome for you at this stressful time, so you can rebuild your life and look forward to what the future brings.
While our experienced solicitors understand that facing divorce or separation is extremely traumatic, there are steps we can take to limit the stress.
1. Find a solicitor specialising in family law as soon as possible
The sooner you have an expert involved in your case, the sooner you can start making progress. Knowing what your options are early on helps to reduce the stress arising from uncertainty. Resolving the issue of property and finance is one of the main concerns and we make the process easier by helping you reach a solution, working diligently to get you the best possible outcome. If there is a business involved, such as a farm or a company you will also need a solicitor with experience in this business area too.
2. Reach a settlement quickly
Divorce raises all sorts of emotions, often with feelings running high on both sides. While it is important that your solicitor reaches a settlement as quickly as possible, they should also be slow enough to be thorough, as it is in your interest to consider all the fine details. If you follow your solicitor’s guidance, they will be able to draw up a settlement that is more likely to be approved by a court; this helps keep costs down as it avoids both parties meeting in court, which is a lengthy, drawn out process. Try to limit the to-ing and fro-ing as much as you can, as the sooner you both reach clarity, the less stress it causes. So, look for a solicitor with a collaborative approach, maximising the chances of finding an agreement between you and minimising the prospect of having to go to court.
3. Use mediation
As you go through a divorce or separation, you may find it hard to reach a compromise and may therefore overlook some of the most important matters of concern. Working with a mediator will give you greater focus as they work towards reaching solutions acceptable to both parties. If you find talking directly to your partner difficult, mediation offers an alternative. This will help you resolve difficult topics (such as money and property, and issues that relate to the children) amicably without having to go to court.
4. Reach clarity on children's arrangements quickly
If you and your partner find it difficult to reach a compromise, mediation (and in some cases children’s mediation) may be the best course of action. It is important to resolve matters that relate to children as quickly as possible. This is because it helps reduce the stress on your child if they know where they stand and how things are going to be from the start. Addressing your children's worries in this way and reducing their stress will also help reduce the parents’ stress levels too. If everyone knows what the arrangements are and sticks to the agreement (even before it has been imposed by the court) this reduces the opportunity of a long, drawn out conflict.
5. Aim for long term fairness
An agreement reached between both parties, with appropriate guidance from a solicitor (rather than an agreement imposed on you by a court) will be far easier for you to live with in the long term. This helps to reduce acrimony and makes it more straightforward for both parties to move on with the next stage of their life, thus reducing longer term stress.
6. Seek additional help if you need it
All sorts of issues arise in the case of divorce and separation; there’s not only the stress of the break-up to deal with and the consequences of this, but also the subject of money, and in some cases the damaging effect of emotional and/or physical abuse. Addressing these matters will reduce stress in the short and longer term. It’s a good idea to choose a solicitor who can suggest or make appropriate referrals to support services.
Barker Gotelee has a committed team of specialist divorce solicitors who strive to achieve the best possible deal for you using a collaborative approach to achieve fairness for both sides. We have a trained mediator in-house to help you avoid conflicts of interest quickly and easily – and child mediation is also available where appropriate. For sensitive issues, our solicitors are experienced in making referrals to the relevant support services, if necessary.
Solicitors in Ipswich – click here for more information on the range of services we offer.
Monday, 22 April 2013
Choosing a Family Solicitor
Choosing a family solicitor is both a personal and a practical choice which, when you find the right one, can form the basis of a relationship that can last for decades, supporting you through the various changes in circumstances that inevitably arise as part of life.
At Barker Gotelee solicitors in Ipswich, we understand the difference it can make to have a family solicitor to call on as and when required, to deal with issues promptly, to provide timely advice that can often avert the need for formal legal proceedings and, if necessary, to represent you should the need arise.
But if you're trying to choose between different family solicitors in Ipswich and the Suffolk area, how do you go about it? Ultimately, of course, it will be personal decision, but we have put together some key questions which may help to guide you towards choosing a family solicitor that suits you.
Solicitors in Ipswich – Find out more about Barker Gotelee family solicitors in Ipswich.
Do they specialise in family issues?
A family solicitor, of course, needs to be able to handle legal issues which apply specifically to families – such as family breakdown, children's issues, inheritance and so on. How these matters are handled will have an impact on the practical and emotional life of your family for years to come, so it's important to choose a solicitor with specialist knowledge and experience in this area.
Do they cover the full range of areas that you might need now and in the future?
The ideal family solicitor is someone that you can turn to quickly as different life events occur. In a time of crisis you want someone you already know and trust, who already knows you and your family and who can get "on the case" immediately without you having to hunt round for a different specialist each time.
For family breakdown issues can you trust them to focus on finding a good settlement rather than rushing to court?
If you need a family solicitor to help you reach a financial settlement with an ex-partner then look for someone who is committed to helping you both reach an agreement without going to court unless absolutely necessary. This will save both of you money and is also far more likely to result in an agreement that both of you can feel is fair going forward. This in turn has an impact on your ability to maintain amicable relations in the future, especially important if you have ongoing shared commitments such as children.
Do they offer a professional mediation service in-house?
While many family solicitors advocate the use of mediation to help come to an amicable separation settlement in the event of family breakdown, often this means being referred somewhere else. Ideally, look for a family solicitor who can provide this service in-house using experienced mediators.
Can they deal with non-family areas which nevertheless have an impact on the family?
Many areas of law may not appear to fall under the category of "family issues" but in fact there are few legal issues that don't have some impact on the life of a family.
For instance, business and commercial law can affect how or whether a business is passed to the next generation; property sales and transfers are often a response to a change in family circumstances; and accident claims can affect the provision of care for injured or disabled family members, with knock-on effects for the whole family. Choose a solicitor that can draw on expertise in all these areas when your family needs it.
Can they deal with cross-generational issues?
A family solicitor needs to be able to deal with issues arising for all members of your family, whether young or old. In addition they need to be able to deal with issues which affect more than one family member. Check that they have the expertise and experience to deal with a full range of family issues such as school appeals, childcare arrangements and adoption, as well as elderly client issues including wills, estate planning, inheritance tax and powers of attorney.
Are they easy to contact or visit in person?
It often helps to speak face to face, especially for very personal or complex issues, so being able to talk to your solicitor in private at an easy to reach location is invaluable. Look for a family solicitor that has an office in reasonable distance of your home, and who can be contacted easily by phone if you need to make an appointment.
Are they likely to be around in 10 or 20 years time?
If you are looking for a family solicitor to see you through life's ups and downs you want to have confidence that they will still be there well into the future. Choose a well-established firm with a track record of success in multiple areas.
Do you "click"?
While this might sound rather unscientific, being able to communicate easily with your solicitor is one of the most important factors in a successful client-solicitor relationship. You need a solicitor that you can feel comfortable talking to, who is on your wavelength and who is able to listen and tune in to what you need. This type of rapport is very hard to achieve working with solicitors remotely or even online.
About Barker Gotelee Solictors Ipswich
Barker Gotelee are family solicitors in Ipswich serving the whole of the East Anglia region, offering a range of specialisms for personal, family and commercial issues.
We have a dedicated Family Department which specialises in family law issues and can facilitate mediation as part of reaching a separation agreement. When dealing with a family breakdown situation we are committed to helping you achieve a settlement through negotiation processes, as we believe in couples and individuals deciding their own fate, rather than a judge.
Established in 1988, we have a wealth of experience in a range of specialisms and can deal with just about any area of civil law including injury claims, wills, tax and inheritance, agricultural and business law, property matters and more. Your personal solicitor within the firm can then bring in whatever expertise may be required to deal with your case without you needing to find the right expertise at a time of crisis.
Our Martlesham Heath office is just off the A12 between Ipswich and Woodbridge and is also within easy reach of Felixstowe, Wickham Market, Saxmundham, Framlingham, Aldeburgh, Needham Market and Stowmarket.
At Barker Gotelee solicitors in Ipswich, we understand the difference it can make to have a family solicitor to call on as and when required, to deal with issues promptly, to provide timely advice that can often avert the need for formal legal proceedings and, if necessary, to represent you should the need arise.
But if you're trying to choose between different family solicitors in Ipswich and the Suffolk area, how do you go about it? Ultimately, of course, it will be personal decision, but we have put together some key questions which may help to guide you towards choosing a family solicitor that suits you.
Solicitors in Ipswich – Find out more about Barker Gotelee family solicitors in Ipswich.
Do they specialise in family issues?
A family solicitor, of course, needs to be able to handle legal issues which apply specifically to families – such as family breakdown, children's issues, inheritance and so on. How these matters are handled will have an impact on the practical and emotional life of your family for years to come, so it's important to choose a solicitor with specialist knowledge and experience in this area.
Do they cover the full range of areas that you might need now and in the future?
The ideal family solicitor is someone that you can turn to quickly as different life events occur. In a time of crisis you want someone you already know and trust, who already knows you and your family and who can get "on the case" immediately without you having to hunt round for a different specialist each time.
For family breakdown issues can you trust them to focus on finding a good settlement rather than rushing to court?
If you need a family solicitor to help you reach a financial settlement with an ex-partner then look for someone who is committed to helping you both reach an agreement without going to court unless absolutely necessary. This will save both of you money and is also far more likely to result in an agreement that both of you can feel is fair going forward. This in turn has an impact on your ability to maintain amicable relations in the future, especially important if you have ongoing shared commitments such as children.
Do they offer a professional mediation service in-house?
While many family solicitors advocate the use of mediation to help come to an amicable separation settlement in the event of family breakdown, often this means being referred somewhere else. Ideally, look for a family solicitor who can provide this service in-house using experienced mediators.
Can they deal with non-family areas which nevertheless have an impact on the family?
Many areas of law may not appear to fall under the category of "family issues" but in fact there are few legal issues that don't have some impact on the life of a family.
For instance, business and commercial law can affect how or whether a business is passed to the next generation; property sales and transfers are often a response to a change in family circumstances; and accident claims can affect the provision of care for injured or disabled family members, with knock-on effects for the whole family. Choose a solicitor that can draw on expertise in all these areas when your family needs it.
Can they deal with cross-generational issues?
A family solicitor needs to be able to deal with issues arising for all members of your family, whether young or old. In addition they need to be able to deal with issues which affect more than one family member. Check that they have the expertise and experience to deal with a full range of family issues such as school appeals, childcare arrangements and adoption, as well as elderly client issues including wills, estate planning, inheritance tax and powers of attorney.
Are they easy to contact or visit in person?
It often helps to speak face to face, especially for very personal or complex issues, so being able to talk to your solicitor in private at an easy to reach location is invaluable. Look for a family solicitor that has an office in reasonable distance of your home, and who can be contacted easily by phone if you need to make an appointment.
Are they likely to be around in 10 or 20 years time?
If you are looking for a family solicitor to see you through life's ups and downs you want to have confidence that they will still be there well into the future. Choose a well-established firm with a track record of success in multiple areas.
Do you "click"?
While this might sound rather unscientific, being able to communicate easily with your solicitor is one of the most important factors in a successful client-solicitor relationship. You need a solicitor that you can feel comfortable talking to, who is on your wavelength and who is able to listen and tune in to what you need. This type of rapport is very hard to achieve working with solicitors remotely or even online.
About Barker Gotelee Solictors Ipswich
Barker Gotelee are family solicitors in Ipswich serving the whole of the East Anglia region, offering a range of specialisms for personal, family and commercial issues.
We have a dedicated Family Department which specialises in family law issues and can facilitate mediation as part of reaching a separation agreement. When dealing with a family breakdown situation we are committed to helping you achieve a settlement through negotiation processes, as we believe in couples and individuals deciding their own fate, rather than a judge.
Established in 1988, we have a wealth of experience in a range of specialisms and can deal with just about any area of civil law including injury claims, wills, tax and inheritance, agricultural and business law, property matters and more. Your personal solicitor within the firm can then bring in whatever expertise may be required to deal with your case without you needing to find the right expertise at a time of crisis.
Our Martlesham Heath office is just off the A12 between Ipswich and Woodbridge and is also within easy reach of Felixstowe, Wickham Market, Saxmundham, Framlingham, Aldeburgh, Needham Market and Stowmarket.
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