Family Law
Our Team are very experienced in matters of Divorce, Care, Injunctions, Contact with Children, International Child Abduction, Family Financial Disputes, Civil Partnerships and similar issues. We endeavour to provide a reassuring and sympathetic response tempered by a realistic and practical approach to what are often difficult and emotional circumstances.
As experienced family lawyers, we are aware that a sensitive, constructive and non-confrontational approach to settling differences is usually beneficial. Where children are involved, we always advise clients that, whenever possible, there needs to be a continuing positive working relationship between parents, even after separation.
This does not mean that we will not act in the interests of our clients as there may be occasions when we need to take a firm and uncompromising line to protect our client's interests but our prime concern will be to satisfactorily conclude everything as quickly and painlessly as possible so that all parties can move on to a more settled future.
We are able to advise same sex couples on any issues arising before entering into a Civil Partnership or the consequences of a Civil Partnership breaking down.
You may be eligible for Legal Help / CLS Funding and/or advice on Welfare Benefits.
access law is an Affiliate Member of the National Association of Child Contact Centres
Wendy Hewstone is an Accredited Specialist of Resolution (formerly known as the Solicitors Family Law Association) and an accredited member of the Law Society Family Law Panel.
Derek Parsons is an accredited member of the Law Society Family Law Advanced Panel and a member of Resolution
Ginnie Lambert is an accredited member of the Law Society Children Panel, a member of Resolution and an accredited member of the Law Society Mental Health Review Tribunal Panel.
Below are links to separate pages containing advice on various family topics (page will open in a new window):-
- Divorce/Dissolution of Civil Partnership
- Children: Care and Child Abduction
- Domestic Violence and Injunctions
- Advice for Cohabitees
Mediation
If there are disputes over children and/or finances, wherever possible we will encourage you to see an independent Mediator in order to attempt to resolve the dispute without the necessity of Court action. Mediation is usually required before Public Funding can be granted and unless certain exemptions apply, mediation must have been at least attempted before you are entitled to make an application to the Court.
Mediation is not binding although any agreement reached may be used to form the basis of a Court Order.
Information about mediation and mediators may be found at the National Family Mediation website or the UK College of Mediators.
You may also want to visit the Family Mediation Helpline.
A Collaborative Approach
access law can also offer, as an alternative to Court-based litigation, a Collaborative Approach to the resolution of child or financial matters following a relationship breakdown. Many clients find that in the long term they have a better relationship with each other as a consequence of such an approach which has a direct benefit for both themselves and any children involved. Derek Parsons is a member of Collaborative Family Lawyers.
Making a Will
It is also advisable that you consider preparing a Will, in particular to appoint testamentary guardians. You may be eligible for Legal Help for this purpose depending on your means and, if not, we offer a reduced price service for existing clients. Please note that if you do make a Will and you later re-marry that Will is automatically revoked and you should then make a new Will. For further information on Wills click HERE.
access law are proud to be listed at Divorce Aid
Divorce Aid is there to help anyone going through separation/divorce.
You are not alone.
