In the modern world, almost everyone will need to find a legal representative at one time or another.
One of the most common reasons to seek out legal support is in relation to family disputes. Indeed, while many people hope it will never be required, solicitors that specialise in family law are one of the most commonly sought after at law firms by clients, often because of marital breakdowns.
In the UK, family related law is an enormous area that requires special skill to navigate and it is unwise to try and get through a divorce or custody battle without seeking representation from a trained solicitor.
So, before you decide to try and negotiate your own outcome in an imminent custody hearing, here are five things that family solicitors in Portsmouth can help you with.
Mediation
If you and your spouse are having problems in your relationship but don’t want to divorce, family solicitors near Portsmouth can still be helpful. Meeting with one can allow you both to air your frustrations and, as is often advisable in such instances, your solicitor will help you draw up a postnuptial agreement.
Like a prenuptial agreement, this sets down who gets what in the event of a divorce and, while such documents are more common in the US, they are becoming more popular in the UK too.
Divorce
Of course, one of the most common reasons for needing family solicitors around Portsmouth is if you are about to begin divorce proceedings.
A solicitor will ensure that you get what you are entitled to if a prenuptial agreement wasn’t drawn up and will aim to do so without a confrontational approach or courtroom. As a divorce is never an easy process, a good solicitor will also offer you a sympathetic ear during this difficult time, and offer you advice on how to cope. That’s what they are there for!
Cohabitation
A relatively common occurrence in households across the UK is cohabitation; a couple living together long-term, who may or may not have children but are not married.
While drawing up a cohabitation agreement with a solicitor may not hold the same weight in court as either a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement, you will be surprised at how useful this document can be if you and your partner separate.
Domestic issues
Once again, this is an area of family law that nobody wants to think about, but domestic abuse is a very serious matter.
If you are worried due to your partner assaulting you, psychologically, financially or verbally abusing you, then it is time to approach a solicitor for help. They can defend you in court and will work with the police and social services to keep you and any children you have together safe.
Custody
Whether you are divorcing or stopping cohabitation, a family-based solicitor should work with both you and your former partner making arrangements about custody of children.
This will be based on the children’s best interests and is always advised to be approached with amicable intent.
