Family, collaborative Law and Mediation

WHAT ARE YOUR OPTIONS?

If you are separating you may wish to resolve matters with the help of a solicitor experienced in these matters and there are a number of options open to you. If you do need advice please contact us. We will be pleased to provide you with guidance either by telephone, e-mail or at an initial meeting. We usually do not make any charge for these initial exploratory meetings.

The current Government are seeking to ensure all cases are dealt with away from the courts wherever possible. We at Lemon&Co have for many years had trained mediators and collaborative practitioners specialising in such procedures.

We offer the following Options:

(1) Collaborative Practice without resorting to the Courts – This enables all concerned to meet, away from the courts, and to resolve all outstanding issues. When you have an agreement, the terms can be formalised enabling you to complete your divorce or separation, free from conflict.

(2) Round the table discussions (including Mediation) without resorting to the Courts – This enables there to be discussions about all outstanding issues at round-the-table meetings with your spouse and solicitor. When you have an agreement, the terms can be formalised, enabling you to complete your divorce or separation, free from conflict. In the unlikely event that you do not reach an agreement you still have the option to apply to the court for an order.

(3) Court - The formal proceedings the court offer, may be required to resolve your difficulties. This is usually when all other attempts to resolve matters have been exhausted. Our professional team will help you with this process which will often include the grounds for divorce, matters relating to your home your other assets, savings, pensions, businesses, and any liabilities. We will endeavour to resolve matters amicably, but if it is not possible, then proceedings can be issued. Even when proceedings are issued, the court will expect there to be continued negotiation. We can advise you on the timescales, costs and possible outcomes.

From April 2011 those intending to issue proceedings will have to attend a meeting to learn about Mediation. We have fully qualified mediators and Collaborative practitioners who are able to go through these matters with you.

(4) Children - you may need help in dealing with a number of issues: Where are they to live, who are they to see, when contact is to take place. These matters may be dealt with through negotiation. Court proceedings can be issued, but usually only as a last resort. We may call upon other professionals who may assist in finding solutions. We can help and advise you on the best way forward, hopefully avoiding contested and difficult Court proceedings.

(5) Living together and unmarried couples – there may be many issues needing resolution. As the law is slightly different to married couples, you may need specific advice to help you take the right decisions.

(6) Our specialist team - Our Solicitors and support staff has a broad breadth of experience and will be able to help you decide how you should move forward.

(7) Urgent matters - Often these relate to children or your immediate relationship with your spouse or partner. You may need immediate Court action and our experienced team of solicitors can deal this with for you.

(8) Making a Will - This is an important issue and requires your attention.

TELEPHONE: 0800 135 7917 (No Charge)