Family Law Service
The family law service provides advice, assistance and representation on domestic abuse, child arrangements, divorce and financial remedy matters. This year the service has provided many clients with one-off advice, and assisted a number of clients with court applications, negotiations and representation at court. This has provided valuable opportunities for our student volunteers, who have gained hands on experience of these matters, alongside their studies.
Case study
This year we assisted a client who was a respondent in a child arrangements case. The client was eligible for legal aid funding but due to the delay in processing their application, they were left without advice and representation at the first court hearing. As there was domestic abuse in their relationship, the client was vulnerable and concerned about attending court, especially alone. We advised the client and represented them at the first court hearing, and ensured special measures were in place for that hearing. We negotiated an interim contact agreement with the other party and agreed directions for the case to proceed. This meant the client felt safe and supported at court during a very difficult time and received practical advice and support at a vital stage in the process.
I am really grateful for the advice and help Katie and Phoebe have given. They made me feel reassured at a time which was very stressful.