Family Law – Should I Contact A Family Solicitor Now Or After Lockdown?

Here at Wilkes we remain open and ready to support you at this difficult time. Our Family Law Team are offering telephone or video interviews that can take place within 48 hours of initial instruction during the lockdown period.

If you are experiencing difficulties in your relationship during the lockdown, www.relate.org.uk can provide you with advice and tips for keeping relationships healthy during self-isolation and social distancing. If you feel your marriage has irretrievably broken down and you would like a Divorce, you do not have to wait until the lockdown is over as ‘The Family Justice System is continuing to function as normally as possible despite the present pandemic’ – Sir Andrew McFarlane, President of the Family Division 19.3.20.

Our specialist team of solicitors will firstly attempt to resolve your financial issues via correspondence in the most constructive manner and if Court proceedings need to be issued, and this should only be done as a last resort. The First Directions Appointment (FDA) and the Financial Dispute Resolution Appointment (FDR) can be dealt with via Telephone or Video Call if the Court buildings are not open by then due to the government restrictions.

Also, if you are experiencing co-parenting issues, we can help you make new or revised plans to help you get through the next few months by making contact with the other parent on your behalf. Alternatively, you may wish to contact a family mediator to help improve the communication between you and work things out. Further guidance on this can be found here.

If necessary and as a last resort, we can assist you in the preparation and submission of an application for a Child Arrangement Order to the Court. CAFCASS are carrying out their initial safeguard checks in the usual way for the First Hearing Dispute Resolution Appointment (FHDRA). The FHDRA can be dealt with via Telephone or Video Call if the Court buildings are not open by then due to the government restrictions. All interviews with the parties, professionals and children are being undertaken remotely.

If you require any help or advice in relation to any of the above please contact Jackie Lee on [email protected] or 0121 784 4443.