Sinels to provide free Family Law advice at Clinic
A marriage is a life-long mutual commitment until something goes wrong. There are a huge number of things to think about and arrangements to make. People are frightened about finances and their home, worried about their children, and worried about the future. The emotional consequences of the whole process can be extremely traumatising.
Helping a client with the upset, sometimes anger and acceptance of the situation is an essential part of the lawyer’s role.
Sinels are providing free advice on family law matters at monthly clinics from 5.30 p.m. on the first and third Wednesday of every month. The first clinic will be on 17 February 2010.
The 20 minute appointments will provide initial advice to interested parties on their particular concerns and as to the legal and practical steps that can be taken towards helping to build a new life.
Please contact Sharon Doherty on 620500 to arrange an appointment.
Advice will be available on the following areas:
Relationship Breakdown and Divorce
Many couples facing the breakdown of their marriage do not want to obtain a divorce immediately. In such circumstances we can advise couples of the benefits of a separation agreement. If divorce is the only option then we can advise on this process.
Financial Settlements
The Court can impose a time-table on the parties, requiring full disclosure of their financial situation or the parties can resolve matters themselves whether through negotiation, mediation, round table meetings or collaboration. We can assist parties to reach a settlement by the means which is most appropriate to them.
Children’s Issues
This can be a highly emotional issue. It is important that the arrangements for the children’s future care and maintenance are discussed and we can advise on the consequences of a breakdown in a relationship on the children and the best way to resolve matters.
Mediation
In cases where the parties have remained on good terms it may be beneficial to instruct a trained mediator who will assist the parties reaching an agreement in relation to either financial or children matters.
Collaborative Law
Collaborative Law is a relatively new way of resolving family law disputes. Collaborative Law differs from mediation in that each party has a legal advisor present throughout the process and at all meetings. It is an open and transparent process that can ultimately result in a settlement that both parties are happy with.
Pre-Nuptial Agreements
The Jersey Courts retain the right to make orders disposing of financial claims even where there is a pre-nuptial agreement. However, a properly drafted pre-nuptial agreement may be pertinent to the Court’s final decision. We can advise as to whether a pre-nuptial agreement is right for you.
