L AW ad v e r tisi n g feat u r e
Meet the Family Lawyer When it comes to the emotive, sensitive and long-term issues surrounding family law, children and divorce, you need to know the right experts who can assist you through those difficult times
Sarah Jackson
Matthew Drew
Lucy Terrell
Rebecca Silcock
What area do you specialise in? Family law – divorce and financial settlements, from modest assets to lottery winners and millionaires.
What key bit of advice would you give to someone considering a divorce? The best outcomes are achieved when couples are not at each other’s throats. Avoid fruitless point scoring and concentrate on the issues of real importance. Consider collaborative law as a constructive and civilised way of resolving disputes. Try to put the needs of any children first and do what you can to isolate them from any conflict.
How long have you been practicing? I qualified in 2007 and have been developing my expertise in family law since then.
What do you specialise in? I specialise in financial negotiations for divorcing people. I tend to assist people with complex financial affairs for example where there are family businesses, trusts, pensions or inherited wealth. I work alongside forensic accountants and other financial experts to ensure we secure the best possible outcome. I am collaboratively trained and will always consider non-confrontational resolution methods. Often where there are complex finances, a creative solution needs to be found and this can rarely be achieved in court. The judges options are limited whereas a negotiated settlement can be financially more advantageous for all.
Partner, BLB Solicitors 01225 462871 www.blbsolicitors.co.uk
What are the challenges? No two clients ever present with exactly the same facts and the law is always changing, which makes the job a challenge, but never dull. Trying to work out what is a fair outcome can be especially hard where there are children involved and there is not enough money to establish both parents in owned properties. What is your favourite part of the job? I love the meticulous task of drafting financial agreements; condensing complex agreement terms into one concise and unambiguous document can be very satisfying. But probably the most rewarding aspect of my practice is family mediation. It is humbling when a separating couple are able to put their differences aside and work together to reach settlement proposals. What sort of misconceptions do you commonly encounter? That instructing a solicitor puts you on an unalterable course to a court battle. With around 95 per cent of my cases being settled through constructive negotiations, this is simply not the case.
Head of Family Law Goughs Lawyers; 01249 712193 www.goughs.co.uk
What is the biggest mistake you see family law clients making? Some clients avoid seeking legal advice and try to represent themselves, often becoming overwhelmed by the process. This may also lead to an outcome that is not in their best interests, especially when dividing capital assets and pensions. They should never let themselves be bullied into agreeing something that doesn’t feel right. My advice is to seek legal advice early on, which often saves time and money in the long run. What professional accomplishment has made you most proud? Building the Goughs team into one of the largest in the South West comprising 10 superb family lawyers.
138 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
Mowbray Woodwards 01225 485736 www.mowbraywoodwards.co.uk
What do you specialise in? All aspects of separation, divorce and finances. Also children’s matters, helping parents agree on arrangements for their children following a separation. I have a specialist accreditation to Resolution in relation to private law children and domestic abuse. What is the biggest misconception about family law? I think some people fear legal costs will escalate out of control. Our policy is to be transparent and honest about costs and where possible we offer fixed fee options. It can be tempting to try and save time and money with a DIY online divorce. However, be warned that cutting corners could cost you dearly in the longer term. What key advice can you give to someone considering a divorce? Simply, come and talk to us. We will listen to your situation, explain your options and ensure you get the best possible outcome, so that you can move on with your new life.
Partner, Mogers Drewett 01225 750 000 www.mogersdrewett.com
If you could introduce one new law what would it be? It would have to be a no fault divorce. Following the recent case where the wife was refused a divorce, I think the time has come to accept that if two people agree to divorce then they should not have to point the finger at one. It means that matters so often start off on the wrong foot. What key bit of advice would you give to someone considering a divorce? Be honest and listen to the advice you are paying for, otherwise it will take longer and be more costly.