Making the decision to get advice from a solicitor about family matters can be daunting, so the team at Wake Smith wants to make you feel as at ease as possible.
We know that talking about your personal life, finances and children is a private matter, and we aim to deal with all your concerns and fears sensitively and empathetically.
Alison Gaddes, family solicitor at Wake Smith, suggests a few pointers ahead of a first meeting so you can feel more prepared.
She said: “Family breakdown and separation is one of the most emotionally challenging periods of your life and having the right legal advisor will help you get through.
“Before seeing your solicitor, it helps to write down a list of questions which you need answering.
“Depending on the question, your solicitor may not be able to answer this definitively, but an experienced solicitor will provide you with a number of scenarios, so you know the likely outcomes.
“Make a list of your financial assets, income and expenditure, so that you and your solicitor can have all this information to hand at the outset.
“If you have properties, try to enquire about their value from a local estate agent and contact your mortgage provider to find out how much is outstanding on your mortgage.
“If you have pensions, contact the pension provider and request the Cash Equivalent Transfer Value (CETV) This can sometimes take several months so requesting this early, will mean your solicitor will have the information early on.
“For those seeking a divorce, find your marriage certificate as your solicitor will need this to issue court proceedings.
“To resolve financial arrangements, it is always helpful to have sought independent financial advice before you see a solicitor. Although not essential, if you are thinking of making proposals involving property or investments, it’s always better to be forearmed with specialist advice and a knowledge of what your mortgage capacity is or whether you can release capital from an investment.”
Many people bring someone with them to a first appointment for support.
Alison added: “Think about bringing someone with you to your first appointment. Solicitors are used to having family members or friends in meetings for support.
“Many clients get them to write down what is discussed at the meeting, so you can refer back to it later if you have any questions.
“A solicitor’s role is to provide you with advice and support, as well as being objective. What you discuss with your solicitor is confidential and they will not tell anyone what you discuss with them. An experienced solicitor will not judge you or be shocked by what you have to say.
“You should be able to trust your family solicitor to support and understand your concerns, but at the same time act as a critical friend, if you do not feel you are being supported then you should consider changing your advisor.”
Finally, if you have children, think about the practicalities of you spending time with them and the other parent.
Alison said: “Consider what will happen at Christmas, their birthdays, and the holidays. Look at what your expectations might be and how will your arrangements be put into practice. Having an idea of what you think are reasonable proposals will assist your solicitor in formulating a pattern of arrangements.
“A good solicitor will not put pressure on you to proceed with their instruction. We know that not everyone who goes to see a solicitor is ready to proceed, but we will be here for when you are.”
To make an appointment to see Alison Gaddes call 0114 266 6660 or at [email protected]
