We provide a wide range of legal services to the general public throughout Northern Ireland.

Matrimonial

8. Mediation

Mediation is a voluntary process that many couples find very helpful in dealing with the breakdown of their relationship without going to court. If you and your ex (whether previously married, living together, a same sex or a heterosexual couple) struggle to talk together on your own, but want to reach agreed decisions about the practical issues that arise on separation, mediation may be the right option for you.

Mediation is not counselling. It is focused on helping you reach decisions about practical issues, such as finding the best pattern of care for your children, and the financial arrangement which is most acceptable to you both. Instead of handing over the power to make important decisions to lawyers and to the judges who do not know you or your children, you jointly make those decisions.

We offer mediation to all of our clients, and are happy to discuss with you whether it is suitable for you.

7. Harassment & Domestic Violence

If you are experiencing harassment or domestic violence, you need to seek help urgently. We can give you advice about making the appropriate application to court for your protection. We know these steps are often taken in very difficult circumstances, and we will help you through these stages. It is important to feel supported during this time. We are responsive in a crisis and can take immediate action.

6. Civil Partnerships

Same sex couples are now entitled to register the relationship formally as a civil partnership. The effect of entering into a civil partnership with your partner is to place you in virtually the same position as a married spouse. You have a similar position on tax, state benefits, pensions, inheritance and immigration. Children born of either partner are treated as children of your family and the non-biological parent’s relationship to the children is recognised in rights and responsibilities.

If you are thinking of entering into a civil partnership, we will advise you about all the implications. So, for example, some couples want to clarify what should happen regarding their finances in the event of separation. In this instance, you may want to draw up a pre-nuptial agreement. You must do this at least three weeks before your civil partnership ceremony takes place.

We can also act for you in the event that your civil partnership breaks down. In these circumstances you will need to apply for a dissolution; the equivalent of divorce. We can assist you through the legal process of the dissolution, and in disentangling your finances. We can advise you and represent you in the event that the arrangements for the children are not agreed.

5. Cohabitation (living together)

Many couples live together as cohabitees without formalising their relationship by getting married or entering into a civil partnership. In fact, if you do this, you should know that under current law you have no legal rights as partners, even if you have lived together for several years. So contrary to popular belief, there is no such thing as a “common law” wife or husband.

If you and you partner are living together, we recommend you get advice about your situation. For all sorts of reasons, the law is not well-equipped to deal with cohabiting couples. This means that your wishes in the future and for the future, may not be taken into account.

4. Contact with Children following separation/divorce & Parenting Issues

As a parent you will have to make difficult decisions about your children whilst you go through a separation, and afterwards. Often it is difficult to agree on the best way forward with your partner. We are sensitive to these issues, and have many years of experience in helping parents to resolve their disputes in the best possible interests of the children, regarding contact and residence. If matters cannot be resolved amicably, we are at hand to issue the necessary court applications for you

3. Financial Issues & settlement

Reaching a financial settlement is always a cause of considerable concern to anybody contemplating divorce proceedings. We have a very great deal of experience in negotiating satisfactory financial settlements for our clients either by Agreement or through any necessary Court Proceedings. We are focused on ensuring that robust negotiations are carried out and that any necessary proceedings are not unduly drawn out

2. Separation & Divorce

The breakdown of a marriage or civil partnership can be a very upsetting, difficult and trying time for anyone. There are many issues to be dealt with and decisions to be made. We offer extensive and expert advice that is wholly focused on helping you through these difficulties. You will find us sympathetic and sensitive to the issues you are facing. Most importantly, we support you with practical and clear advice to deal with these issues and the decisions you have to make throughout. In addition, our Dawn Skelton has trained as a mediator and is therefore a skilled and experienced negotiator.

1. Pre-Nuptial Agreements

It is becoming more common for couples who intend to enter into a marriage or civil partnership, to consider having a pre-nuptial agreement drafted. A pre-nuptial agreement sets out what you and your future spouse or civil partner agree should happen in relation to your finances if your relationship breaks down and you decide to separate.

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