Do you understand what child arrangements are?

Our Pauline O’Rourke answers some commonly asked questions regarding contact, residence and child arrangements.

Quite often I am asked  “I want custody of my child” or “I want visitation rights” or quite simply “I want to see my child”. Getting the terminology right helps to understand what exactly are the rights of children and parents and how best to get the outcome you want.

The terms ‘custody’ and ‘access’ are no longer used and now we refer to residence and contact arrangements. In court proceedings an order is called a Child Arrangements Order  and this can include what time each parent shall share with the child or who the child shall live with and how much time the child shall spend with the other parent. Neither parent has a different label and no longer do we adopt battles and fights over custody and access.

If the parents

Top Tips for your first meeting with your solicitor.

We understand it is a difficult to decision on whether to start divorce proceedings and deciding to consult a family law solicitor can be the hardest step to take.  Even if you are not sure what you want to do, we can offer valuable, impartial advice in an initial meeting which will help you work things out.

These are some things to consider, when coming to see us, to make sure you get the best out of the meeting.

Make time

There will be a lot you wish to discuss, and there will be a lot to take in. Leave plenty of time to get all of your thoughts together and make sure you don’t have to rush off anywhere.  You will find it difficult to focus if your eye is on the clock.  Also, allow yourself some time after the meeting to reflect on

For Francine Bristo

“I would not hesitate to use New Leaf Solicitors again should the need be necessary”.

Ms N

LIFE IN LOCKDOWN: A day in the life of a Solicitor in our Wills, Probate and Lasting Power of Attorney team.  Amye Aris, our Wills, Probate and Lasting Powers of Attorney Solicitor shares with us what a typical day is like for her whilst we have been in lockdown.

It is fair to say that the way we all work has changed significantly over the past year and we have all had to adapt to these changes. As a consultant solicitor for New Leaf Solicitors I have always been home-based for my work which is great as it provides lots of flexibility around other commitments, my children, the school run etc. However the juggle of home schooling and having my whole family at home around my work has certainly made me more focused and time efficient!

8:00am – I start my day with a smoothie and walk with my dogs before settling down

Some very kind words from one of Kelly Bruton’s clients, very happy with her representation

“I just wanted to send a short note to say a big thank you for your support , guidance and negotiation skills over the past week. I really do appreciate it.  Kelly, your care and expertise shown through the negotiation phase and reassurance was fantastic”.

Mr C.