When to seek advice: family law solicitor or legal executive

I get asked this question a lot. In an ideal world, everyone should have access to legal advice and representation to help navigate tough times.

The short answer is - yes - if you can, you should at the very least obtain legal advice from an expert if you aren’t sure of your rights, you receive paperwork to say there are court proceedings, or you aren’t able to resolve the issue on your own.

What types of issues are covered under Family Law?

There are two main branches of Family Law - Public Law work and Private Law work. The simplified explanations are:

• Family Public law involves legal proceedings where a local authority intervenes to safeguard a child’s welfare, including care orders and supervision orders.

• Family Private law involves disputes between individuals relating to childcare and who can spend time with a child, as well as assisting people going through a divorce and needing a financial settlement.

The other aspect of Family Law involves domestic abuse injunctions and protection. Such as advice in respect of obtaining or defending against a non-molestation order or occupation order.

What is the role of a Family Law solicitor / Chartered Legal Executive?

A Family Law solicitor is a legal expert who provides tailored legal advice for your situation. They can also act on your behalf and represent you before and during court proceedings.

It is our role to provide advice in line with your best interests as well as warn you of any potential risks. We can also draft legal applications and statements.

We are trained to deal with all cases sensitively and with compassion. A Family Law solicitor should help you understand your legal position and what potential action could be taken.

We are always conscious about not inflaming an already delicate situation and follow specific rules on best practice and professionalism.

When should I get a Family Law Solicitor / Chartered Legal Executive?

As early as you can, but more importantly:

If there are serious disagreements relating to childcare, divorce, property, or your finances that cannot be resolved between you.

If you receive any paperwork from the Court or the Local Authority relating to court proceedings or child protection concerns.

If you have been the victim of domestic abuse (past, present, or concern for future) and feel unsafe.

If you are unsure of your rights and are feeling under pressure to do something that you aren’t comfortable with.

There are complex legal issues involved.

How much do Family Law Solicitors / Chartered Legal Executives cost?

Personally, I would say the biggest reason why people do not get legal advice or representation is because of the high cost of legal fees.

For Public Family Law cases, often, Legal Aid is often available to help fund legal fees.

For Private Family Law cases, individuals typically need to cover the legal fees themselves.

This can be expensive depending upon your specific case and is off-putting to most people.

Legal Aid is also available for Private Family Law cases, provided you are eligible. Eligibility can be assessed at the outset of your case.

Some Family Lawyers will offer one-off appointments for advice to help reduce legal fees associated with full representation.

Overall – Do I need a Family Law Solicitor / Chartered Legal Executive?

Family Law-related issues are often complex and overwhelming for most people. It is a personal decision as to whether you seek legal advice and representation.

If you can afford to do so, you should seek legal advice and representation. If you can’t afford to do so, you should consider eligibility for Legal Aid or a tailored service for advice.

If you are amicable and able to resolve the issues between you, you may not need full representation. However, it is still worth considering receiving legal advice.

Having a Family Lawyer can make a huge difference, often critically to how your case runs and the outcome.

If you are unsure, at the very least, have a first appointment and go from there.

How Forbes Solicitors Can Help You

The experienced Family Law team offers expert legal advice and support in family matters. Forbes Solicitors provides nationwide services, with consultations available via telephone, video call, or in any of our offices. Our dedicated Family division is here to assist you. For more information or to discuss your case, please don't hesitate to contact us.