Article in Pont News & Views

Easter comes early this year with Easter Monday falling on 1st April.  It is also April Fool’s day and a hugely significant from a legal point of view.

From 1st April 2013, in an attempt by the government to dramatically cut public spending, public funding, better known as legal aid, will no longer be available to most people seeking legal advice for separation or divorce, for matters relating to children or for financial provision on separation. There are predictions that as a result, massively increased numbers of people will be forced to represent themselves in family legal proceedings when their relationship breaks down.

At such a stressful and worrying time, when finances may well be stretched to the limit, access to expert advice is a priority. Knowing your options and rights is vital to choosing the appropriate the route to take, and understanding how best to take that route to reach the conclusion you are seeking. At Major Family Law, we believe that everyone should have access to the best quality legal advice when they most need it, so we work closely with each individual to offer a service tailored to that person’s specific circumstances and needs.

We offer a free no obligation initial interview during which we can establish the nature of your concern and outline your options to you.  We recognise that legal costs can be a huge concern,  so we will talk you through all our payment plans at the first interview and help you to find the right one for you.  At a time when a dramatically increased number of people will  find themselves unable to afford full legal representation, we offer a range of options to allow you to access our legal services, including:

  • A “pay as you go” service which literally allows you to pay for only what you need, when you need it, for example you may need help with form filling or advice before a hearing.
  • A fixed fee divorce. (terms & conditions apply)
  • A regular payment plan by standing order where you require a greater level of ongoing assistance.
  • One off assistance, for example drafting a pre-nuptial or separation agreement
  • Advice as to the appropriateness of a referral to  mediation or use of collaborative law

The landscape of family law is about to change dramatically. Don’t get caught out:  we will continue to offer the highest standard of legal advice in an affordable way to allow you to face your future with confidence.

If you would like to book a free initial appointment to discuss your concerns in confidence, you can visit us at 12 West Road, Ponteland, NE20 9SU or telephone 01661 824582. Email: Enquiries@majorfamilylaw.co.uk        Web: www.majorfamilylaw.co.uk

Anna Hunter is an Associate solicitor at Major Family Law and a trained collaborative lawyer. – twitter: @1ANNAHUNTER

 

QUOTE:

When there is no turning back, then we should concern ourselves only with best way of going forward.     -Paul Coelho-