For many, Christmas 2024 brought its share of challenges and emotional strain, especially for couples facing uncertainty in their marriage or relationship. As the New Year begins, some are contemplating separation or divorce, while others remain unsure of the next steps. Seeking the guidance of a family solicitor doesn’t always signal the end of a relationship. Often, individuals seek early advice to understand their options—and in some cases, reconciliation may still be possible if it’s realistic and desired by both parties.
The first meeting with a family solicitor is crucial. For the client, it is an opportunity to meet with the person handling their case and ensure they feel supported and confident in their solicitor. For the solicitor, this meeting helps determine their client’s goals, manage expectations and consider if other professional advice is needed, for example from accountants, surveyors or independent valuers.
How to prepare for your initial meeting
- Ahead of your initial meeting you will be asked to provide photographic ID and proof of address. You may also need to share relevant documentation like previous court orders, prenuptial or postnuptial agreements or any existing parenting plans.
- To maintain privacy, it is important your partner does not have access to your emails especially through any synced devices. Confidential communication between you and your solicitor is vital.
- Before the meeting it is helpful to think about a chronology of key events and dates in the relationship, as well as details of who cares for the children if there are any, and in what proportion.
- Consider your primary goals and what you would be willing to compromise on during the process.
- Bring a list of questions you would like to ask as the first meeting can be emotional and you may therefore not be able to remember everything. While not all questions can be answered right away, your solicitor will explain to you what can be addressed immediately and when you can expect answers to your other questions.
- It is important to ask about fees. The solicitor will provide estimates as to potential costs and the initial meeting is typically offered at a fixed fee.
- Consider taking a friend or family member for support. With so much information to take in having someone else present can be helpful.
- Your solicitor should outline the process, the various options available and guide you on next steps so that you are then in a position to make an informed decision about your next course of action.
For confidential advice and information, please contact B P Collins’ family team at enquiries@bpcollins.co.uk or call 01753 889995.
