Couples are increasingly representing themselves at court in the mistaken belief that as Family Legal Aid is no longer available, they have no other choice. Since the Government cuts were implemented in April, this has been happening much more frequently according to Kate Taylor, Family Mediator and partner at QS Fisher Jones Greenwood Solicitors.
She went on to say: “Anyone who qualifies financially can still get Legal Aid to mediate all family issues. Legal Aid is also still available to take advice from a Solicitor with a Legal Aid Contract if you are using Mediation to resolve family issues, for instance, to take advice as to whether what is being suggested is fair, or for the legal work needed to put into effect any mediated agreement. QS Fisher Jones Greenwood are now one of the few local Solicitors’ firms with a Legal Aid Contract for Mediation.”
Mediation is a very sensible route for anyone involved in Family proceedings. Where Mediation is not suitable, such as in cases of domestic abuse or child protection, you can still get Legal Aid to go to Court:
- if you are a victim of domestic violence or abuse;
- if you need to protect a child from the risk of abuse or neglect;
- in cases of child abduction;
- in Care and Adoption proceedings
QS Fisher Jones Greenwood have been a major provider of legally aided Family Law advice and representation for many years and has a highly skilled team of family lawyers ready to help.