- My relationship is breaking down. I want to walk away from my partner and my home. What should I do?
- My former partner has left home. I don't have enough money to pay the bills. What should I do?
- My partner and I have separated. We are arguing about who the children should live with and how often the other parent should see them. What should I do?
- My former partner is refusing to let me see my children. What can I do?
- My former partner says that we should try mediation? What does this mean, and what should I do?
- I'm told that divorces are expensive. I'm on benefits. What should I do?
- Why should I instruct Ridley & Hall?
My relationship is breaking down. I want to walk away from my partner and my home. What should I do?
Unless your relationship is violent, it is often wise not to do anything without the opportunity to think things through and take advice. We offer a free initial meeting to talk through issues so that you can decide what you want to do.
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My former partner has left home. I don’t have enough money to pay the bills. What should I do?
Generally speaking, the social security system will provide anyone in dire need (whether working or not) with “crisis” payments in the form of loans. You should contact the Department for Work and Pensions and arrange an appointment without delay.
The change of circumstances that arises when a couple separate means, amongst other things, that the Department for Work and Pensions and HM Customs and Revenue (which deals with tax credits) may need to be notified immediately. You may, because of separation, become entitled to a range of social security benefits for which you were ineligible previously. If you are in work when your separation happens, you should consider making a fresh claim for tax and child credits.
You may need separate advice if you either have, or feel that you are about to incur, serious debt. However anxious you are about disclosing your circumstances to other people, ignoring financial difficulties will almost certainly lead to greater problems, often within a short period of time. Citizens Advice Bureaux can assist you to obtain debt counselling.
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My partner and I have separated. We are arguing about who the children should live with and how often the other parent should see them. What should I do?
This is one of the frequent points of dispute when parents separate. It is extremely difficult for some couples to reach a mutual arrangement, despite the fact that satisfactory arrangements are essential for children’s well-being. It is obviously best if, whatever other disputes remain, the needs of children can be given priority.
Parents should do their best to reach agreement that will last. Mediation can often resolve the problem. If you still cannot reach agreement, seek legal advice. We offer a free initial meeting to discuss your circumstances.
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My former partner is refusing to let me see my children. What can I do?
You need legal advice. We can help you negotiate with your former partner. If that is unsuccessful we can refer you for mediation if appropriate.
If it is not possible to negotiate and mediation either breaks down or is not appropriate then we can help you make an application to the Court.
We offer a free initial meeting to discuss your circumstances.
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My former partner says that we should try mediation? What does this mean, and what should I do?
Mediation is a way of trying to agree important basic agreements between couples who are separating. Mediation is increasingly regarded by the courts as an essential ‘tool’ in helping to devise settlements between the individuals who are separating. As such, mediation tries to help decisions to ‘evolve’ rather than being imposed by the court. It should save couples money in legal costs.
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I’m told that divorces are expensive. I’m on benefits. What should I do?
Free legal help is available to most people on what are called “means tested benefits” such as Income Support, Job Seekers’ Allowance, and Working Tax Credit. Even so, your circumstances will have to be assessed. For your peace of mind, this can be done at your initial, free interview.
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Why should I instruct Ridley & Hall?
We understand the stresses and worries that arise in many family law issues. Our team is sympathetic and supportive at what we know will be a difficult time in your life.
- We will listen to you.
- We understand that you and your children are individuals with unique needs.
- We will be accessible and available when you need us.
- You will be central to any decisions that are made.
- We will keep you informed at each stage.
- We will avoid legal jargon.
- You will receive regular updates.
- We will keep our promises.
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For further information please call us on 01484 538421 or contact us via the online enquiry form.
