January is traditionally a busy time for family lawyers.
Couples whose relationships are in difficulties often put off plans to separate until after Christmas, not wishing to disrupt the children’s or extended family’s celebrations.
Time to make decisions?
This year of course the coronavirus pandemic has put an enormous strain on all of our relationships. Citizens Advice reports that matrimonial enquiries had risen by 25% in comparison to 2019, the pandemic having exacerbated any existing marital problems.
Extra pressure on families in 2020/21
The unprecedented pressures upon family dynamics in lockdown, with either or both partners being furloughed or working from home, sudden unemployment and home schooling have all compounded any existing underlying stresses within the relationship.
Conveyancing instructions have also risen, signalling an increase in parties separating and wanting to move on independently.
If you cannot resolve matters directly, then consider seeking legal advice to initially talk through your options. The family lawyers at Cunningtons’ three branches in Chelmsford, Braintree and Wickford are here to help and advise you, looking to prioritise your children’s welfare. Court proceedings will be a last resort.
We will attempt to resolve the situation by negotiation and compromise perhaps considering the mediation or collaborative law route.
If you require legal advice on any family matter – to include but not limited to – divorce/dissolution, separation agreements, financial remedy orders, children disputes, child arrangement orders, pre nuptial agreements, or civil partnerships we offer a fixed fee 30- or 60-minute appointment, remotely.
Branches open to help you
Please call any of our offices on the numbers below to discuss and get advice on your situation, or email jenny.lapwood@cunningtons.co.uk. We can offer out of hours appointments to suit you.