Category: Uncategorized

Categories
Uncategorized

Top 10 Family Law Legal Directories in the UK: Pros and Cons

family law legal directories

Choosing a family lawyer is a significant decision, especially when dealing with sensitive matters such as divorce, child custody, or financial disputes. Legal directories can be invaluable resources for finding top-rated family law practitioners in the UK. Here, we examine ten of the leading directories, weighing their pros and cons to help you make an informed choice:-

Chambers and Partners

Pros: Chambers and Partners is a highly respected directory renowned for its rigorous research process, which includes interviews with clients and legal professionals. Its Family/Matrimonial Law section provides detailed rankings and editorial commentary on the leading firms and practitioners in family law.

Cons: The depth of the information can make it a bit overwhelming for first-time users, and some detailed content requires a subscription.

The Legal 500

Pros: The Legal 500 offers a thorough analysis of family law practitioners, with rankings based on client feedback and extensive lawyer interviews. It covers multiple regions within the UK, providing a comprehensive view of leading lawyers and firms.

Cons: The rankings can sometimes favour larger firms, which may not always reflect the best choice for more personalised or niche legal services.

Law Society Directories – England & Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland

Pros: The Law Society Directory is a reliable source for finding solicitors who are certified and regulated in the UK. Users can search specifically for family law specialists, ensuring they find someone with relevant expertise.

Cons: While trustworthy, the directory may lack detailed insights into individual lawyers’ reputations and specific strengths, as it focuses primarily on accreditation rather than performance.

Who’s Who Legal

Pros: Who’s Who Legal identifies top practitioners in family law through independent research and peer nominations. The directory provides an international perspective, which can be beneficial for cases involving cross-border issues.

Cons: Its rankings are less UK-specific than some other directories, which may limit its usefulness for clients seeking purely domestic expertise.

Five Fantastic Lawyers

Pros: Five Fantastic Lawyers stands out for its curated approach, showcasing top-performing family law practitioners who have consistently demonstrated excellence in client service and case outcomes. The directory highlights lawyers with a reputation for going above and beyond, offering a personal touch that larger directories may miss.

Cons: The directory is selective in its listings, which can be both an advantage and a limitation; while it features top lawyers, the pool of available options may be smaller than in broader directories.

Best Lawyers

Pros: Best Lawyers uses a peer-review system, with recomendations from other legal professionals informing its rankings. The directory’s Family Law section lists top-rated lawyers who have been recognised for their achievements in dispute resolution and matrimonial matters.

Cons: It may not provide as much detail about individual lawyers’ approaches or specific areas of expertise within family law.

Martindale-Hubbell

Pros: Martindale-Hubbell offers detailed lawyer profiles and peer review ratings, making it useful for assessing the reputation of family law practitioners. The directory also includes client reviews, adding another layer of insight.

Cons: Some reviews may be limited in detail, and the directory’s format can feel less user-friendly compared to modern, more intuitive platforms.

Wise Law

Pros: Wise Law specialises in connecting clients with top-rated lawyers based on a combination of peer recommendations, case outcomes, and client feedback. Its family law section allows users to filter searches based on specific legal needs, such as divorce, child custody, or financial settlements, making it easier to find a suitable match.

Cons: Although it offers personalised matching, the directory has fewer listed practitioners compared to broader platforms, which may limit the range of options, particularly in less populated regions.

Review Solicitors

Pros: Review Solicitors focuses on client feedback, offering detailed reviews and ratings for family law firms and individual practitioners. The platform allows users to search by area and legal issue, and the transparency of client reviews can provide valuable insight into a solicitor’s communication style, client service, and effectiveness.

Cons: Because reviews are client-generated, there may be variability in the level of detail or objectivity, and some listings may have fewer reviews, making it harder to assess the quality of those lawyers.

Resolution

Pros: Resolution is an organisation of family law practitioners committed to a constructive approach to family disputes. Its directory only includes members who adhere to its code of practice, which focuses on non-confrontational methods.

Cons: While excellent for finding solicitors dedicated to amicable solutions, it may not list lawyers known for a more aggressive litigation style if that is what a client seeks.

Doyle’s Guide (UK Edition)

Pros: Doyle’s Guide provides rankings of family law firms and individual practitioners based on industry feedback. It is well-regarded for its in-depth understanding of the legal market.

Cons: Coverage is more limited than some other directories, focusing mainly on top-tier firms, which may not always be the best fit for clients seeking mid-tier or boutique options.

Each of these directories offers a valuable tool for finding skilled family law practitioners, though their unique strengths and limitations should be considered to match your specific needs.

Categories
Uncategorized

Why Hiring a Lawyer is Crucial in a Product Liability Lawsuit for Consumers

If you find yourself involved in a product liability lawsuit, you need to understand the importance of hiring a lawyer.

Understanding Product Liability Lawsuits

Product liability lawsuits arise when a consumer is injured or harmed by a defective product. These cases can involve anything from faulty electronics to dangerous pharmaceuticals. The core issue is whether the product is safe for its intended use.

Real-Life Example: The Coffee Maker Incident

Take the case of Jane, who purchased a new coffee maker from a reputable brand. She was excited to use it but, on the first morning, it malfunctioned, causing severe burns. This incident led Jane to file a product liability lawsuitagainst the manufacturer. She had no idea how complex the process would be.

The Complexity of Product Liability Lawsuits

Jane’s story highlights how tricky these lawsuits can be. They often require detailed investigations and expert testimony. A layperson would struggle to navigate this without professional help.

The Role of a Lawyer

A lawyer plays a critical role in these cases. They gather evidence, consult with experts, and represent you in court. Jane’s lawyer was instrumental in proving that the coffee maker had a design flaw. Without legal assistance, she would have been overwhelmed by the legal jargon and procedures.

Proving Fault: The Heart of the Lawsuit

To win a product liability lawsuit, you must prove that the product was defective and caused your injury. This requires a deep understanding of the law and access to technical expertise. Lawyers know how to build a strong case by demonstrating that the manufacturer failed in their duty to ensure product safety.

The Legal Maze: Navigating Procedures and Deadlines

Filing a product liability lawsuit involves strict procedures and deadlines. Missing a deadline can result in your case being dismissed. Lawyers ensure that all paperwork is filed correctly and on time. They also handle negotiations with the opposing party, often securing settlements without going to trial.

Personal Experience: The Toy Nightmare

Consider Mark, a father who bought a toy for his child. The toy broke into small pieces, posing a choking hazard. Mark’s child was fortunately unharmed, but he decided to take legal action to prevent future incidents. Mark hired a lawyer who successfully argued that the toy’s design was inherently dangerous. The manufacturer was held accountable, and the toy was recalled.

Compensation: Getting What You Deserve

A successful product liability lawsuit can result in compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Lawyers fight to ensure you receive fair compensation. In Mark’s case, the settlement covered his legal fees and additional costs, providing peace of mind.

The Emotional Toll: Handling Stress and Anxiety

Being involved in a lawsuit is stressful. Lawyers offer not just legal expertise but also emotional support. They guide you through the process, answering questions and providing reassurance.

Choosing the Right Lawyer

Selecting the right lawyer is crucial. Look for someone with experience in product liability cases and a track record of success. Personal recommendations and online reviews can help you make an informed choice.

Final Thoughts: Protecting Your Rights

In conclusion, a product liability lawsuit is a serious matter. Hiring a lawyer ensures that your rights are protected and increases your chances of a favorable outcome. Whether it’s a malfunctioning coffee maker or a dangerous toy, legal expertise is vital in holding manufacturers accountable.

Real-Life Lessons

Jane and Mark’s experiences show the importance of legal representation. Their lawyers helped them navigate the complexities of their cases, resulting in justice and safety improvements for others. If you ever find yourself in a similar situation, remember that a lawyer is your best ally in seeking justice.

Taking Action

Don’t wait if you’re injured by a defective product. Consult a lawyer to understand your options and take the first step toward resolving your case. Legal action not only helps you but also contributes to making products safer for everyone.

By sharing these stories and insights, we hope to empower consumers to take action and protect their rights. Product liability lawsuits are challenging, but with the right legal support, you can achieve a fair resolution.

David Shoop is a nationally recognized lawyer and founder of Shoop | A Professional Law Corporation – one of California’s most successful plaintiffs’ firms.

Categories
Uncategorized

Gun Laws: Can You Fight Illegal Possession?

gun-laws-possessionIllegal possession of a gun comes with stiff penalties that can put you in quite a predicament. Depending upon where you live, the gun laws you have to adhere to vary as well as what penalties you face for illegal gun possession. While a defense attorney can help you when you are facing an illegal gun charge, you should know the laws for your state.

Continue reading “Gun Laws: Can You Fight Illegal Possession?”
Categories
Uncategorized

Teens and DUI: Which Parent’s Responsibility?

Teens and DUI: Which Parent’s Responsibility?

When a teen driver is involved in a DUI (driving under the influence) arrest or accident, it is automatically assumed that the parents are going to be financially responsible for their actions. While this is the case for most events, there is also the issue of divorced parents. If the teen has divorced parents, determining who is going to be financially and legally responsible for this event becomes a little more difficult.

If your teen has been charged with a DUI, deciding which parent is responsible as well as determining what can be done for your child may be a question that a law firm, like the Wilson Law Firm, could be hired to solve. Having a lawyer to assist in unraveling the legal aspects can help to relieve some stress so that you can better deal with the emotional turmoil that a DUI can cause.

Questions That Must Be Asked

• Who was caring for the teen at the time of the incident?
• Was the parent aware of the teen drinking?
• Was the other parent aware of the drinking?
• Who owned the car in which the drunk driving took place?
• Where was the teen heading to or coming from at the time of the arrest?
• Have there been other incidences involving alcohol and either parent?
• Who is deemed financially responsible for the teen’s actions according to the divorce decree?
• Who is financially supporting the teen? If both parents, who is considered the main guardian?

This is just a sampling of the questions that must be asked and answered to determine who is going to be responsible for the actions of the teen.

Because divorce and custody laws vary by state, the state in which you reside may have specific guidelines to determine the responsible party. However, as a whole, the main guardian is most likely to be held responsible for the actions of the teen unless it can be proven without a doubt that the actions of the other parent are what caused this event to happen.

DUI Punishment For Teens

The punishment for DUI convictions is also regulated on a state level. Each state has the right to establish its own guidelines. Overall, most states have severe punishments for underage DUI offenders, but it usually does not include jail time.

Underage offenders may be required to serve extensive community service and pay large fines. They will have their license revoked for a specific period of time. In some areas, they may even be required to retake the driver’s test at age 18 if they wish to have driving privileges as an adult.

If an accident resulted from underage drinking, the penalties may be even more severe. At this point, it is easy to assume that the teen will spend time in juvenile detention. Restitution may also be required to the victim that is above any payments received from the insurance company.

Parents, divorced or not, need to stress to their teens the importance of refraining from underage drinking and the terrible consequences of a DUI. Encouraging your teen to remain safe will not only protect them, and those around them, but it will also help protect each parent from being financially and legally liable for the actions of their teen should they get arrested or cause an accident while driving under the influence.

Melanie Fleury is the mom of a preteen and cannot begin to imagine the emotional and mental stress that a DUI would cause the family. She has found in researching situations where legal issues are faced by a family, that the Wilson Law Firm of Virginia helps clients to relieve the stress of trying to navigate the court system.

Categories
Family Law Property issues Uncategorized

How to Identify Police Misconduct

police brutalityPolice officers play an important role in our world. These professionals not only provide support and assistance during times of emergency, but also help to keep the community safe for all who live within it. While most police officers take their roles quite seriously, some have been known to participate in inappropriate behavior—often referred to as police misconduct. Understanding how to identify police misconduct is crucial for those who want to maintain their rights, while still staying within the good graces of law enforcement professionals.

 

Police Brutality

According to the US Department of Justice, police brutality is one of the most common signs that misconduct is taking place. Except for the in the most severe cases, police have even training and tools at their fingertips to complete their jobs without depending on brute strength. It is important to note that while police brutality is most commonly thought of as physical aggressive, verbal threats and sexual abuse may also fall under this category. Those who have experienced these events are likely the victim of police misconduct, and should report the behavior as soon as possible.

Selective Enforcement

Selective enforcement is another common signs of police misconduct. As suggested by the name, selective enforcement occurs when a police officer does not enforce certain laws or regulations when they are intimately connected with the person or person accused of committing the violation. The most common example of selective enforcement usually occurs in regards to traffic law—for example, a police officer chooses not to issue a citation to a friend or family member that he or she has pulled over for speeding. While it may be highly tempting to simply let these individuals off with a warning, it is actually a serious case of police misconduct.

 

Lying Under Oath

There are a number of police rights that are enforced in courtrooms and other law enforcement arenas around the world. However, these rights are only maintained in cases where the officer “plays by the rules” and maintain professionalism within the role that they have been given. Unfortunately, this is not always the case—in fact, some officers go so far as to lie under oath, in order to get the final outcome that they desire. As with the other factors described so far in this article, lying under oath is a serious sign of police misconduct, which should not be taken lightly.

 

Using Drugs/Alcohol While on Duty

As one might guess, police officers that use drugs or alcohol while on duty are also likely practicing police misconduct. Any officer of the law is expected to be clean and sober, as they may have to respond to a dangerous event at any given moment. Officers who have been found to be using drugs or alcohol while on the job may be placed on probation for an extended period of time. Regular blood and urine tests may be required if and when their role as a police officer is reinstated.

Categories
Uncategorized

How Your DUI May Affect Your Case For Child Custody

Driving under the influence is a serious crime and is usually punished severely throughout the United States. The consequences that a person faces can span from a loss of license to substantial jail time. Fortunately, many people are able to live with these repercussions, but this isn’t the case for everyone. Individuals involved in child custody cases, for instance, can face serious difficulties due to a prior DUI.

Direct Effects of a DUI

There is no set rule that says a DUI will affect a child custody case, but in reality, it could turn out to be a huge factor. A judge presiding over a custodial case is going to look at potential red flags when making their decision. A DUI conviction, especially a recent one, can stand out as one of these red flags. The judge will likely believe that the conviction shows a certain lack of maturity, and this is never good when fighting for rights to one’s child.

Additionally, the fact that an individual has spent time in jail can also be detrimental. Not everyone will go to jail after a DUI conviction, but it’s a definite possibility. According to group of Orlando DUI attorneys in Florida’s Orange County, for instance, a person convicted of DUI can be sentenced to up to nine months in jail on their first conviction. This will obviously negatively affect an individual if they’re incarcerated during custody hearings, but even having the record will look bad.

Those who have had multiple DUI convictions will face even more difficulties during a child custody case. Multiple DUIs essentially show a reckless disregard of a state and locality’s laws. A judge will not look fondly upon this, and additionally, they may believe that the individual places alcohol over their own, and potentially even their child’s, well-being.

Other Difficulties

Unfortunately, it’s not only the criminal consequences that can affect a child custody case. A driver’s license suspension, for instance, is an administrative punishment. This repercussion can stop a person from working due to a lack of transportation. Sadly, a judge is more likely to deny a person the custodial rights that they’re seeking if they’re unable to work for a living wage.

Some people think they can avoid the aforementioned situation if they work from home or have others transport them to and from work. It’s important to note, however, that the license suspension can still have negative effects on a child custody case. The simple inability to drive may be viewed as a reason to deny custody since the parent will be unable to drive their child to essential places like school and doctor’s appointments.

Individuals who don’t have families face a difficult enough time when convicted of a DUI, but those facing child custody cases are in an especially difficult spot. This is why it’s so essential for an individual to fight a DUI conviction as hard as they possibly can, and this includes finding legal help to avoid having a blemish on a criminal record. A failed breathalyzer or DUI charge is never an automatic conviction, but without legal help, it may likely seem that way.


Melanie Fleury lived in Orlando and has seen many DUI checkpoints. Orlando DUI attorneys Katz & Phillips know that every DUI case is unique. By having an attorney to help you mitigate your circumstances, you may be able to avoid the many penalties that can be laid down on a DUI offense.

Categories
Children Uncategorized

Cyber Crime And Children: What Every Parent Should Know

Blue Glow

Cyber Crime And Children: What Every Parent Should Know

Reports of cyber crimes regularly appear across the airwaves. For parents, these crimes can be particularly troubling, since so many involve children. As such, parent organizations, teachers, government, industry and non-profits have turned their attention toward making the online universe more safe for children. Safeguarding Children Here are some safety tips for parents:

  • Every parent who allows their child to be online should ensure that proper security guards and firewalls are in place at all times. Blocking inappropriate content using software designed for this purpose is a good method, however, it is still necessary to monitor a child’s activities online.
  • Parents should have all passwords and access to the computers that their kids use. Computers should also be checked on a regular basis to ensure that there are no inappropriate sites being visited or attempts by strangers to contact them. Strangers attempting to make contact with children through the Internet are in fact committing white collar crimes. As noted by attorney Kevin W Devore, “Although commonly referred to as ‘white collar crimes,’ these types of cases actually take on a variety of forms and concern a significant array of different subject matters.”
  • Kids should be educated about how to use the computer properly. Teach them about online safety by pointing out that there are criminals online who know how to get their attention. Explain how this could occur, how dangerous this is and that if they get a message from someone they don’t know, they should not answer it, and should tell an adult immediately.
  • One of the more common Internet crimes against children involves engaging them in conversation that leads to abduction and abuse. Children should refrain from entering chat rooms and chatting with people they do not know. They should also notify an adult immediately any time that something doesn’t look quite right.

Parents should report all instances of suspected cyber crime to the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) either online or by calling 1-800-CALLFBI as soon as possible. Be sure to first gather all of the pertinent information such as the time, online handles, websites and other particulars about the incident.

Technology

In order to safeguard kids online, parents need to know about all of the latest technology. Otherwise, they won’t know what to look for. This is the only way to check in on kids to see what they are doing and keep them safe and secure. Ensure that all privacy settings are set to the highest level on the computer and social media sites. Monitor all web pages and groups that kids belong to on a regular basis. Before allowing them to join any group, ensure that it is safe for them to do so. Let them know that even if they think they know someone, they will need parental permission to start an online friendship with anyone.

Parental Guidance

In addition to safeguarding kids online, parents must also be aware of the fact that children can also abuse Internet privileges. While many children may not intend to do so, there are times when a prank or seemingly innocuous activity can turn troublesome, if not dangerous.

Therefore, parents need to also educate their children on what is appropriate and what would constitute abuse online. For example, they should know that cyber crimes have severe fines and jail time penalties that could impact them and the family for the rest of their lives. For instance:

  • They should understand what bullying is and that it is a crime. Instead of talking about it online, they should discuss any issues they have with others with their parents.
  • Downloading from unknown or illegal sites can damage the computer and also make them vulnerable to future attacks.
  • Activities that involve hacking are considered crimes and could also result in heavy fines and jail time. For example, defacing or shutting down web sites or releasing viruses are criminal activities.

Repercussions

Parents should explain that a criminal record may cause:

  • Loss of school time that could impact grades and their ability to get into college or find work.
  • Financial loss and burden for the family due to legal fees and loss of time from work.

Finally, get to know other parents with whom the kids spend time. Ensure that the kids in the child’s circle have parental or adult supervision when they are using their computers. While this might be tricky, it is better to be safe than to be sorry.

Nadine Swayne understands the importance of keeping children safe on the computer. At the law firm of Kevin W Devore, legal representation is available if you have been charged with a white collar Internet crime. He has extensive experience with civil and criminal cases to benefit his clients.

Photo credit:  http://www.flickr.com/photos/sneddon/2399403962/

Categories
Claims Uncategorized

The Dangers of Aggressive Driving

aggressive driverAggressive driving: everyone has seen it. It’s the driver who gets too close behind other cars to try to push them into going faster. It’s the driver who speeds through school zones because they’re in a rush. It’s the driver who makes lane changes with too little room to do so, forcing other drivers to accommodate the aggressive driver’s poor driving. There are a few things that you can generally say about aggressive drivers and be assured that you’re correct:

 

  • They’re not as good at driving as they think
  • They endanger everyone on the road
  • They take risks that are downright stupid

 

What do you do with these drivers? Avoid them, if you can. You should also be aware of the risks that they do present so that you can anticipate what you might face when you run into one.

 

The Risks

According to the NHTSA, 60 percent of drivers that they surveyed for a study said that they feel that unsafe driving is a threat to them and their families. This is not too surprising. The NHTSA identifies some specific problems with aggressive drivers that good drivers should be aware of. For instance:

 

  • Aggressive drivers tend to not be concerned with other motorists
  • Aggressive drivers sometimes use the anonymity provided by their vehicles to vent aggression at other drivers
  • They are risk takers
  • They routinely break the law on the roads

 

All of this boils down to a portrait of a driver who is angry, a poor driver, who doesn’t really care about the welfare of other drivers and who takes risks, a habit which may be exacerbated by their frustration. These drivers pose risks that are too numerous to name one by one, but here are some of them.

 

Rear End Collisions

Aggressive drivers will ride your bumper, driving too fast and sometimes end up colliding with the vehicles in front of them.

 

Intersection Collisions

These drivers oftentimes disobey stop signs and red lights, causing wrecks and serious injuries to other drivers.

 

Violence

Aggressive drivers are typically angry, frustrated individuals who may react with anger if they are involved in a crash, even if they caused it. Be wary of this if you’re in a wreck with one.

 

Dealing with the Threat

Don’t retaliate. The best way to deal with aggressive drivers is to just let them go by and get out of their way. They can’t hurt you if you’re not near their vehicle. Aggressive driving is negligent. If you’re harmed by an aggressive driver, contact a car accident lawyer about filing a lawsuit to get compensation. No matter how much of a rush they were in or how good a driver they thought they were, aggressive drivers are responsible when they harm other motorists.

Categories
Uncategorized

A Closer Look at a Strange Anti-Condom Rule

Condoms!

A Closer Look at a Strange Anti-Condom Rule

Normally, college campuses work hard to give students tools to have sex safely, whether that means education outreach efforts, free STD screenings or confidential hotlines. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that there are about 19 million new sexually-transmitted diseases in the United States each year, and about half of those affect people who are aged 15 to 24, so building awareness seems appropriate. However, Boston College, a Catholic Jesuit University in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts has taken a different tact altogether by seemingly wanting students to practice abstinence or be unsafe in the bedroom. What’s the method? Banning condoms.

Why Free Condoms Are a No-Go

Recently, a campus organization called Boston College Students for Sexual Health came under fire for attempting to freely distribute condoms across campus. Beyond giving students information about being smart in the bedroom, the USA Today newspaper mentioned that the organization operates a series of 18 “Safe Sites,” spread throughout dorm rooms where students can get items such as condoms and lubricants.

Coverage on the CityTownInfo.com website notes that the student organization is not one that’s recognized by Boston College, yet the organization has received a joint letter from the college’s dean of students and the director of residence life, cautioning that if the distribution of condoms continued, anyone responsible would be subject to disciplinary action. The school asserts that such practices are against policy, because of the religious background of the institution. Although the letter did venture towards giving benefit of the doubt by mentioning that perhaps the students were unaware of such a policy, it leaves no doubt about the prohibition of further action.

The Backlash

It didn’t take long for the story to gain national attention, with many people coming out in support of the students instead of the college. New York Magazine reports that other Catholic universities including Georgetown, Holy Cross and Notre Dame stand behind the Boston College students, and an attorney from the American Civil Liberties Union mentions that if the issue isn’t dropped, the college will be subject to a lawsuit.

[Note for some of the top divorce attorneys in New York we have a guide here that could help]

Box of Condoms

An Odd Decision

Over the years, condoms have been banned in parts of Africa, and there has been debate about doing the same in the Philippines but nothing of that extent in America. During the 2012 presidential race, the Huffington Post reported that Republican candidate Rick Santorum did not want to ban condoms or birth control pills at the federal level, but felt that states should have the power to do so if desired. Even that possibility stirred up a flurry of negative comments across the country. Also, in 2010, Pope Benedict XVI admitted that although abstinence is preferred, condoms are a “real and moral solution,” especially in preventing the spread of AIDS. There’s even an organization called Condoms 4 Life that’s specifically geared towards people who follow the Catholic faith and want to practice sex responsibly.

The fact that these resources and opinions exist in the religious world seems to weaken the Boston College argument of the condom ban being based in religion, and suggest that perhaps there is a need to revisit college policy. Last year, the Lifestyles Condoms brand conducted a survey which found that one third of college students reported having sex multiple times per week, and 12% said they did it several times per day. As this data shows, college students are having sex, and making it harder for them to do it safely isn’t likely to change the trends.

Karen Alton writes for health blogs. If you’re sexually active in Denver, get lab work for std risk in Denver.

Categories
Uncategorized

Your Other Last Resorts – Things To Try Before Trying Divorce

Getting a divorce is an incredibly serious decision and should be treated as such. This is a last resort that will tear apart your family, destroy your dreams for the future and put an end to what’s probably the most important relationship in your life.

Of course though sometimes divorce can seem like the only resort if you are constantly arguing and if you’re making each other unhappy rather than happier, or if you just don’t feel the love that you used to for that person anymore.

Often though there are other options even though it might not feel that way – you just have to be willing to try anything. Here we will look at some of the other things to try before you give up on your relationships once and for all.

Counselling

Marriage counselling is something that can seem abhorrent to many people who maybe see it as potentially awkward, forced or embarrassing, or who perhaps lack faith in the whole concept.

Even if you don’t love the sounds of it though, you should always give counselling ago, just so that you can say you’ve tried everything. You may be surprised at just how insightful some counsellors can be, but more to the point you’ll find it sends an important message to your partner that you don’t want to give up.

You may also find that individual counselling can help. While you probably don’t see your dispute as your fault, it does take two to tango and if you aren’t happy in your relationship then this is going to come across in the way you deal with one another. Consider getting counselling then in order to deal with any issues that may be manifesting themselves in your relationships.

Time Apart

Sometimes you don’t appreciate what you’ve got until it’s gone. If you wait until your divorce has gone through to realise this though then it’s of course going to be a little too late. Instead then, try spending some time apart from one another before you reach that point and see how much you find yourself missing your partner. At the same time, spending time on your own can help you to work through your problems and to gain perspective. Sometimes we just need some ‘space’ and some time to think, and going away for a few days can help us to come back with a new game plan, a new sense of perspective and a better idea of what you want from your relationship and from your partner.

Talking Frankly

On other occasions though, this is something you’ll need to talk through together. If there are things each of you are unhappy with, then simply raising your concerns with one another can make you more likely to come to a conclusion. Try listing the things you are unhappy with for instance, and explaining why you feel the way you do. Too many of us avoid honest, frank discussion because we don’t want it to turn into an argument, and ironically this will often mean that when those issues finally do come to the surface, they end up being much more intense and degenerating into a full blown argument where both parties lose their cool.

If you try to ‘re-draw’ the terms of your relationship, you can change things that you’re both unhappy with, or just introduce new rules and ideas to try and make things easier. Perhaps for the sake of your children, agreeing to maintain a friendly relationship but sleep in different rooms could be a workable solution and this could eventually lead to a rekindling.

The Other Issues

Sometimes a marriage or a relationship can be doomed by circumstances outside of your control. For instance, if you are both very stressed by your careers, your living arrangements, or illnesses in the family, then this might mean that you end up arguing and feeling very tense when actually you could have been perfectly happy together.

If you suspect this might be the case, then see if changing your circumstances can help to make your relationship easier again. Perhaps you could move somewhere new, or maybe you could address your careers. This is of course a lengthy process though, so to find out more quickly if this is indeed the cause of your problems, try taking time off to go on holiday together and see if you can re-find your rhythm.

Featured images:
  •  License: Royalty Free or iStock source: http://www.andertoons.com/dating/cartoon/5007/its-not-you-its-me-and-how-annoyed-i-am-by-you/
  •  License: Royalty Free or iStock source: http://www.andertoons.com/sports/cartoon/1607/its-only-way-i-can-keep-his-attention/
  •  License: Royalty Free or iStock source: http://www.andertoons.com/marriage/cartoon/4907/im-tired-of-fighting-but-by-all-means-you-go-on-ahead/
  •  License: Royalty Free or iStock source: http://www.andertoons.com/sports/cartoon/3204/oh-come-on-how-many-big-games-can-there-be-in-weekend/

Beatrice Mackenzie is a regular blogger. She gives relationship tips and advice on her blog. She says choosing a divorce law firm can be a overwhelming task but with little patience and guidance anything is possible.

Categories
Uncategorized

How Can Family Mediation Help Couples Through Separation?

Whether you are experiencing the breakdown of a relationship or a marriage, family mediators can help you and your family through this difficult time.

Mediators help individuals produce a mutual agreement that will benefit both individuals. It is designed to help people focus on the future, once their separation has been finalised.

Couples find family mediation extremely comforting as mediators are completely impartial and unbiased. Instead of telling you what is right for you, mediators work with you to reduce any stress or conflict, assisting you to make your own decision. Individuals will be given the same amount of time to work through their stresses and problems. A mediator will only intervene if they feel any children’s needs or feelings are not being considered.

Mediation usually occurs in three stages; the initial meeting, working progress meetings and a final proposal meeting.

In the initial meeting you and your partner will meet with a mediator and discuss any issues you wish to resolve during the process. Your mediator may advise you to seek other help during this period, including financial or child support.  You can see a lawyer at any time during the mediation process. At this initial stage, you will also have to agree on times and dates when you both are willing to attend meetings. Compromise is a large part of mediation, so it’s beneficial to start with an agreement on meeting times.

During the sessions you will work through your issues with the mediator and try to find solutions that suit both of you. Talk about what your main concerns are and what you fear the most. Mediators will assist you during your own personal solutions to the issues you raise. Within the meetings you will both be working on a Mediation Summary, which is legal document stating what you each agree to stick to after your separation.

Once you have finalised the proposals which you both find acceptable, a copy will be sent to each of the party’s lawyers. If your proposals are approved by your lawyers, they will convert the proposals into a legal binding contract.

The first step towards family mediation will be contacting a solicitor who will set the ball rolling. Your solicitor will ask you and your partner to attend the initial meeting where you will meet your mediator. They will explain the whole process to you, giving you time to ask any questions or raise any queries. During this meeting, it will allow you and your partner to decide whether mediation is the right path for you.

If you do decide to go-ahead with the mediation process, you will attend a number of these sessions until you complete your Mediation Summary.

If you would like more information on family mediation, contact family law solicitors – Burt Brill and Cardens.

Categories
Domestic Violence Family Law Uncategorized

New Definitions aimed at Taking on Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is one of the most difficult and sensitive topics that family law solicitors have to deal with, and the cases tend to be personal and can be incredibly tough for victims and their families

Though It’s unlikely that we can eradicate the threat of domestic violence altogether as there is no accounting for the behaviour of criminal individuals, but the justice system does have a responsibility to ensure those who act violently are punished appropriately.

Thus, the government has decided this month to reword the definition of domestic violence with the aim of addressing some key discrepancies.

Incorporating Minors

Following a study from the British Crime Survey which found that those in the age range of 16-19 are the most likely to experience domestic violence, the new definition includes all of those over the age of sixteen.

By changing the law the government hopes not only to bring justice to those who previously would not have been able to prosecute, but it hopes to raise awareness of the problems of domestic violence in young people.

Psychological Coercion

The second major change to the law is the inclusion of coercion and, as it is to be stated in statute, ‘coercive control’. This appears to be an umbrella term which will encompass all manner of behaviours that restrict the freedom of one of the partners in a relationship.

This will include both clear cut cases where individuals threaten or deliver physical violence, either with regularity or as a one off, but it will also include less obvious cases.

For example, cases where individuals are cut off from sources of support, perhaps their families or friends or where they are prevented from acting independently. This could see a number of cases that previously would have been treated as civil problems criminalised.

Though this might appear like legal semantics, the changes will have a real impact upon the practice of family law solicitors and they will change the way in which domestic violence is perceived and treated when they are brought in March 2013. Hopefully, the new definition will mean more cases where aggressors are justly punished for their actions and victims will be allowed access to the support they need.

Overall, though, these changes should in general raise awareness to the trauma that is caused by domestic violence and, above all else, we will hopefully see a decline in the number of cases that are seen in the courts.

Here at Clough and Willis we have a dedicated team of domestic violence law solicitors who are headed by a Resolution accredited specialist. We advise and represent male and female partners as well as other family relations subject to verbal and physical assaults or harassment .

Categories
Family Law Uncategorized

Restraining Order Violations

(US family law and generally) Restraining orders are basically official legal notices that are meant to keep people apart. Most restraining orders are issued to individuals in order to keep them from having contact with other individuals, but in some cases, a restraining order can be issued to a group to keep all of its members from having contact with a specific individual or group.

Types of Restraining Orders

While all restraining orders are meant to separate people from contact with certain others, there are a variety of types of restraining orders. The most common type of restraining order is considered official and time restrained, meaning all parties have been notified of the terms of the order, and neither party can violate such terms within a given period of time. However, a temporary restraining order can be granted even if both parties are not aware of the order. An example of this may be when one party feels threatened and the other party cannot be located. These types of orders are usually granted on an emergency basis when a life is being threatened.

Penalties for Violating a Restraining Order

If you have been issued a restraining order, violating it may come with severe consequences. In most cases, violating a restraining order can result in jail time, fines and other penalties. If you happen to be on probation from another criminal conviction when found in violation of a restraining order, you may also face penalties from your original conviction in conjunction with penalties from violating your restraining order. Typically, the penalties for violating an official restraining order range from jail time to severe fines that can reach into the thousands of dollars.

Violating Your Own Restraining Order

At times, it is possible to violate your own restraining order, and thus, you yourself may be facing charges. Keep in mind that a restraining order is issued through a local, state or federal law enforcement office, and so all parties must abide by the terms. If you have sought out a restraining order against someone, and then you make contact, you run the risk of being found guilty of violating the order yourself. Our Charlotte criminal defense attorney warns that if you have brought forward a restraining order complaint, you cannot make contact with the person to whom the order has been issued against unless you want to face criminal charges yourself.

Defend Yourself

If you are facing charges for violating a restraining order, or if you have inadvertently violated a restraining order that you sought out yourself, you may need to partner with criminal defense attorney. A criminal defense attorney can examine the specifics of your particular case and restraining order, and he or she can assist you in not only building the best defense, but also in figuring out the best course of action to keep you protected in the future.

Remember, your health and your happiness is too important to risk. Don’t allow someone else to have control over your safety and security. If you feel that you or your loved ones are in danger, please seek out the protection of law enforcement and a restraining order. If you have already done so and you feel that your rights are not being respected, seek out the services of an attorney at once by searching the Internet or by looking through your local phone book.

Shelby Warden is a legal researcher and regular contributing author for the Law Firm of Powers McCartan in North Carolina. If you have been charged with violating a restraining order in North Carolina, it is important you take that this charge seriously. By contacting an aggressive Charlotte criminal defense attorney from Powers McCartan you can be confident they will fight to protect your rights.