With Christmas just around the corner, many separated parents will be starting to work on arrangements for the festivities ahead. Sadly, making these plans isn’t always simple, and it can be hard knowing where to turn when problems arise.

Lisa Harbour, Associate Director and Deputy Head of Family Law at Jackson Lees, has summarised the ways in which we can help and hopefully limit your legal fees, so that you can make the most of your Christmas period.

Wirral Globe: . Lisa Harbour, Associate Director and Deputy Head of Family Law at Jackson Lees. Lisa Harbour, Associate Director and Deputy Head of Family Law at Jackson Lees (Image: Jackson Lees)

Christmas is a magical time of year, particularly for families with children. Unfortunately, however, the festive season can be a really stressful time of year for separated parents. With the cost of living increasing, and personal finances becoming more difficult to manage, this stress is merely exacerbated. When arrangements for the children cannot be agreed and legal advice may be needed, it is hard for parents to know where to turn.

Even for parents who have remained harmonious since separation, the current climate is going to be testing and may leave a lot of opportunity for disagreements to occur. If things don’t work out as well as you had hoped or you are concerned about discussing arrangements with your ex-partner, then it is best to seek legal advice as soon as possible. Leaving arrangements until the night before, or even the week before, can lead to further hostility and result in a disappointing and upsetting experience for all involved.

We appreciate that at present, many people are concerned about seeking legal advice through fear that this will cost them more than they can afford. At Jackson Lees, we want to do all we can to help you and your family during this time. We offer a range of services that can give you peace of mind knowing you’re getting Christmas under control.

1. We can help by liaising with the other parent on your behalf, to try and come to an agreement on Christmas arrangements. This may prevent the need to go to court. Not only does this empower you and the other parent, limiting animosity, but it also will help limit the costs of legal assistance.  

2. You can attend a one off ‘Where Do I Stand’ advice appointment that will provide you with your options, so even if you cannot afford legal representation on an ongoing basis, you at the very least know your rights. During this appointment we can also discuss how we may be able to assist you moving forward and what the estimated cost of this would be.

3. We offer legal aid for some family matters, for those who are eligible. Our empathetic team will listen to your circumstances and assess your eligibility for legal aid. If you are not eligible, we can then discuss your options moving forward.

At Jackson Lees, we acknowledge that your family is unique - what is important and works for your family may differ from other families. Regardless of how often you see your children, you are a significant person in their lives and it is important to be aware of what your rights and responsibilities are.

There is no better time than the present to attempt to start resolving any issues and to know where you stand with regards to the arrangements for your children. We are here to help, to listen and to make a positive difference to you and your family this Christmas!

If you would like to talk to one of our specialist family law advisers, please call us free on 0808 302 4835 (also free to call from mobiles) or email family@jacksonlees.co.uk or visit our website www.jacksonlees.co.uk

What Jackson Lees can do for you…

  • Fixed fee options available
  • Three local offices to choose from:
  • Heswall 0151 909 3206,
  • Hoylake 0151 909 3130,
  • Liverpool 0151 909 3235
  • Collaborative lawyers
  • Remote and telephone meetings

If you are in need of family law advice, contact our team to book an appointment or to chat through your options. Call us free from either a mobile or landline on 0808 302 4835.