If you have received a letter from a solicitor on behalf of your ex-partner asking for contact with the children and giving you a timeframe to respond, it is important not to ignore it.
Choosing to ignore the letter may result in Court proceedings being unnecessarily issued against you. At that point, you will have no choice but to engage in those proceedings, which can be both lengthy and costly.
A common misconception is that responding to a solicitor’s letter automatically means you are going to Court. This is not the case. An amicable agreement between you and your ex-partner is absolutely achievable through your solicitors, without either of you going anywhere near the Court.
Therefore, if you have received a solicitor’s letter, don’t panic. Make an appointment with a solicitor and bring the letter with you.
At Edwards Solicitors, we take pride in our pragmatic and sensible approach to child contact issues. During your initial consultation with our Family Department, we will discuss the contents of the letter, the practicality of the proposals outlined, and your own views and proposals for contact. If necessary, we will also explain the Court process, the merits of going to Court, and the likely costs involved. We will also assess your eligibility for legal aid.
Edwards Solicitors provide advice and assistance on all children’s matters, including residence, contact, prohibited steps orders, specific issue orders, issues involving Social Services, child abduction and adoption. If you wish to make an appointment to discuss any of these matters, please contact the Family Department on 028 9040 8790 or email cmcgee@edwardssolicitors.com.