Divorce or separation can be a heartbreaking time, for couples and families alike. If there is animosity or conflict involved the situation can be even worse. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a negative impact on some relationships, with increased searches for online advice about ending a relationship and divorce applications and break-ups increasing.

This has led to an increase in enquiries to many law firms. Local law firm, Thatcher + Hallam provide specialist legal services in relation to a number of areas of family law. Hayley Veale, Head of Family Law at the firm, based in Midsomer Norton, provides this advice about the qualities she would be looking for in a solicitor, if she were in need of matrimonial relationship legal support.

"Obviously, technical ability and a detailed knowledge of the relevant law is to be expected", said Hayley, "But of far greater importance are the qualities of understanding and empathy. Sadly, there are still a few legal advisors who feel that relationship breakdowns are battles to be won and lost, but the reality is that all relationships, whether with partners, spouses or children, were once strong and are steeped in history."

Hayley has been accredited by and a member of Resolution, a professional body that promotes a constructive approach to family issues, for many years. Her role as a family lawyer is to advise her clients about the options available to them and then to work with the clients and the other parties involved to arrive at an outcome that is not only fair to the client, but ensures that damaged relationships are not worsened.

Hayley adds, "Emotions can quite often run high in areas of family law, and a part of my role as a family lawyer is to manage and channel those emotions, but never to ignore them. In my experience, once aware of their options, my clients are uniquely equipped to apply them to their own, often differing, circumstances. Clients should be able to make decisions about their future – not lawyers and this is something we always work towards."

For further information about the services provided by Thatcher + click HERE : the Thatcher and Hallam site Or call them on 01761 414646