Shared Parenting Specialists

Children Matters

I have experience of assisting parents regarding their children since 2004 at Magistrates Court's, County Courts, High Courts and the Court of Appeal.

I assist mothers, fathers, step-parents and grand-parents involved in the Court process.

I can provide guidance on the available options and will endeavour to inform of the viability, risks and prospects of success of such from our knowledge of the system.

I can provide an experienced and knowledgeable person to accompany you in Court to provide advice and support in the capacity of a McKenzie Friend. 

I can assist in drafting documents for Court, including statements, skeleton arguments, opening and closing submissions. We can also assist in drafting documents for other authorities involved.

With the Court's permission (Rights of Audience) your McKenzie Friend can act as a lay advocate, representing you in Court. This may be allowed by the Court in cases (but not confined to) which are relatively complicated or there are serious allegations or a party has difficulty representing themselves due to dyslexia or other disability. 

I can also provide advice on the best use of case law and the use of other authorities that may be relied on. The various procedures in and out of Court that are required to be followed can be explained in plain English.

I have experience in relatively simple cases and in difficult protracted cases and can assist you in achieving the best result possible for you and your children. For Conciliation, Directions, Review and Final Hearings our experience and knowledge will be helpful.

I have experience in areas such as leave to remove to another country, where it can be a devastating experience for children and also the parent who may be facing the loss of their children. Internal relocation applications (within England & Wales) can also be a horrendous situation for children and parent who may face a reduction in their time together. I can assist in providing advice on the best options and achieving the best outcome possible in Court.

In situations where children say they do not want to see a parent and there is a possibility that adverse influence on them has been taking place or there are reasons which are understandable but can be resolved, I can assist in providing guidance on how best to use the Court process.

I have experience of assisting when a CAFCASS Officer or Guardian is appointed or Solicitor instructed for a child, with Family Assistance Orders or when Children's Services are involved.

I can assist with the preparation for and assistance at Fact Finding Hearings, although we would normally suggest because there is no guarantee the Court will allow your McKenzie Friend to advocate for you, that perhaps this is an apt time to seek the assistance of a recommended barrister.

If you may or already have expert witnesses involved in your case such as psychologists, psychiatrists or family therapists - I can assist with dealing with such matters as instructions and understanding assessments and reports.

I provide support and assistance as required, throughout or for part of your involvement with the Courts.