Court Documents
The documents that you may wish to put before the court include statements, skeleton arguments, opening/closing submissions and a Scott Schedule of allegations or responses to allegations. It really is important to ensure they will be well received by the judge and anyone else reading them. Too often parents will damage their case somewhat or even sabotage it completely by filing and serving documents which are counter-productive in content and poorly drafted. We help you get your view over to the court in an appropriate and a capable manner.
For each court hearing it is generally imperative that you provide a succinct professional position statement which will get your view and requirements before the judge efficiently. Our experienced and knowledgeable McKenzie Friends will assist you in drafting a relevant Position Statement that will get your position over to the court in a proficient manner. To produce a Position Statement that conveys the issues and solutions as you see it to the court in a way that is more likely to sway the judge in your favour takes experience and knowledge as well as certain drafting skills. They really are important documents which many times are the difference between success and failure at a hearing.
At certain times your Position Statement should contain references to relevant case law and research which may assist the court to decide in your favour. Our highly experienced McKenzie Friends will assist you in adding authorities that will improve your prospects regarding an issue without detracting from it as can happen when inexperienced parties provide such.
When filing and serving witness statements it is important to make sure they are also relevant and focused on the matters at hand. Drafting statements that put forward your view of past events and the present situation as well as your proposals for the court to consider is not an easy process for many. When there are possibly a host of issues that you may feel are relevant and you believe the court must be made aware of so it can make the right decisions, it is difficult to appreciate that sometimes this may not be the best approach and actually less is more very often. Diluting your strong points by swamping with minor issues can often detract from the effectiveness of your witness statement and even be extremely counter-productive to your case. Our McKenzie Friends will assist you in putting your case forward as sympathetically as possible in the circumstances and by doing so make it more likely that your views are heard and considered as measured and balanced, ultimately assisting your case before the court.
At appeals and sometimes at final hearings a skeleton argument may be necessary to bolster your case. This is a document that sets out the pro's and con's of both parties cases but leads the court hopefully towards deciding in your favour on the issues before it. The skeleton argument will often require references to applicable case law and research which you will need to assist the court with to raise the prospects of you being relatively successful in a case. A good document takes skill and practice to put together which our McKenzie Friends are able to do for you.
At contested hearings where oral evidence is going to be heard by the parties then written opening and closing submissions which go into more detail than a Position Statement may be necessary to raise your chances of success. If necessary our McKenzie Friends will assist you in drafting a written submission which can be put before the court rather than you making an opening submission oral statement, as the written submission can be far more effective in putting your view of the situation and its remedies as you see it across to the court.
Where the court asks for a Scott Schedule regarding a fact finding process whether within a final hearing or a separate fact finding hearing, it is important to be clear and succinct with the allegations and/or responses to allegations. The court will require that specific allegations are addressed individually on both sides, it is important to put forward your allegations or response to any allegations in a way that assists the court in understanding your view on the alleged incident. Again our McKenzie Friends can assist you with this.
Whatever the document our McKenzie Friends will assist you as required in putting together a document that highlights the merits of your position to the court.
I would not hesitate to recommend Jeff to anyone attending family court, he has the Knowledge, experience and integrity to help you achieve your goals. He worked at very short notice for me in an efficient manner both before and during the court hearing, making the oppositions solicitor look sloppy by comparison. Very pleased that I contacted him and would do so again if required.
Hi Jeff. Thank you for the notes, and for supporting me like you have over the past few months - We really got the outcome we were hoping for. You do a sterling job, really supported and guided me through the most difficult days and time of my life.
Thank you so much again.
Thank you so much again.
Hi Jeff, Just wanted to say a big thank you regarding overturning her lies had a great time with my daughter for the first time that should not of been prevented in the first place. Thanks again
After using a solicitor and barrister for a couple of years (and getting nowhere). I have found Jeff’s knowledge of the court processes and family law invaluable in progressing my court case for contact with my two boys.
Whenever we have been in court Jeff has always been fully prepared for the appearance and the suggestions/advice he has given me has helped me set the agenda in court. Jeff is measured in his approach and calm at all times whether in or out of court.
Whenever we have been in court Jeff has always been fully prepared for the appearance and the suggestions/advice he has given me has helped me set the agenda in court. Jeff is measured in his approach and calm at all times whether in or out of court.
FLD provided me with expert McKenzie Friend support to achieve a contact order that met all of my needs. Specifically, Jeff and Colin provided me with expert support to help me navigate the complexities of the law involved in dealing with children and families during a particularly traumatic stage of my life. Before discovering FLD I had spoken to a local solicitor who proclaimed that they dealt in family law but in a short discussion with them it was obvious that whilst they understood the legal system that needed to be followed they lacked the understanding of tactics and strategies that need to be employed to effect a successful result in my case. Of course, solicitors would also have been more expensive but more importantly I feel that they would not have approached my problems with the warmth and humanity that was offered by FLD. I also believe if I had used solicitors it would have taken much longer to achieve the outcome I was after.
I would recommend FLD without hesitation.
I would recommend FLD without hesitation.
Hello Jeff, and happy new year to you. We’ve been back at court today and finally have a judgement from HHJ Bellamy who has granted me permission to appeal and has agreed to investigations in accordance with our skeleton argument.
I wanted to thank you from the bottom of my heart for what you have done for us. HHJ Bellamy commented that it was a very detailed and extremely helpful skeleton argument, so basically you’re brilliant and I owe you so much.
The last part of HHJ Bellamy’s judgement was a bit of a blur as I was crying with relief. Obviously we need to discuss what happens from here.
Many thanks again.
I wanted to thank you from the bottom of my heart for what you have done for us. HHJ Bellamy commented that it was a very detailed and extremely helpful skeleton argument, so basically you’re brilliant and I owe you so much.
The last part of HHJ Bellamy’s judgement was a bit of a blur as I was crying with relief. Obviously we need to discuss what happens from here.
Many thanks again.
Hi Jeff. I hope you had a good holiday. I’m writing to let you know the outcome of the court hearing last week.
Thanks to your excellent witness statements and a really good CAFCASS reports we came away with all the orders applied for.
All in All a very good result!
Your help in this matter was invaluable. 6 months ago I was lost and in despair but thanks to you we can now settle back and get on with Family life again. Hopefully stress free from this point onwards!
I would not hesitate to recommend You to anyone in need of your services.
Very Best Regards
Thanks to your excellent witness statements and a really good CAFCASS reports we came away with all the orders applied for.
All in All a very good result!
Your help in this matter was invaluable. 6 months ago I was lost and in despair but thanks to you we can now settle back and get on with Family life again. Hopefully stress free from this point onwards!
I would not hesitate to recommend You to anyone in need of your services.
Very Best Regards
Calling Family Law Decisions was the best decision I ever made. I was in my third year of court cases and had used barristers for previous court appearances but was given poor advice and always felt disappointed, questioning which "side" they were working for. Two days before I was due in court (again), I rang Jeff Botterill and immediately, after having chatted at length about my court history, I felt a huge sense of relief knowing that I could now put my future legal battles in the capable hands of Jeff and his colleague Colin Brealey.
I have had the pleasure of working with Jeff and Colin, both highly knowledgeable and professional, they helped me remain calm under extremely difficult circumstances, without them supporting me in the background with all the court statements and by my side in court, I would have fallen apart. Their ongoing support has been overwhelming and this type of first class service is something you do not get using a firm of solicitors. I feel indebted to you both, thank you.
My advice to anybody looking at this website, pick up the phone, it will be your best decision that you have ever made too.
I have had the pleasure of working with Jeff and Colin, both highly knowledgeable and professional, they helped me remain calm under extremely difficult circumstances, without them supporting me in the background with all the court statements and by my side in court, I would have fallen apart. Their ongoing support has been overwhelming and this type of first class service is something you do not get using a firm of solicitors. I feel indebted to you both, thank you.
My advice to anybody looking at this website, pick up the phone, it will be your best decision that you have ever made too.
Hi Jeff, Thanks for writing up these notes and helping me to win the case. Good result. Best wishes
Thanks a lot for your help Jeff you're very experienced and helped me a lot. Thank you have a good weekend.
Thank you for the amazing support and help you have been over the last few years. I really can't tell you how grateful I have been for everything you did.
Have a lovely weekend!
Have a lovely weekend!
Jeff Botterill was my McKenzie friend for a Leave to Remove from the Jurisdiction hearing which I was opposing. I was very impressed at the quality of service Jeff provided. He helped prepare a Position Statement to present to my ex-wife's solicitor for negotiation in advance of the final hearing. He was very well prepared for the 2 court appearances (a further directions and a final hearing) and provided case history which won me my request for a Shared Residence Order, which on the advice of her legal team, had been turned down by my ex-wife when presented in the position statement. I think her legal team was rather surprised by the knowledge and case notes that Jeff had provided me in court.
His guidance and support throughout the court hearings was excellent. He put me at ease and gave me the confidence to represent myself. His knowledge of the law and the case history surrounding leave to remove exceeded any that I had heard from the two solicitors that I had used. He is also passionate about the need for both parents in the lives of their children. I would highly recommend Jeff to anyone else looking for a McKenzie friend.
His guidance and support throughout the court hearings was excellent. He put me at ease and gave me the confidence to represent myself. His knowledge of the law and the case history surrounding leave to remove exceeded any that I had heard from the two solicitors that I had used. He is also passionate about the need for both parents in the lives of their children. I would highly recommend Jeff to anyone else looking for a McKenzie friend.
Following separation it because impossible for me to secure parenting time with my young son. His mother wouldn’t allow him to spend more than two nights away with me, which made taking holidays impossible.
I met Jeff at my local FNF meeting. I was immediately struck not only by Jeff’s technical expertise but also by the calm, measured and authoritative way in which he gave others help and support.
I didn’t even bother looking for a solicitor, I engaged Jeff as my McKenzie Friend. He helped me file an application to court and draft a position statement. He subsequently helped support me in court.
In court Jeff was a rock-steady mentor, providing pragmatic and clear advice at just the right time. He negotiated with the other side and his clear familiarity with the system filled me with confidence in the waiting before the hearing. Importantly he had the confidence of the judge, who explicitly remarked on Jeff’s CV with obvious admiration.
In the hearing, following a rocky start (the judge thought my suggested residence schedule was too much for a 2 year old...and lots of allegations in mum's position statement - all ignored by Cafcass and the judge) the judge supported an amended schedule Jeff and I proposed; Jeff was then instrumental in hammering out a brief but prescriptive Shared Residence Order by consent.
The mother had applied for sole residence and proposed one Wednesday overnight a fortnight and every other weekend Friday to Sunday 6pm for contact. No holidays, other than alternate Christmas day.
I ended up with an SRO by consent, every Wednesday overnight and every other weekend Friday nursery pick up to Monday nursery drop off. I also got half of all holidays and alternate Christmas and Easter.
I am confident that with Jeff’s help, support and guidance I got the best outcome for my son; the long weekends and holidays in particular will help immensely in his relationship with me, his grandparents and his young cousin. I am sure I wouldn’t have secured such a good outcome for my son without Jeff’s calming influence, help and guidance.
I met Jeff at my local FNF meeting. I was immediately struck not only by Jeff’s technical expertise but also by the calm, measured and authoritative way in which he gave others help and support.
I didn’t even bother looking for a solicitor, I engaged Jeff as my McKenzie Friend. He helped me file an application to court and draft a position statement. He subsequently helped support me in court.
In court Jeff was a rock-steady mentor, providing pragmatic and clear advice at just the right time. He negotiated with the other side and his clear familiarity with the system filled me with confidence in the waiting before the hearing. Importantly he had the confidence of the judge, who explicitly remarked on Jeff’s CV with obvious admiration.
In the hearing, following a rocky start (the judge thought my suggested residence schedule was too much for a 2 year old...and lots of allegations in mum's position statement - all ignored by Cafcass and the judge) the judge supported an amended schedule Jeff and I proposed; Jeff was then instrumental in hammering out a brief but prescriptive Shared Residence Order by consent.
The mother had applied for sole residence and proposed one Wednesday overnight a fortnight and every other weekend Friday to Sunday 6pm for contact. No holidays, other than alternate Christmas day.
I ended up with an SRO by consent, every Wednesday overnight and every other weekend Friday nursery pick up to Monday nursery drop off. I also got half of all holidays and alternate Christmas and Easter.
I am confident that with Jeff’s help, support and guidance I got the best outcome for my son; the long weekends and holidays in particular will help immensely in his relationship with me, his grandparents and his young cousin. I am sure I wouldn’t have secured such a good outcome for my son without Jeff’s calming influence, help and guidance.
Hello Jeff, I have read the witness statement and took on board what you advised.
There are a couple of amendments to make, rest is perfect and to the point. You have really nailed it Jeff by making it flow so well and to the point. Thank you so much for your immense help and for being there with me all the way. I will send you an email when all is done or I need any other advice.
Until then a massive thanks once again.
All the best.
Kindest regards
PS: I told my sister about you liking the different spicy food. She told me to invite you at some point to try ........... food.
There are a couple of amendments to make, rest is perfect and to the point. You have really nailed it Jeff by making it flow so well and to the point. Thank you so much for your immense help and for being there with me all the way. I will send you an email when all is done or I need any other advice.
Until then a massive thanks once again.
All the best.
Kindest regards
PS: I told my sister about you liking the different spicy food. She told me to invite you at some point to try ........... food.
Thank you so much for all your help today. After the initial ruffle, as I never expected divorce matters would be given time as part of children's proceedings when also in a different court, we had a pretty fantastic outcome today. Ex was never going to agree to further contact so it was a long shot, but the fact he agreed to the DNA testing and to accept the failure of our marriage is down to his adultery is amazing stuff. Unexpected as all were, today was a very important day. A real turning point and I'm so grateful to have had your support and expert advice. It does go to show the significance. Thank you so very, very much. Hoping your journey back went ok too. Enjoy the rest of your evening,
Jeff has given me more than any solicitor ever could. Due to Jeff's insight and experience, I have regained a special bond with my daughter. There are no quick fixes with the UK's legal system, but Jeff has taught me to be a better person, whilst winning over the Judges in court. Jeff Botterill is worth his weight in gold and if you care about your children then you will be a lucky person to have Jeff on your side. As long as you listen to his advice you will stand a fantastic chance of being able to be a good parent to your children.
Hi Jeff. I hope you had a good holiday. I’m writing to let you know the outcome of the court hearing last week.
Thanks to your excellent witness statements and a really good CAFCASS reports we came away with all the orders applied for. All in All a very good result!
Your help in this matter was invaluable. 6 months ago I was lost and in despair but thanks to you we can now settle back and get on with Family life again. Hopefully stress free from this point onwards!
I would not hesitate to recommend You to anyone in need of your services.
Very Best Regards
Thanks to your excellent witness statements and a really good CAFCASS reports we came away with all the orders applied for. All in All a very good result!
Your help in this matter was invaluable. 6 months ago I was lost and in despair but thanks to you we can now settle back and get on with Family life again. Hopefully stress free from this point onwards!
I would not hesitate to recommend You to anyone in need of your services.
Very Best Regards
Jeff, your experience of the English Family Justice System is second to none and you have been invaluable in helping me achieve 50/50 contact for my daughter. Thank you very much for all your help and advice.
Hi Jeff, how are you I hope you are well. Thank you again for your support and help yesterday. I couldn't have done it without you.
Having spent thousands of pounds with solicitors and barrister's in court over a battle to see my children, I ran out of money but wanted to continue with the proceedings. I was advised to look for a Mckenzie friend, I found Jeff Botterill. He was honest, clear and very helpful. He produced brilliant statements and on the day of court he gave me lots of support and guidance. I wish I had found Jeff sooner!
Thanks Jeff for all the advice and help leading through a tricky set of court cases against the mother of my child who, a solicitor herself was determined to make it as hard as possible to get access to my son. I originally went through a family law solicitor before a chance conversation lead me to look up McKenzie friends on the net. Going down this route and choosing Jeff's company was the best decision I made. Not only was the rate substantially more expensive via the solicitor compared to Jeff, but the high level of advice and general passion for the job was obvious from the start with him. Previously access was sporadic and when it fitted in with the mother's life, now I am now building up a great relationship with my son with alternate weekends and holidays. I have no hesitation in recommending Family Law Decisions to anyone who was in the same position as I was and looking to get regular access to their children.
Jeff, good luck for the future. You're a credit to what you do, very skilled and kind. Merry Xmas and a Happy New Year.
On the advice of my McKenzie (the excellent Jeff Botterill), we appealed successfully to a Circuit Judge - who also then reserved the case to her - and the whole momentum of the process shifted, ultimately to my (and my son's) great benefit...excellent level of parenting time, SRO, etc.
Dear Jeff, Thank you very much for the notes and assisting me today. I'm very grateful to you for your support and advice. I am so glad that you were with me. You helped me get the result I hoped for.
Jeff Botterill is an extremely experienced and client focussed McKenzie Friend, committed to operating in an approachable and down to earth manner, always to the highest standards of quality and professionalism. He gave me a lots of moral support and friendly guidance through my case and I wish I met Jeff before. Top Man!!! I would highly recommend him to anyone for the family court matters.
Many thanks for your services.
Many thanks for your services.
Hi Jeff, I would just like to thank you for all the help you have given me it has been truly invaluable.
I hope I never have to employ you again, but knowing her I probably will!
I hope I never have to employ you again, but knowing her I probably will!
Court proceedings between my son's mother and me had been ongoing for a year before I contacted Family Law Decisions. The case had become quite complex, with social services, a legal guardian, and other expert witnesses becoming involved. The way things were going, there was a distinct possibility that I would lose touch with my son. With the help of Family Law Decisions over the past year, I have been able to turn my case around and my application for Parental Responsibility and Shared Residence has now been ordered.
Family Law Decisions provided me with a McKenzie friend (Jeff Botterill), advice on the process, help working with the various experts, and other ongoing support, maintaining their child-focused ethos throughout. They clearly have extensive experience of the family law process, and they are sensitive to the effects that it all can have on a 'litigant in person'. I am hugely grateful to the support that Family Law Decisions have provided in helping me stay in touch with my son, I could not have done it without them. I wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone seeking a child-focused resolution.
Family Law Decisions provided me with a McKenzie friend (Jeff Botterill), advice on the process, help working with the various experts, and other ongoing support, maintaining their child-focused ethos throughout. They clearly have extensive experience of the family law process, and they are sensitive to the effects that it all can have on a 'litigant in person'. I am hugely grateful to the support that Family Law Decisions have provided in helping me stay in touch with my son, I could not have done it without them. I wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone seeking a child-focused resolution.
Mr Jeff Botterill has assisted us in a family Court matter as our McKenzie friend. We obtained Jeff's details through Families Need Fathers website and have found the advice, support and loyalty to be exemplary.
When we began in the Family Courts we were paying for legal representation in the form of various Solicitors and Barristers, some progress was made but this took some 2 years to achieve at extortionate costs to us.
We approached Jeff to enquire whether he would be able to assist us in the continuing family matter and Jeff confirmed his terms and conditions to us from the outset, we were very happy with all of the details that Jeff passed over to us and we were pleased to have his support.
Jeff has been a lifesaver. Literally. Jeff's knowledge of the process that we have been going through is comprehensive and moreover, Jeff has a unique insight into our particular circumstances and has, on many occasions, offered us his support and advice on how to deal with matters that surround the Court case. This has proved invaluable and has helped us both cope with the process on many occasions.
Jeff's integrity and honesty are outstanding, he is a man amongst men. Jeff had complete compassion for our situation. Jeff has a keen eye for details and is extremely prompt with his responses - which has helped us cope with some stressful situations.
Our only regret is that we did not know of Jeff's existence when our Court proceedings began - we are completely certain that his involvement from the start would have benefitted the matter a great deal and not to mention, save us a considerable amount of money that we had to pay for legal representation.
We have absolutely no hesitation in recommending Jeff to anyone.
When we began in the Family Courts we were paying for legal representation in the form of various Solicitors and Barristers, some progress was made but this took some 2 years to achieve at extortionate costs to us.
We approached Jeff to enquire whether he would be able to assist us in the continuing family matter and Jeff confirmed his terms and conditions to us from the outset, we were very happy with all of the details that Jeff passed over to us and we were pleased to have his support.
Jeff has been a lifesaver. Literally. Jeff's knowledge of the process that we have been going through is comprehensive and moreover, Jeff has a unique insight into our particular circumstances and has, on many occasions, offered us his support and advice on how to deal with matters that surround the Court case. This has proved invaluable and has helped us both cope with the process on many occasions.
Jeff's integrity and honesty are outstanding, he is a man amongst men. Jeff had complete compassion for our situation. Jeff has a keen eye for details and is extremely prompt with his responses - which has helped us cope with some stressful situations.
Our only regret is that we did not know of Jeff's existence when our Court proceedings began - we are completely certain that his involvement from the start would have benefitted the matter a great deal and not to mention, save us a considerable amount of money that we had to pay for legal representation.
We have absolutely no hesitation in recommending Jeff to anyone.
I used Jeff Botterill as my Mckenzie Friend for my case. After experiencing the expense of using a solicitor the initial attraction of using a Mckenzie Friend was the price, however the advice and support I received was invaluable.
Going to court is a nerve racking experience in any situation and representing yourself seems like an extremely daunting task, questions like what to prepare? where to stand? what to say? Were just a few of the things I was concerned about but having Jeff with me gave me the knowledge and confidence to successfully represent myself.
I am now enjoying regular and increasing access to my daughter
Going to court is a nerve racking experience in any situation and representing yourself seems like an extremely daunting task, questions like what to prepare? where to stand? what to say? Were just a few of the things I was concerned about but having Jeff with me gave me the knowledge and confidence to successfully represent myself.
I am now enjoying regular and increasing access to my daughter
Hi Jeff, Just to say thankyou for your support at the hearing your advice was really helpful and your knowledge in legal matters was very useful.
I have for the support and advice from Jeff invaluable. I decided to act as a litigant in person for a combination of financial reasons but also because I wanted to maintain control of my case and ensure the best outcome for my children. Initially I did this on my own and soon ran into difficulties (despite being a confident person in a profession which involves public speaking and analyzing information).
Having Jeff’s support has helped due to his: knowledge of legal matters; ability to prepare clear concise statements; and quick thinking in the court room. But its not just these knowledge and skills – he combines a supportive understanding of a very difficult and upsetting situation with a clear headed willingness to tell you when he think such emotions risk making you say or do unhelpful things. Thanks to Jeff’s support I have seen my children for the first time in a couple of years and am awaiting a more permanent contact order to be put in place.
Having Jeff’s support has helped due to his: knowledge of legal matters; ability to prepare clear concise statements; and quick thinking in the court room. But its not just these knowledge and skills – he combines a supportive understanding of a very difficult and upsetting situation with a clear headed willingness to tell you when he think such emotions risk making you say or do unhelpful things. Thanks to Jeff’s support I have seen my children for the first time in a couple of years and am awaiting a more permanent contact order to be put in place.
Jeff is an excellent MF. During the final hearing, in which I had to face my abusive ex husband, Jeff's knowledge and professionalism gave me the strength to stay calm and confident. He is very upfront and honest with the merits of your case and where there may be problems which means that you go into the session feeling like there are no surprises that can appear. Jeff was so good in preparing my closing submission as he was able to get to the main points of my complex case and put forward suggestions and justifications for my arguments. I felt safe in his capable hands and would highly recommend him to any woman going through the family court system
Thanks a million again for yesterday, the notes were great and I will be pursuing this transcription of the judgment.
All the very best
Thanks a million again for yesterday, the notes were great and I will be pursuing this transcription of the judgment.
All the very best
Hi Jeff. Hope you are well. Sorry it's been a while. Thought I'd drop you an email and touch base with you to let you know I finally have supervised contact at High Holborn contact centre. I have 3 more sessions before we move to supported contact which will be for 6 months. Just wanted to say thank you to you for all your help from the start. I wouldn't have been able to endure the process without your support and guidance. Kind Regards
Result! Jeff helped me to win my Final Hearing so my daughter can now come and stay at my house. Straight talking and knowledgable he was better than my previous barrister and around a quarter of the price. I wish I had known about McKenzie Friends a year ago and would recommend Jeff to any father going through the slow pain that is the UK family court system.
Hi Jeff,
Hope you are well?
Apologies for taking so long to write to you. I’d wanted to get in touch and thank you for your service during court proceedings. It was really comforting to have someone there with me that knew the process, was understanding of my situation and wanted the best for myself and child.
I know that you went above and beyond and ended up doing CAFCASS’ job on the day too so really appreciate everything.
Take care
Hope you are well?
Apologies for taking so long to write to you. I’d wanted to get in touch and thank you for your service during court proceedings. It was really comforting to have someone there with me that knew the process, was understanding of my situation and wanted the best for myself and child.
I know that you went above and beyond and ended up doing CAFCASS’ job on the day too so really appreciate everything.
Take care
Jeff thank you so much for today and all your help and advice I am over the moon with the outcome and couldn't of done it without you you made me feel at ease and confident in everything I was doing and I can not thank you enough for helping me through today. Hope you have a lovely evening and like I said thank you again.
Having been given notice that my ex-partner was applying to the Family Courts to relocate our daughter to Australia, I knew I had a serious, potentially life changing, problem on my hands but I was instantly certain I would be defending myself. Previous experience I had garnered in the courts was nothing short of depressing and had left me eminently reluctant to be legally represented. Aware that various historical incidents provided for a strong defence, I simply did not trust any solicitor to care enough to collate and disclose the wealth of information I had at my disposal in the manner which best suited my case, nor did I have the funds it would have cost me to commission them to do so.
Previous experience had also taught me that attending court is an overwhelming and daunting experience so I was conscious that I needed some form of guidance to see me through to the end. Which is when I found Family Law Decisions and in particular, Jeff Botterill, whom I knew straight away was the person I wanted by my side during the whole process. Jeff is extremely calm and reassuring with a knowledge base that is immediately evident. It also helped to learn that once upon a time he had been in my shoes and could recognise the anguish and anxiety I was feeling.
Jeff Botterill is simply a genius and I’m utterly convinced my life would not be so wonderful now if it were not for him. From the moment he agreed to assist me, I knew I was in great hands and a lot of the tension which inevitably builds up seemed to dissipate there and then. Once we got started, Jeff was great at stripping the emotion away and helping you to focus on what is important and ignoring what is irrelevant, as it is very easy to get caught up in the bitterness and unjust nature of everything. He keeps you thinking straight.
He is also a master at drawing up any court documents that will be required along the way and is exceptional at articulating every point of your defence. I was truly blown away when I saw my initial position statement – It summed up perfectly in 10 or 12 sentences what I had been frustratingly screaming about for years. A work of art.
Long story short, my ex-partner dropped her application completely after the first hearing and I was able to amend the existing contact order we had in place to provide for more time with my daughter at weekends and school holidays. The result is my relationship with my daughter is as good now as it’s ever been and I feel that I have been treated fairly by the courts. This is all thanks to Jeff.
I would recommend Jeff in an instant. He really is a godsend.
Previous experience had also taught me that attending court is an overwhelming and daunting experience so I was conscious that I needed some form of guidance to see me through to the end. Which is when I found Family Law Decisions and in particular, Jeff Botterill, whom I knew straight away was the person I wanted by my side during the whole process. Jeff is extremely calm and reassuring with a knowledge base that is immediately evident. It also helped to learn that once upon a time he had been in my shoes and could recognise the anguish and anxiety I was feeling.
Jeff Botterill is simply a genius and I’m utterly convinced my life would not be so wonderful now if it were not for him. From the moment he agreed to assist me, I knew I was in great hands and a lot of the tension which inevitably builds up seemed to dissipate there and then. Once we got started, Jeff was great at stripping the emotion away and helping you to focus on what is important and ignoring what is irrelevant, as it is very easy to get caught up in the bitterness and unjust nature of everything. He keeps you thinking straight.
He is also a master at drawing up any court documents that will be required along the way and is exceptional at articulating every point of your defence. I was truly blown away when I saw my initial position statement – It summed up perfectly in 10 or 12 sentences what I had been frustratingly screaming about for years. A work of art.
Long story short, my ex-partner dropped her application completely after the first hearing and I was able to amend the existing contact order we had in place to provide for more time with my daughter at weekends and school holidays. The result is my relationship with my daughter is as good now as it’s ever been and I feel that I have been treated fairly by the courts. This is all thanks to Jeff.
I would recommend Jeff in an instant. He really is a godsend.
I came to meet Jeff for a urgent matter of leave to remove abroad. On this kind of complex cases I believe emotions make it really hard to focus and see the right angles of approach. Jeff has been able to break things down for me and bring the focus on the children's welfare. His knowledge of the law and experience in court have been crucial on my case. In a really short time he has been able to understand the problem and propose solutions.
Despite the fact I wasn't able to get a barrister, Jeff and his associates have been able to bring my case forward, and defend my position in a way a barrister probably wouldn't have, and for a very affordable cost.
I recommend Jeff to anyone facing legal family issues and wish to have tailor made defence.
Despite the fact I wasn't able to get a barrister, Jeff and his associates have been able to bring my case forward, and defend my position in a way a barrister probably wouldn't have, and for a very affordable cost.
I recommend Jeff to anyone facing legal family issues and wish to have tailor made defence.
Without Jeff would I be seeing my daughter?
Probably not.
I see my daughter now regularly, go on holidays with her, she plays with her baby sister, sees her grandparents and I am seeing her grow up.
Jeff tells you it as it and not just what you want to hear, unlike so many solicitors I encountered.
He has many helpful tips on how to deal with the whole situation and provides thorough support
I would highly recommend using his services.
Probably not.
I see my daughter now regularly, go on holidays with her, she plays with her baby sister, sees her grandparents and I am seeing her grow up.
Jeff tells you it as it and not just what you want to hear, unlike so many solicitors I encountered.
He has many helpful tips on how to deal with the whole situation and provides thorough support
I would highly recommend using his services.
I contacted Jeff and explained my situation with the sudden notification of the lodging of an Application for Leave To Remove in the middle of child arrangement proceedings. He did listen and was calm which gave me comfort. As he questioned me about my case I felt Jeff knew what he was talking about. We agreed for me to send him all the files and evidence and my rough draft and he gave me a date for him to provide me a comprehensive statement in response to the LTR. This was about 2 weeks before my deadline so gave me plenty of time to check and learn more. Indeed, Jeff's statement was effective. He was there responding to questions no doubt about it! I have experienced a solicitor that I have had to chase up for updates. I am very happy with Jeff's service – You get an answer by email or on the phone definitely.
I highly recommend Jeff Botterill to anyone involved in family court matters. His ultra-sharp advice proved to be very helpful. I was particularly amazed how good he was at multi-tasking whilst I was cross-examining: he took accurate notes, prompted new questions and drafted submissions, all at the same time and equally well. Representing myself for the first time at a full-day hearing was emotionally difficult, but his help was reassuring and calming. Thank you Jeff!
Hi Jeff,
On behalf of myself and my family We would like to thank you for all of your assistance yesterday. Your guidance throughout, and the presentation of the documents was first class. Restoring contact with ******* was the best Xmas present we could have hoped for.
We had a get together last night but at the weekend we can have an even better one with our *******.
Thanks again.
On behalf of myself and my family We would like to thank you for all of your assistance yesterday. Your guidance throughout, and the presentation of the documents was first class. Restoring contact with ******* was the best Xmas present we could have hoped for.
We had a get together last night but at the weekend we can have an even better one with our *******.
Thanks again.
The service Jeff provided me in the very difficult situation, was second to none. I may have been paying for a service but I feel indebted to Jeff. – A very positive result for both of my kids.
With Jeff Botterill's guidance, I was able to get my application successfully heard at the Central Family court and secure an order to see my 14-year-old daughter.
My application had previously been dismissed and I was losing hope and lacking the motivation to make progress. Jeff's direct and no-nonsense approach was invaluable throughout very complex and difficult proceedings. Even though we did not always agree he was able to see the best way forward and even gain the respect of the Judge. He was always calm, reliable, professional and reassuring when I needed it. I am now seeing my daughter regularly and am grateful to benefit from his experience.
Thanks,
My application had previously been dismissed and I was losing hope and lacking the motivation to make progress. Jeff's direct and no-nonsense approach was invaluable throughout very complex and difficult proceedings. Even though we did not always agree he was able to see the best way forward and even gain the respect of the Judge. He was always calm, reliable, professional and reassuring when I needed it. I am now seeing my daughter regularly and am grateful to benefit from his experience.
Thanks,
Jeff, Absolutely chuffed see below post I’ve made on Facebook Forum *****************
Thanks again Jeff to tell my mom of the outcome was the best news I’ve given her for a while. I owe part of that to you!!! Thanks:
"Well just back from my Fact-Finding hearing where I had DV, with Ex and Kids, Social Services and CaFcass reports unhelpful and didn’t want to make a decision. My Mckenzie friend coached me superbly and we went into court. 3 lady magistrates and the ex had Barrister. From the opening statement from the Barrister more accusations and request for an adjournment. To my relief and contrary to what people stated the magistrates unpicked her motives. Directed her counsel to agree on a position for contact by midday. The counsel started with supervised contact for a day to more than one day supervised, my Mckenzie friend played hardball we walked out the court with unsupervised for 2 days first month, 4 days next month then Alternative weekends moving forward. This is something reading posts I didn’t expect and I’m so chuffed. I have my boys back in my life and I choked when the magistrates emphasised the impact on kids and the legal implication if the order wasn’t upheld. So for all you fathers out there follow your heart do your research and more importantly don’t give up. I’m planning some fun times for my boys with the money I don’t have to spend fighting bitter accusations. Thanks to all and don’t go into court thinking they are against you !!!"
Thanks again Jeff to tell my mom of the outcome was the best news I’ve given her for a while. I owe part of that to you!!! Thanks:
"Well just back from my Fact-Finding hearing where I had DV, with Ex and Kids, Social Services and CaFcass reports unhelpful and didn’t want to make a decision. My Mckenzie friend coached me superbly and we went into court. 3 lady magistrates and the ex had Barrister. From the opening statement from the Barrister more accusations and request for an adjournment. To my relief and contrary to what people stated the magistrates unpicked her motives. Directed her counsel to agree on a position for contact by midday. The counsel started with supervised contact for a day to more than one day supervised, my Mckenzie friend played hardball we walked out the court with unsupervised for 2 days first month, 4 days next month then Alternative weekends moving forward. This is something reading posts I didn’t expect and I’m so chuffed. I have my boys back in my life and I choked when the magistrates emphasised the impact on kids and the legal implication if the order wasn’t upheld. So for all you fathers out there follow your heart do your research and more importantly don’t give up. I’m planning some fun times for my boys with the money I don’t have to spend fighting bitter accusations. Thanks to all and don’t go into court thinking they are against you !!!"
Dear Jeff, Just a quick few lines to thank you again for your support yesterday and the fantastic work you did on our Skeleton Argument. I thought it was exceptional myself but obviously I don’t have legal training. I don’t think you could get a higher accolade than Lord Justice Wood saying that it was a “beautifully crafted" document twice during the hearing.
Hi Jeff, I would like to thank you for your assistance in my case. At least 13 hearings as a LIP 'prior' to seeking your help, and I now have all the contact I wanted! Using a McKenzie friend should be advertised more aggressively as many fathers/children are missing out without it.
You stopped me deviating and gave me the focus and reassurance I needed. Your help with the position statement was invaluable and was definitely a key factor in helping me gain the contact I wanted.
You stopped me deviating and gave me the focus and reassurance I needed. Your help with the position statement was invaluable and was definitely a key factor in helping me gain the contact I wanted.
Hi Jeff, Thank you so much for today I couldn't have got where I did today if you didn't support me.
The first thing me and my husband said when we got in the car.
The first thing me and my husband said when we got in the car.
Dear Jeff. Thank you for writing such a good position statement. I was really pleased at how thorough you were in highlighting all the important points that needed to be brought to the court's attention.
Hi Jeff, I just wanted to take the opportunity to thank you for your professionalism and support leading up to and at the final hearing on Wednesday. It was much appreciated.
Hello Jeff, I have read the witness statement and took on board what you advised.
There are a couple of amendments to make, rest is perfect and to the point. You have really nailed it Jeff by making it flow so well and to the point.
I will get it to court and Cafcass by email latest tomorrow afternoon and I will also send it by post recorded delivery. I advised the other party's solicitors that I will only be ready to exchange on Wednesday, I will do that then.
Thank you so much for you immense help and for being there with me all the way.
There are a couple of amendments to make, rest is perfect and to the point. You have really nailed it Jeff by making it flow so well and to the point.
I will get it to court and Cafcass by email latest tomorrow afternoon and I will also send it by post recorded delivery. I advised the other party's solicitors that I will only be ready to exchange on Wednesday, I will do that then.
Thank you so much for you immense help and for being there with me all the way.
Jeff Botterill is a highly experienced and technically skilled McKenzie Friend with experience at all levels of court, including appeal. Jeff's knowledge of case law and court procedure is impressive. Such knowledge is essential in more complex cases, as is an ability to help construct effective, fact based and child centered arguments. In technical areas of law such as leave to remove, Jeff's name readily comes to mind as someone I can recommend with confidence. I am often asked if I can recommend a McKenzie Friend to assist a parent or grandparent in court, and Jeff Botterill is someone whose name I have no hesitation in putting forward.
Hi Jeff, Been an emotional few days for me since the hearing.
Thank you for the notes but most of all thank you for all of your support and knowledge. I relied on you greatly and I couldn’t of done it without your support.
Thanks Again
Thank you for the notes but most of all thank you for all of your support and knowledge. I relied on you greatly and I couldn’t of done it without your support.
Thanks Again
