Estranged parents seeking help in the lockdown can access family barristers remotely

SEPARATING/divorcing parents making arrangements about their children during the lockdown can get direct access to barristers to represent them in and outside court thanks to a unique remote legal service (June 2020).

Westcountry-based Children in the Middle, which is the only practice solely specialising in this work nationally, offers access via online video and voice calls to family barristers who can help.

Elizabeth McCallum, who is a family barrister and co-founder of Children in the Middle, along with fellow Exeter barrister Sarah Evans, explains: “We offer parents, wherever they live in England and Wales, online, direct access to barristers to advise and represent them when making arrangements for the care of their children following divorce or separation.

“This access is available by all forms of modern communication, which is especially relevant with the current social distancing measures that are understandably in place. Courts are operating and our remote approach falls in line with theirs, as hearings tend to be held by telephone at the moment, but we know they are looking to use more video conferencing in the not too distant future too.

“Most of our work is done remotely, which means geography is not a barrier to us or the parents that we help and that 21st century technology is vital for what we do. It also means that we keep our overheads down, a benefit we can pass on to those that need us, so we offer affordable, expert legal advice to parents about their children.”

In the past a solicitor was required to instruct a barrister, but due to rule changes under the Public Access Scheme, members of the public are now able to instruct barristers direct. 

Sarah, who has been a family law specialist for more than 30 years, says: “As experts in making child arrangements following divorce and separation, we’re on hand to advise both parents and to work towards a sensible resolution. No matter how challenging your circumstances, we can guide you through making care arrangements that work for you and your children. We offer creative, practical solutions to even the most difficult problems, so you and your children can move forward in a positive way.

“The particular needs of your family and the wellbeing of your child are our top priorities. Wherever possible, we will help a parent reach a voluntary agreement with the other parent over the arrangements for their child.

“But, if court action is required, as barristers, we can provide the experienced representation a parent needs for every stage of the proceedings, from initial advice, drafting an application to the court, representation at hearings and preparation of witness statements and evidence. 

“However, as a parent you may just need one virtual meeting with us, so we can give you advice and guidance on the best way forward for you and your child.

Most of our work is done remotely, which means geography is not a barrier. It also means that we keep our overheads down, a benefit we can pass on to the client. What we offer is affordable, expert legal advice about your children.

“By having direct access to us, you can save money by managing your own case through handling the admin and the paperwork, while still benefitting from specialist legal advice from a barrister, who is a children’s law expert.” 

Elizabeth has practiced in this area of law for more than 14 years. She initially qualified as a barrister, then transferred to become a family solicitor. More recently, she has resumed her career as a barrister. 

Sarah has a wealth of experience having spent time as a family lawyer working in the USA, Scotland and London before joining Magdalen Chambers in Exeter as a barrister.

As well as assisting with court cases, Children in the Middle can offer assistance with appointments and preparing court documents to parents living anywhere in England and Wales.

“We have more than 45 years’ combined experience in the children law field and we aim to offer creative, practical solutions in even the most difficult situations.”

For further details, please visit www.childreninthemiddle.co.uk.