All the family lawyers at Neves are members of Resolution, a body of 6000 family lawyers committed to the constructive resolution of family disputes. As members we follow a Code of Practice that promotes a non-confrontational approach to family problems. We encourage solutions that consider the needs of the whole family - and in particular the best interests of children. Myself and Pui are also members of the local Milton Keynes Resolution group. We meet regularly and one topic has absorbed us more recently than any other: with cuts in legal aid and an increasing cost of living, how can we continue to give people who are separating a relevant and affordable high level of service? We are worried that an increasing number of people are not getting a fair deal on separation because they are worried they can't afford to do it properly.
Along with other family lawyers in Milton Keynes, we have devised a procedure to avoid delay and unnecessary costs, whilst making sure that our clients can obtain a settlement that meets their future financial needs. This Fast Track Procedure deals with the finances of the marriage. The procedure ranges from how the financial circumstances of the parties should be disclosed, right through to how experts should be instructed and how offers should be made from one party to another. The procedure is similar to the one adopted by the Court if an application for a Financial Order was to be made by a party, but it is quicker and cheaper.
By agreeing to the Fast Track Procedure, both parties and their solicitors must commit to a timetable for exchanging information about their financial circumstances, and for negotiating a settlement. They must both agree that they will do all they can to avoid going to Court and negotiate in good faith with a view to settling matters as quickly as possible. The Procedure will often involve a round table meeting between both parties and their solicitors. If either party wishes to withdraw from the procedure and apply to court, they can do so, but the purpose of the procedure which has been endorsed by the judges at Milton Keynes County Court, is to avoid the delays that are inherent in court proceedings and keep legal costs as low as possible.
We are also one of half a dozen firms in Milton Keynes that have set up a working group to look at how we can help those people who are on a low income but will not be able to get legal aid if the government's proposed cuts come into force later on this year. We are planning to start "safety net" advice sessions, and to hold a "divorce fair" in partnership with Relate and other organisations and charities, giving information and advice to separating couples. For more information, contact Beth Woodward or Pui Au-Yeung.
