Our services include:

Child Custody: How We Can Help You

Child custody cases are often some of the most emotionally taxing legal struggles. But you don’t have to handle it alone. We’re experts in mediation and court representation, and we can help you find a solution that works for everyone. Let us guide you through the complexity of child custody disputes. If an agreement cannot be reached, we can help to negotiate arrangements and, if necessary, we can prepare your case and provide representation at court.

Parental Responsibility

As a parent, it’s essential to know your legal rights. By obtaining Parental Responsibility (PR), you can ensure your role as a caregiver is protected. However, some fathers may need to take action to obtain PR. We’re here to provide expert advice on securing your parental rights and gaining PR.

Change of Surname

A change of name which will require permission from those who have parental responsibility. An application for a Specific Issue Order can be made where parents cannot agree whether a child’s name should be changed.  If a change of name is agreed our specialist lawyers can draw up a Change of Name Deed for a fixed fee.

Child Abduction

When a child is removed from one of the parents without permission or a child is not returned at a pre-arranged time, it is important to act quickly to reinstate the child’s normal or pre-agreed routine.

Rights for Unmarried Couples

There is often the misconception that cohabiting couples hold the same legal rights as married couples. However, this is not the case and therefore the term ‘common law’ husband or wife holds no standing in law. For couples who choose not to marry but rather live together in a long-term relationship, it is crucial that they understand their legal standing should they separate. They may wish to take steps to ensure they are both protected should a separation occur in the future. Areas of consideration for couples living together are finances, property and children, and what would happen with each should they choose to separate. The team at Poole Alcock Family have vast experience in supporting clients who wish to seek to protect their assets and outline specific terms for living with a partner. We work with both parties to outline an amicable and fair solution should the relationship break down.

Legal Aid & Domestic Violence, and Legal support for domestic abuse victims

Sadly, domestic abuse can be a feature in many relationships, and is something that many victims require legal support with in order to understand their options and be able to safely move on with their lives. The definition of domestic abuse includes, but is not limited to, physical, verbal, sexual, financial, emotional and psychological harm, as well as controlling or coercive behaviours, all of which can be perpetrated against individuals from all backgrounds and circumstances. If you have been a victim of domestic abuse, you may be eligible to apply for public funding in order to obtain an injunction against the perpetrator. In emergency situations, we can act quickly to apply for funding and get your case before the courts as soon as possible. We guide clients through the various legal options available to them. Each case is unique and therefore we approach each with a high level of sensitivity to ensure that our clients are able to find a solution to their current domestic situation. We also work closely with domestic abuse support services to assist survivors of domestic abuse. Read more about Legal Aid and Domestic Violence services here.