Creating a Parenting Plan - Put your children first

Going through a marital breakdown is a stressful and emotional period for all the family, and sometimes it can be difficult to focus on the emotional needs of your children when you are feeling in such a turmoil yourself. It is, however, really important to listen to your children and ask them how they feel and what is worrying them as their feelings could be different to yours, and how you respond can significantly affect their wellbeing.

You don't have to go to Court to resolve marital disputes

My ex-partner and I disagree over arrangements for our children - Do we have to go to Court?

No, a court application is only a last resort if you can’t reach agreement by another method. First you should try discussing things directly with your ex but if this doesn’t work, a mediator may be able to help. A mediator is a neutral third party who can help you both understand your differences and reach a compromise.

Family Dispute Resolution Week 2015

#childrenfirst

Resolution’s Family Dispute Resolution Week campaign aims to raise awareness of the importance of putting children first during divorce and separation.

According to a National poll conducted by Resolution among 500 children this year, around eight out of ten children and young people with experience of parental separation or divorce would prefer their parents to split up if they are unhappy, rather than stay together.

Find Free Relationship Advice

Separation and divorce can be a painful and stressful experience for all involved; the two of you as well as your children and other close family members, but there are many organisations, local and national, who offer free relationship advice and counselling during this difficult period in your life.

Mediation: a better way to separate

Wondering where to start with sorting out matters after your separation? Mediation offers a safe and private forum for separating couples to discuss how to manage arrangements for their children and finances.

New Year, New Start – What to consider when considering separation

For many, the New Year marks the beginning of a new chapter in life. For some this is a commitment to exercise more, eat healthier or learn a new hobby. For other however, this is the time when they finally make the difficult decision to separate.

Staying Positive During Your Divorce

Staying positive during your divorce can be challenge when such a wide range of emotions and feelings are often being experienced during this difficult time.

We all deal with situations in different ways, and whilst some may be able to cope and adapt to single life fairly well, others may be left feeling angry, resentful, confused, anxious, depressed and even fearful of what the future holds for them and their children without their spouse for support.

Virtual Mediation for Families

With the new restrictions in place, separated and separating families are looking to find alternative methods of resolving disputes between them either in relation to children or divorce and finances.

In response to this need, Watson Thomas Solicitors now offer a virtual form of mediation to assist parties who wish to resolve issues which arise between them during the period of “lockdown” relating to the Coronavirus.

What is mediation and what can be discussed at mediation?

Mediation is one of the alternative forums which can be used to try and agree various matters outside of Court. Mediation is encouraged by the Court and indeed some family applications require Mediation to be considered prior to an application being made to Court.

What is the Role of a Family Mediator?

A family mediator is an impartial third party who helps married & unmarried couples, parents, grandparents, step-parents and young people to discuss their issues openly and make informed decisions on how they are going to resolve and/or manage these issues going forward.