CONTACT US
Paul Hannah Solicitors
PARTICK OFFICE
478 Dumbarton Road
Glasgow G11 6SQ
Email: pa@paulhannah.org
SPRINGBURN OFFICE
261 Springburn Way
Glasgow G21 1DX
Tel: 0141 558 7433
Email: sp@paulhannah.org
Family Law
The term Family Law covers a wide range of issues including those relating to children, separation, aliment, division of property and divorce. Our experienced team of Solicitors provides an approachable and friendly service relating to all areas of Family Law..
Separation can be a difficult and stressful time for any couple or family, and the consequences have to be handled sensitively. The approach taken in each case must be tailored to meet the needs of an individual or family. Our Solicitors are highly trained and experienced at listening to your problems in this area, and providing help, support and straightforward advice as required.
Parental Rights and Contact Often the most important issue arising in separation is the question of the appropriate arrangements for the care and upbringing of your child or children. Whether you are a parent seeking contact, or a parent who has concerns as to the level of contact which takes place, we can provide you with sensitive and confidential support and representation. We can also be instructed by any child over the age of 12 who wishes to be represented in such cases. We can direct you on the type of action which may be required in the particular circumstances of your case. Where appropriate we can make an application for funding to cover your costs to the Scottish Legal Aid Board.
When you separate from partner or spouse there can also be financial consequences. We will represent you in negotiations regarding division or sale of property, or transfer of property from one partner to the other; and on issues relating to aliment and Pension Sharing. Where appropriate we can refer you for mediation, and we have considerable experience and expertise in negotiating and concluding Minutes of Agreement between separating partners.
Children’s Referrals
The Children’s Hearings System is the care and justice system for children and young people in Scotland. It is a unique system headed up by the Children’s Reporter. The system deals with children who are referred to the Reporter because concerns have been raised about an aspect of their lives. It could be that the child has committed a crime, has been failing to attend school or that the child is suspected of being neglected or abused in some way.
When a referral is made to the Children’s Reporter, a Children’s Hearing may be arranged. The hearing is conducted by three panel members, who are specially trained members of the public. If there is dispute about the circumstances of the case then the matter may be referred to the Sheriff Court where evidence can be led to establish what the problems are.
Being involved in the Children’s Hearing system can be difficult and emotional. It is very important to get proper legal advice at each step of the process. We are there to guide and advise our clients at every stage. Each of our solicitors is experienced and knowledgeable in this area of the law and we undertake to advise our clients in a sympathetic, honest and non-judgemental way.
Children’s Hearings
If you have been notified of a Children’s Hearing involving your children in your care, then please contact us and arrange to speak to one of our Solicitors for advice. You are entitled to bring a representative with you to the Children’s Hearing and to have a Solicitor accompany you on the day. We will provide you with advice and guidance to make the process as easy as possible for you.
Appeals
If you are unhappy with the decision made by a Children’s Hearing then it may be possible to lodge an Appeal at the Sheriff Court. Such Appeals must be lodged within 21 days of the Hearing so it is important that you contact us as soon as possible to get the process underway. You may qualify for Legal Aid in order to Appeal and we will guide you through that process as well as representing you at Court.
Referrals
If the case is referred to the Sheriff Court then you will receive notification of a Hearing, called a Proof. It is important that you contact us as soon as possible in order that we can begin preparing your case. If you qualify for Legal Aid then we will assist you with the application process. We will interview the witnesses and investigate the circumstances of the case on your behalf. We will work with the Children’s Reporter to try to resolve your case. If that is not possible we will represent you at the Proof in a professional manner aimed at achieving the best possible outcome.
Adoption
Adoption proceedings can be very emotional and complex. We have significant experience of defending adoption cases on behalf of natural parents and we will guide you through the process in a sensitive and straightforward way. We can also assist in cases where a step-parent or partner wishes to adopt their partner’s child.
Paul Hannah Solicitors:
478 Dumbarton Road, Glasgow G11 6SQ tel: 0141 483 8888 email pa@paulhannah.org
261 Springburn Way, Glasgow G21 1DX tel: 0141 558 7433 email sp@paulhannah.org
