Family Law Solicitors for clients in Sussex including Brighton, Uckfield and Seaford
Rix & Kay’s experienced Family Team advise on a range of issues and have a reputation for their practical and professional approach. The team are all members of Resolution, and deal with family issues by providing Mediation and Collaborative Law as well as the more traditional approaches of negotiation and court proceedings. Rix & Kay’s Family team is the only East Sussex firm recommended for family work in the prestigious Legal 500.
As a firm that provides a wide range of legal services, Rix & Kay can draw on experts among colleagues in various specialist areas. Expertise from associates includes barristers, accountants, valuers, pension specialists and counsellors.
Mediation
Rix & Kay offers a mediation service, helping couples work together on reaching agreement in a neutral environment. Our mediator is trained to help clients reach agreement on all aspects of separation, including divorce, issues over children or division of financial assets.
Collaborative Law
The collaborative family law process is a relatively new way of dealing with family disputes. The aim is to resolve family disputes without going to court. Each person appoints their own lawyer but instead of using the court process or conducting negotiations at a distance by letter or phone you meet together to work things out face to face. You will each have your own lawyer by your side throughout the entire process to advise as you go.
Dealing with finances on Divorce, Separation or Civil Partnership Dissolution
Dealing with finances on a divorce or separation is often the most complicated and difficult aspect of the breakdown of a relationship. Where possible, at Rix & Kay, we aim to resolve matters on an amicable basis by mediation, using collaborative law or solicitor lead negotiation. Where an amicable resolution is not possible, we will not hold back in using the court procedure.
Our Family Team has wide experience in dealing with situations where one or both parties have substantial business interests; where there are pensions; trusts or inheritance issues; where third parties have interests in the family assets; or where there are insolvency issues. We also handle the implementation of the terms of any financial settlement.
Cohabitation Agreements and Breakdown
There is no such thing as ‘common law husband and wife’. When cohabitees separate, there are often difficulties over jointly acquired assets.
To prevent such problems arising in the first place, Rix & Kay can prepare a Cohabitation Agreement, providing peace of mind. Having this in place will assist in resolving any problems if the relationship does break down.
Rix & Kay can still help, even without such an agreement in place. With extensive experience of dealing with these situations, we can help clients negotiate an amicable settlement or, if necessary, deal with the relevant applications to the Court.
Future Proofing
Prenuptial and Pre Civil Partnership Agreements
Unfortunately relationships do not always work out as planned. A prenuptial agreement could save a lot of unnecessary upset in the event of a separation.
Although not binding in English Law, there is a growing body of cases which have upheld such agreements. Rix & Kay can advise as to the benefits and limitations of such agreements.
Children
At Rix & Kay, we make sure that the welfare of children is paramount if their parents separate, understanding that this will be a distressing period for any children involved. We take the time to find the best method of dispute resolution for each individual case, whether that’s mediation, collaboration, negotiation or court proceedings.
We can assist in dealing with children matters without the input of the Court but, where necessary, will make applications to the Court regarding residence, contact or specific issues. Applications can also be made to resolve financial problems, whether or not you and your partner are married.
Injunctions
Rix & Kay will apply for emergency relief from the Courts in cases to prevent the intentional disposal of assets or their transfer out of the jurisdiction. We can also help you obtain an order to prevent domestic violence or harassment.
Change of Name Deeds
There may be many reasons why you wish to change your name, often post separation. Rix & Kay can prepare a simple Change of Name Deed and advise on the implications of doing so.
Free half hour advice scheme
Naturally the breakdown of a relationship is a stressful time, but it’s essential that you know where you stand legally. Rix & Kay provides half an hour’s advice without charge, in order to offer guidance in making the right decisions.
