The start of a new year is often a time for reflection, fresh starts, and planning ahead. For families experiencing separation or divorce, it can also be the ideal moment to review existing arrangements and ensure they reflect current circumstances. At Oliver & Co Solicitors, our Family Department provides expert guidance to help families navigate changes in a constructive and legally sound way.
Reviewing Parenting Plans
Changes in family circumstances, such as children starting a new school, a parent relocating, or shifts in work schedules, can mean that existing parenting plans no longer work. Reviewing these arrangements ensures that both parents understand their responsibilities and supports the child’s wellbeing. Our team can help facilitate updates to parenting plans, ensuring they are fair, practical, and legally enforceable or simply encourage parents to begin the dialogue through direct conversations or with the assistance of a mediator.
Financial Arrangements
The new year is also a good time to review living together agreements and pre- and post-nuptial settlements, or to begin conversations surrounding financial arrangements, including child maintenance, spousal support, and division of assets. Situations change, and agreements made previously may no longer be appropriate. Our solicitors provide advice tailored to your circumstances, helping you understand your rights and responsibilities and ensuring that financial arrangements are both fair and sustainable.
Mediation and Collaborative Solutions
Family disputes can often be stressful and emotionally charged. Mediation or collaborative family law processes offer a constructive alternative to court proceedings. These approaches allow parents to work together to reach agreements in a controlled, supportive environment, reducing conflict and fostering positive relationships. Our Family Department has extensive experience supporting clients through mediation, ensuring that children’s needs remain the priority.
Preparing for Court
While we always aim to resolve disputes amicably, sometimes court intervention is necessary. If arrangements cannot be agreed upon through mediation, our solicitors are highly experienced in representing clients in family courts. We provide clear, practical advice, guiding you through every step of the process and ensuring your case is presented effectively.
Supporting Families Beyond the Holidays
The end of one year and the start of another can be a difficult period for families experiencing separation. Our team at Oliver & Co is committed to supporting clients and providing advice not only on legal matters but also on practical considerations, such as child routines, schooling, and co-parenting strategies.
Starting the new year with updated arrangements can help reduce stress and uncertainty, ensuring children’s needs are prioritised and both parents understand their responsibilities. The Family Department at Oliver & Co Solicitors is here to provide expert advice, mediation support, and representation, helping you create arrangements that work for your family in 2026 and beyond.
We Can Help
If you are looking to update your parenting arrangements, review living together, pre- and post-nuptial settlements or consider entering into a financial deed of agreement, or explore mediation options, the Family Department at Oliver & Co Solicitors is here to support you. Our team provides clear, practical advice and compassionate guidance every step of the way, ensuring your family’s needs are prioritised. You can get in touch by calling us on 01244 312306, emailing us at law@oliverandco.co.uk or you can complete the Contact Form on our website and we will get in touch with you as soon as possible. Let us help you start the new year with confidence and clarity.
