Helping hands, BHP family law experts

24th Feb 2011

A team of legal specialists has been strengthened as it seeks to support North East families facing conflict or separation.

Family and matrimonial law solicitors at BHP Law have been awarded specialist qualifications to work with couples and, in particular, victims of domestic violence.

Jane Fiddes, Andrea Hewitson and Margot Moffitt are among an elite group of lawyers specially trained and accredited to handle divorce and separation, disputes over children, finances, care proceedings and co-habitation issues, governed by the official body Resolution.

Andrea, a Partner in the firm and a member of the Law Society Family Panel, has added domestic violence to her existing areas of expertise in financial provision and children. She is also a qualified collaborative lawyer, supporting separating couples to reach a fair and lasting resolution without involving court through the alternative method of face to face meetings with their own and their ex partner’s lawyer.

Jane, who has developed expertise in protecting battered wives, is also accredited by Resolution to act in the areas of domestic violence and finance, adding to her experience in non-molestation and occupation proceedings.

Resolution accredited lawyers follow a code of practice to reduce the impact of the break-up both financially and emotionally.

Margot, has extensive experience in all aspects of public children law, including national and international adoptions. Margot, an accredited family mediator, added: “With Andrea and Jane adding further accreditation to their already considerable experience, our team is now highly qualified to support families across the region.

“With money, property and, in particular, the welfare of children at stake, people do need to seek professional legal advice when facing problems within their family. All our team is qualified to handle such crises with great care, in a non-confrontational manner, with sensitivity and compassion.”

For more information on family law issues contact BHP Law on 0191-221 0898.