Family life can be complicated at the best of times and the Covid-19 pandemic has made it more so. But relationship problems and issues affecting children can still be resolved, thanks to technology
One of the many painful effects of the Covid-19 pandemic is that it has created or exacerbated problems for many people’s relationships and families in areas such as:
- cohabitation breakdown, separation and divorce
- reaching a financial settlement when the value of assets or a business may be uncertain
- contact arrangements for children, especially if one parent uses lockdown as an excuse to limit access
- domestic violence
- child welfare issues.
We know that people are worried about how to handle these issues when Covid-19 is limiting what they can do and where they can go. But the good news is, we can still help you resolve them.
"...technology has replaced face-to-face meetings and court hearings but the support and outcomes available to you can be the same."
Online solutions
In most cases, technology has replaced face-to-face meetings and court hearings but the support and outcomes available to you can be the same.
We’re advising clients by video link and phone, and we have the IT infrastructure in place to ensure the security and confidentiality of all meetings and data.
Courts have moved online too
Technology and social distancing have also transformed court hearings, with most taking place using written submissions followed by telephone or video hearings.
For example, Scotland’s Court of Session is using Cisco Webex video conferencing for some proofs (a hearing where witnesses are called). Witnesses are provided with a web link to join the hearing and must follow rules such as not having other people in the room.
Don’t worry about the detail
There’s no need for clients to worry about the procedural details around these new-style hearings. We’ll guide you through anything you need to know and do and can help find solutions if you have problems accessing the right technology.
There’s also an upside. The new procedures should reduce the time and stress involved in waiting around in courts and could lead to improvements in the way family law is conducted in future. If you’re currently involved in a difficult family law situation, future improvements may not be huge consolation. The important thing to remember is that we’re available to help, Covid or no Covid.
