Life can be unpredictable, often throwing us into situations we never saw coming. In those moments, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or lost, but remember - you don’t have to face it alone. Support is within reach, even in the darkest of times. Take Blackadders, a trusted Scottish law firm that spans the entire country. With their Family Law and Private Client teams by your side, you’ll find guidance through life’s toughest moments, whether you're preparing for the future or navigating overwhelming challenges.
Shona Smith, a partner in the Edinburgh Family Law team, shares how her team can help women navigate the emotional and financial barriers that often prevent them from reaching out for legal support during relationship breakdowns.
“We know that our expertise can help clients through tough times, but we also understand how daunting it can be for them to take that first step,” Shona explains. “Many clients hesitate due to feelings of guilt or fear of judgment, sometimes even hiding their true situation from loved ones. But that first confidential conversation with a lawyer can help clear the fog and provide informed choices for moving forward.”
Shona reassures potential clients that judgment has no place in her work. She knows every family is unique, and no one has the ‘perfect’ family. “I’m here to listen, not judge,” she says, “and my focus is on helping clients find the best way forward for them.”
Another concern for clients is the fear that contacting a lawyer might lead to more conflict or a loss of control of how the situation is handled. Shona addresses this by explaining that, while a limited number of cases do require a more adversarial approach, the majority of clients do not want to fight and simply want to move on peacefully, especially when children are involved. “The last thing anyone wants is for their estranged partner, and in many cases the parent of their children, to be vilified,” says Shona. “Blackadders offers a range of approaches, from mediation to negotiated settlements, with the client always remaining in control. We’re there to listen to you and advise on which approach may suit circumstances best.”
Family and friends, while well-meaning, can sometimes offer advice that doesn’t fit a person’s unique situation. Given that no two situations are identical, other opinions can often leave the recipient feeling like there is little point in seeking professional advice. Shona highlights that one of the biggest benefits of consulting a lawyer is getting accurate information that’s tailored to your circumstances.
For victims of domestic abuse, seeking help can be even more challenging. These clients may struggle with low self-esteem, self-blame or the very real fear of the physical, financial or emotional consequences of their ‘betrayal’. These barriers can stop someone seeking support as they are simply unable to contact a lawyer. Domestic abuse comes in many forms, including physical violence, coercive control, harassment, and stalking. Shona is acutely aware of all these obstacles and emphasises the importance of the lawyer listening and offering compassionate support - both legally and emotionally.
The final major concern is financial. Many clients worry about legal fees, especially when their family finances are already stretched. It can be stressful and terrifying in equal measures. When a couple separate, no matter how their affairs are divided, two homes rather than one now have to be funded. Blackadders, however, understand these financial pressures, which is why their first family law meeting is offered at a fixed fee, so there are no hidden surprises. You'll leave with clear advice on your situation, the legal framework, and how to move forward, with all costs laid out upfront. In partnership with egg, Blackadders are offering a first initial consultation with the Family Law team for a reduced fixed fee of £100.
egg partners Blackadders LLP are a leading Scottish law firm with offices in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee and Aberdeen. Find more information here. Or email enquiries to [email protected]. To stay up to date with the latest egg news, sign up to our newsletter. You can also join our egg Facebook page here.
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