Divorced or separating? Our family lawyers are continuing to support clients during the current crisis

Zoey Arscott is one of our four divorce and separation specialists based at our Margate office who are currently all continuing to assist clients during the coronavirus crisis. We are also still serving current and new clients through our Canterbury Broad Street office. 

Zoey explains, “Sadly, it’s a really challenging time for many of our clients, a number of whom are finding that the crisis is increasing the strain as they seek to bring closure to their relationships. The period of isolation is naturally adding to problems.

“Our lawyers are all currently working from home and our primary focus is on serving clients as seamlessly as possible. 

“Travel restrictions have meant that in recent days I have had to liaise with the other side in a couple of matters to adjourn court hearings. 

“I am, however, finding that I am frequently also able to make good progress with other maters. In the past week, for example, I have briefed counsel for a first hearing and prepared all of the documentation required for a dispute resolution appointment in another matter. 

“Yesterday I prepared a Scott Schedule for one of my clients. The idea of a Scott Schedule is to precisely identify the questions that the judge has to decide.

“I am also taking on new clients and two have instructed me after detailed discussions over the telephone in recent days. Talking over the phone is not ideal - I would prefer to see people in person - but we have built a good rapport and can meet when the crisis lifts. 

“Above all, I am finding that it is crucial to keep in touch with all of my clients and am regularly speaking to them via email and over the phone. Publishing all the direct dial numbers for our lawyers on our website has made talking easier and the novelty of not having to dress for the office hasn’t worn off yet!”.