Using unbundled legal services in family law is often an excellent way to afford legal advice from qualified professional when funds are tight.
It works especially well in straightforward financial matters and children act matters.
How does it work?
The difference between unbundled and full representation is that you, the client does a lot of the work yourself. However, it is guided in the background by your solicitor.
You get your advice in defined meetings, usually face to face, rather than phoning up or sending an email. (this really stops you using your solicitor as a counsellor). The meetings are pre-booked so you are ready for them.
You do all the follow up work (like filing the form, sending the letter, gathering the information), but your solicitor has already helped you decide what goes in the letter, or told you what you need, or how many copies have to be sent. This cuts down on a third of your solicitor’s work and therefore your cost.
You pay as you go along, not in advance of the work that is going to be done – and buying exactly what you need, means you don’t pay more than you have to.
Because meetings happen in real time. You and your solicitor can iron out any misunderstandings and questions are answered on the spot, so you are super clear about what is going on. Communication is far more efficient.
You can combine it with representation at court, because there is a court rule that says your lawyer is allowed to go to court for you, but without fully representing you (Practice Direction 26A 1.3 if you really want to know).
The hourly rate still applies, but you are much more focussed in the meeting as you realise it is costing you money. You become empowered to understand your own case.
After each meeting, you will have a list of things to do. As you are your only client, we bet you get right on it, straightway. No delays means your case progresses faster.
Family First Solicitors are the market leaders in unbundled services for family matters. If you would like to know more, contact us now to find out where you stand. Our first meeting is £120 and takes as long as it takes.
