Contact Goodwins

Complete this form and one of our expert team will be in touch to discuss how we can help

Any details or information provided will at all times remain strictly confidential.

If you can't see your preferred date, you will be able to provide further details on the next step.

Additional date and time

Step 1 of 2

Step 2 of 2

Home » Advice Centre » What is the Difference Between a Family Lawyer and a Family Solicitor?

What is the Difference Between a Family Lawyer and a Family Solicitor?

Posted on: 29 October 2020 by Goodwins Family Law Solicitors

Many people will require legal advice or representation at some point in their lives – and for many that may be in the remit of family law. But what is the difference between a solicitor and a lawyer working in family law? Is there any difference at all? 

In this article, we explore this question to ensure complete clarity on the subject. 

iStock

What is a family lawyer? 

Here in the UK, a family lawyer is more of an umbrella term that describes anyone that is qualified and licensed to give legal advice in matters pertaining to family law or to act on behalf of their clients in legal matters. Lawyers, therefore, refer to both solicitors and barristers – solicitors give legal advice throughout an entire case on behalf of a client, while barristers are usually more involved in undertaking advocacy work in court.

What is a family solicitor? 

Under UK definitions, a family solicitor is a type of lawyer and refers to a legal professional or adviser who represents individuals, families or entire organisations in the remit of family law. The client will interact with a solicitor, describing the situation and the solicitor will then give legal advice on the best course of action. 

Family law cases will vary and may cover one or more subjects in a single case: divorce law, child custody, domestic violence, separation agreements, cohabitation agreements, prenuptial agreements, child maintenance, and family or legal disputes. 

What does a family solicitor do? 

A family solicitor will often support a client throughout the entire case. Their duties will depend entirely on the nature and complexity of the case, but can include: 

  • Dispensing specialist advice pertaining to family law
  • Gathering evidence
  • Writing letters and making phone calls
  • Mediating between family members 
  • Communicating with other parties to reach agreements
  • Drafting paperwork and contracts

Family solicitors can also represent their clients in court, though this work is often directed to a barrister, whose sole job is to represent and advocate for a client in court. In these cases, solicitors and barristers may work together on the case during a court proceeding, with the family law solicitor overseeing and managing the case, while the barrister attends and represents the client in court.  

If you’re searching for experienced family law solicitors in London and the South East, look no further than Goodwin’s Family Law Solicitors. With over 25 years in family law, we have the expertise to represent clients for a spectrum of issues, ranging from divorce and separation agreements to child custody matters. Please speak with our team today who will be happy to help. 

 

About Goodwins

Established for over 30 years
Family law and divorce specialists
Members of The Law Society
Excellent client satisfaction rate

Goodwins Family Law Solicitors is a registered company in England. © Goodwins Family Law Solicitors 2024. All Rights Reserved.

Adtrak Logo
Top

By clicking "Accept All Cookies", you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyse site usage, assist in our marketing efforts, and for personalised advertising.

More Information Accept All Cookies