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Original poster

That phone call that changed my life

153 replies

Toilichte · 17/06/2025 11:04

Inspired by another thread on here. 3 years ago I was in a deeply unhappy relationship, I posted on here a lot at the time. Finally one day I was brave enough to fill in an online form on a solicitor website that Google threw up. I hadn’t done any research into the firm, didn’t know what I was doing, just knew I was unhappy, venting to mumsnet and things needed to change.

I had a conversation with a solicitor, it hadn’t been my plan that morning. He called me after I put in the form. He was so kind, and on it. He made the process seem so clear. I was worried about ownership of my dog- he didn’t think that was silly or the wrong thing to focus on. He just gave me excellent advice.

I wasn’t married, and so actually the process was quite simple. I never engaged his services. I just had that conversation which let me know the lay of the land and that was it.

I don’t think he knows that he changed my life, and I will be forever grateful. Probably one of a million conversations he’s had on the same vein, but for me that conversation means the world.

OP posts:
Original poster
Toilichte · 17/06/2025 12:09

I didn’t ever let them know. I am now thinking I should write an email of thanks this afternoon.

OP posts:
Bunniesnotbullies · 17/06/2025 11:12

That's so good to hear @Toilichte . Have you ever contacted him to let him know? There's a programme on Radio 4 on a Saturday morning where they have a slot where people thank a stranger (I think) who has helped them.

I had a similar phone call in a similar vein. When my husband left I phoned Women's Aid just to ask for recommendations for solicitors who would 'be on the woman's side', not realising I was in need of their support too. I hadn't realised the load I was carrying until I wasn't and until it was pointed out to me, gently ❤

ajandjjmum · 17/06/2025 11:08

Toilichte · 17/06/2025 11:04

Inspired by another thread on here. 3 years ago I was in a deeply unhappy relationship, I posted on here a lot at the time. Finally one day I was brave enough to fill in an online form on a solicitor website that Google threw up. I hadn’t done any research into the firm, didn’t know what I was doing, just knew I was unhappy, venting to mumsnet and things needed to change.

I had a conversation with a solicitor, it hadn’t been my plan that morning. He called me after I put in the form. He was so kind, and on it. He made the process seem so clear. I was worried about ownership of my dog- he didn’t think that was silly or the wrong thing to focus on. He just gave me excellent advice.

I wasn’t married, and so actually the process was quite simple. I never engaged his services. I just had that conversation which let me know the lay of the land and that was it.

I don’t think he knows that he changed my life, and I will be forever grateful. Probably one of a million conversations he’s had on the same vein, but for me that conversation means the world.

You should let him know. I did similar 20 + years after someone had been particularly diligent whist doing their job, and saved me so much heartache. She was just about to retire and was so pleased that I'd let her know the impact she had on my life.