Legal advice for Scotland please?

[Suchaheadache]

Recently separated from husband. He said he wanted to sort out finances and access to kids informally. I made mistake of believing him. Got letter from his solicitor asking for my solicitor to contact them. I haven't got one yet. I have spoken to a couple but informally (free 15 minute sessions) so not 'hired' one. The problem I have is the one I have been told is the best works for the same company as his one although at a different branch (different towns). Does anyone know if the 2 solicitors work for the same overall company but at different branches if this would count as a conflict of interest? Both solicitors are partners if that makes a difference.

Hi,

Scottish solicitor here - in short whilst it's not a direct "conflict of interest" they wouldn't do it, not ethical or credible for the firm.

Sorry.

Ok thanks. Thought that would be the case. Any advice on how to go about finding a good lawyer? Been asking around by don't know anyone who has been separated in my current area.

Hello,

I would have a look on the legal 500 for a start, most solicitors / advocates will have a blog about their specialities, see if any clicks with your situation.

Also, if you can travel, travel! You will find most top field solicitors in the cities at the bigger firms.

Just ensure if you're eligible for legal aid that the chosen practice supports it, I know some family law specialists don't deal in it.

Good luck!

Thanks for that. Really don't know where to start so that is a great help. Are you saying then that the bigger the firm the better? I don't qualify for legal aid unfortunately so that isn't a consideration. Does it make a difference if you use a partner or not?

Hello,

No problem at all.

Not necessarily the size of the firm, just larger firms tend to have more specialist counsel, so if your case is complicated etc they tend to have more experience.

Not saying the perfect counsel isn't right on your doorstep, just with broadening your search as the right lawyer can make all the difference.

Worth broadening * not with sorry.

And I would pick someone who can identify with your situation the most, has dealt with similar cases.

If you do go with a partner just make sure your case is a priority, as their workload tends to be that bit higher.

I know a couple in paisley/Renfrewshire area if that's anywhere near you

Thanks for the help user. Been given a name from a friend of a friend. It is a partner. But supposedly she is brilliant and has 30 years experience. Also from a bigger firm. Not local but not too far to travel either. So will give her a try. Also waiting to hear from some other friends who are asking around.
Crazycatmum - thanks for the offer but unfortunately I'm on the east coast.