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Before You Enquire

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PAPA’s default position is that most parents are best served by informed self representation in private family court proceedings.

 

In many cases, involving a barrister too early increases cost, and conflict without improving outcomes.

 

In some situations, however, targeted input from a family law barrister can be appropriate, particularly where there is a listed hearing, repeated litigation, or complex safeguarding issues.

 

This page is for parents who believe specific legal input may add value, not those seeking to hand their case over entirely.

 

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What This Service Is

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This service provides:

 

• A structured route to independent family law barristers

• Targeted legal input for defined issues or hearings

• A focus on clarity, proportionality, and child focused outcomes

• Access via direct access where appropriate

 

All enquiries are reviewed before any details are shared.

 

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What This Service Is Not

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This service is not:

 

• Legal aid

• Emergency or crisis representation

• A guarantee of instruction

• A complaints or advocacy service

 

Submitting an enquiry does not create a client relationship.

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Who This May Be Suitable For

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This service may be suitable if:

 

• You are a parent or legal guardian

• Your case is in England or Wales

• You have a listed or upcoming family court hearing

• Your case concerns child arrangements, enforcement, or safeguarding disputes

• You are seeking specific legal input, not ongoing case management

 

If your case does not meet these criteria, we will let you know.

 

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How the Process Works

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1. You submit an enquiry using the form below

2. PAPA reviews your information for suitability and proportionality

3. If appropriate, your case is matched to available counsel

4. You are contacted directly by PAPA initially regarding scope, availability, and fees

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There is no obligation to proceed.

 

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Fees and Transparency

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Barristers set their own fees independently.

 

PAPA does not:

 

• Inflate or control fees

• Promise outcomes or costs

 

Where possible, we support:

 

• Limited scope work

• Clear objectives

• Proportionate fee structures

• Fewer, more effective hearings

 

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Confidentiality

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Your enquiry is confidential.

 

Information submitted:

 

• Is reviewed internally by PAPA

• Is shared only where appropriate

• Is not published, reused, or sold

• Is handled in line with data protection requirements

 

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Submit a Barrister Enquiry

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This form is for parents who understand that self representation is the default approach and that barrister input is considered only where it adds clear, proportionate value.

 

Incomplete or unsuitable enquiries may not be progressed.