Going through a family or matrimonial dispute is never easy. Emotions run high, and the legal process can seem overwhelming. That is where we come in.
At Sinels we provide clear, strategic advice to help you make informed decisions during a difficult time. Based in the heart of St Helier, we have supported Jersey clients through separations, child arrangements and financial settlements for over thirty years. Our family lawyers understand how sensitive these matters are, and we are here to guide you with professionalism, empathy and complete confidentiality.
Speak to Us in Confidence
How We Work
Every family is different, and every case needs care as well as strategy. Some matters can be resolved quickly through negotiation or mediation. Others need court proceedings. Either way we are with you at every step.
Our aim is to reduce conflict wherever possible and to provide calm, solutions-focused support. We will always explain your options in plain English and keep you updated as things progress.
We work out at the start what the realistic outcome looks like, and then work towards it. That approach means most of our matters are resolved by agreement, and that clients spend as little time in court, and as little time with lawyers, as their situation allows.
Where an agreement cannot be reached, or where the other side will not provide proper financial disclosure, we are entirely prepared to go to court and to make them account for it. Being ready for that is what makes a sensible settlement possible.
Where We Can Help
- Child residence and contact arrangements
- Parental responsibility, including for unmarried parents and grandparents
- Financial provision for children under Schedule 1 of the Children (Jersey) Law 2002
- Separation and divorce, and the financial settlement that follows
- Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements
- Protective orders in cases involving domestic abuse
- Relocation, and cases where a child has been taken from the Island or is at risk of being taken
We also regularly assist clients with cross-border family issues connected to Jersey, and with matters where trusts or business interests form part of the picture.
Children
Where children are involved, the court’s paramount consideration is their welfare. In our experience most parents, whatever they think of each other, are capable of deciding what is best for their children, and a good deal of our work is helping them get to that point without a contested hearing.
Where agreement is not possible, we can apply to the Family Court for residence, contact and specific issue orders, and can act urgently where a child is at risk of being removed from the Island without consent.
Why Clients Choose Sinels
When you instruct Sinels you work directly with a senior lawyer, not a call centre or a rotating team.
Clients value our local expertise in Jersey family law, our record in sensitive and complex cases, our transparent costs and clear communication, and our ability to handle matters involving property, trusts or businesses where those are part of the estate.
We are known for discretion, reliability and honest advice. If we think a course of action is not worth taking, we will say so.
Talk to Our Family Team
Or Call Us: +44 (0)1534 620500
Frequently Asked Questions About Family & Children Law
How does the court decide arrangements for children?
Under Article 2 of the Children (Jersey) Law 2002 the child’s welfare is the court’s paramount consideration. The Family Court works through a welfare checklist that includes the child’s own wishes and feelings according to their age and understanding, their physical, emotional and educational needs, the likely effect of any change, and any risk of harm.
Most arrangements are agreed rather than ordered. Where the court is asked to decide, our role is to put your position before it clearly and on proper evidence.
Can a parent take a child out of Jersey without the other parent’s agreement?
No. Removing a child from Jersey without the written consent of everyone with parental responsibility, or without an order of the Family Court, is unlawful.
If you believe a child is about to be taken, act immediately. Applications can be made urgently to the court, including for prohibited steps orders, and arrangements can be made through the Viscount’s Department and the ports.
Do we have to go to court?
Usually not. Most family matters are resolved by agreement, whether directly, through solicitors, or at mediation, and that is nearly always the better outcome for everyone involved, particularly the children.
Court is there for when agreement genuinely is not possible, or where one party will not engage or will not disclose their finances. Even then, most cases settle before a final hearing.
What will it cost?
We will give you a clear view at the outset of what your matter is likely to involve and what it is likely to cost, and we will tell you when a course of action is not worth the money.
Litigation for ordinary families is expensive and stressful, and running up costs helps nobody. Our job is to get you to a resolution, not to prolong the argument.
