A rise in matrimonial cases has helped a Scottish solicitors firm to grow its family law business despite the ongoing economic downturn and stagnant property market.
Edinburgh-based family law firm Gibson Kerr has seen a 120% rise in its matrimonial law work over the past 12 months, as a result of couples seeking more legal clarity over marriages and divorces in the city. The boost in matrimonial cases has been fuelled by a rise in enquiries for divorce proceedings, pre-nups and financial settlements over the past year – which the firm believes have stemmed from the gloomy economic climate.
Fiona Rasmusen, partner at Gibson Kerr Law & Property, said: “It’s a tough economy at the moment and many people are worried about their jobs and their money. It’s not only causing tensions among married couples over their assets, but it also means that divorcing couples are more determined than ever to get their fair share of their shared wealth.
“We’ve also seen a big rise in enquiries for prenups over the last 12 months from people worried about ring-fencing any personal wealth acquired from before they met their spouse. Unlike in the past, they don’t want to rush straight into marriage without considering the financial implications – and are willing to pay a family law expert to get the right advice.
The upshot is that we’re seeing more matrimonial law cases than ever before, which has helped cover the drop in property transactions that has also been caused by the downturn. The stagnant property market means that fewer people are putting their homes up for sale and fewer buyers can get mortgage funding for a purchase, so many solicitors are feeling the pinch. Thankfully our matrimonial side of the business is proving more popular than ever, and is allowing us to maintain the same overall company performance we achieved in 2010.”
Gibson Kerr is a family-run law firm that has been established in Edinburgh for more than 100 years. It has an excellent reputation for providing a comprehensive service encompassing both property and personal law, including powers of attorney, executries and wills.
