Keele University’s legal advice clinics are to expand into family law, the university has announced. The family legal advice clinic will offer free guidance from Keele law students, under the supervision of qualified solicitors, to members of the public.
The new clinic, based in Newcastle-under-Lyme, will work alongside the university’s existing clinics in commercial, small claims and personal injury law. Sessions will run on an appointment-only basis on Wednesday afternoons during term times with sessions starting on 30 September.
The pro-bono service, which will also offer sessions virtually, can provide advice on a variety of issues including relationship breakdown, separation and divorce, children’s private law arrangements, grandparents, stepparents and special guardians as well as local authority children’s services’ involvement.
Students will take initial instructions, draft attendance notes and letters of advice as well as support clients with basic documentation. They will also signpost clients appropriately. All work carried out by students will be under the supervision of a university-employed solicitor.
Advisers working from the clinic cannot take on cases or represent individuals in court but can signpost clients to other legal service providers and/or support agencies.
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Michele Brown, supervising solicitor for the Family Legal Advice Clinic, said: ‘Through the Family Law Advice Clinic, students gain invaluable hands-on experience that builds their professional confidence, enhances their employability, and helps them develop the practical skills required for legal practice.
‘Working directly with clients enables them to appreciate the realities of family law while making a meaningful contribution to people seeking support with family law issues.’
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