Introduction: A Testament to Pro Bono Collaboration
In a remarkable display of commitment and generosity, Coram Chambers and Dads House Family Law Clinic teamed up during Pro Bono Week to showcase the power of collaborative legal efforts.
Over five days, this partnership offered invaluable resources to families navigating challenging legal terrains, culminating in a series of impactful events that not only served current clients but also shaped the future of aspiring family law practitioners.
A Shared Passion
Coram Chambers and Dads House Family Law Clinic organised five distinctive events throughout the week, illustrating a shared passion for delivering pro bono legal support. With a particularly busy Wednesday featuring three separate events, both organisations demonstrated their unwavering dedication to those in need.
Wednesday: Immersive Legal Support and Educational Outreach
Wednesday marked the pinnacle of collaboration, as Coram Chambers participated in all three of Dads House Family Law Clinic’s Pro Bono Week events:
- Pro Bono Matrimonial Finances Hearing:
Matthew Richardson represented a parent during a full-day matrimonial finance hearing. Although Dads House Family Law Clinic typically does not provide pro bono advice in this area, Matthew’s expertise was met with heartfelt gratitude from the parent, who praised him for navigating the process with kindness and skill. - Coram Chambers Takes Over Dads House Family Law Clinic:
This second annual takeover involved John Paul Cregan and Sarah Branson providing legal advice to three fathers facing various challenges about seeing their children. Their focus ranged from implementing existing court orders to assisting fathers grappling with complex situations regarding their children. - Dads House Family Law Clinic Panel Event:
A panel at Middle Temple discussed critical issues regarding shared lives and the role of technology in family courts. The event featured notable speakers, including Her Honour Judge Sapnara and Sophie Hill, who engaged in a thought-provoking dialogue exploring the intersections of parenting and family law.
Friday: Continued Commitment to Pro Bono Services
The second day of Coram Chambers’ takeover featured Shárin Diegan and Dr. Bianca Jackson, who provided legal guidance to fathers seeking to navigate family issues, including involvement from Cafcass and mid-proceeding challenges.
Additionally, a Student Q&A session helped aspiring legal professionals better understand the nuances of family law, with discussions centring on constitutional topics and separation of powers—topics that sparked engaging debates among participants.
“One cannot underestimate the power of Dads House Family Law Clinic and Coram Chambers collaboration… It brings relief to parents facing overwhelming burdens.”
Ceri Parker-Carruthers, Dads House
Celebrating the Impact of Pro Bono Efforts
This collaborative effort during Pro Bono Week is a testament to the enduring partnership between Dads House Family Law Clinic and Coram Chambers. With over £1.5 million in free legal advice provided over four years, the clinic addresses the pressing needs of families who often lack access to necessary legal support due to cuts in legal aid.
Ceri Parker-Carruthers, the Family Law Clinic Manager, reflects on this unique partnership, emphasising the critical need for compassionate and expert legal advice in today’s landscape. “One cannot underestimate the power of Dads House Family Law Clinic and Coram Chambers collaboration… It brings relief to parents facing overwhelming burdens.”
Conclusion: A Call to Continued Advocacy
As Pro Bono Week concluded, the collaborative efforts of Coram Chambers and Dads House Family Law Clinic stand as a beacon of hope for families in need. Their work not only highlights the importance of pro bono assistance but also underscores the collective responsibility of the legal community to promote justice and to shine a light on the vital role of pro bono work in family law, ensuring that no parent feels alone in their struggle.
