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Sousa Law

We are a niche firm of solicitors specialising in all areas of family law.

We understand that relationship breakdown can be one of the most difficult and emotionally draining experiences for an individual. We provide clear positive advice, ensuring that the client fully understands all of the options open to them allowing them to make a balanced decision about how to proceed. All of our initial consultations last as long as you need, allowing us time to fully explain the

options available to you, and you the time you need to fully digest the advice given without having to clock watch.

20/05/2026

Whilst at Sousa Law we do all we can to resolve family matters sensibly through - when a husband withdraws all financial support from a Wife and refuses to co-operate, Court is sadly the only option. Huge congratulations today to Esther Darmanin and Franky Payne for securing orders for MPS, LSPO and costs meaning our client now has the financial security to pay her bills, feed the children and afford legal representation to secure a fair final settlement. Well done 🙂🤩

08/05/2026

💭 What is the role of Cafcass?

During some family court proceedings, Cafcass intervention is required. However, many families aren’t aware of what Cafcass is or what its role consists of.

Cafcass is the Children and Family Court Advisory Service, an organisation which may become involved during proceedings where there are concerns over the welfare of the child. Cafcass’ main role is to serve the interests of the child/ren and ensure their wishes and feelings are effectively voiced.

In cases where concerns are raised, the court may appoint a Cafcass Children’s Guardian, a qualified social worker, who can:

⚜️ Appoint a solicitor on behalf of the child
⚜️ Conduct subtle assessments with the child to gauge their honest feelings
⚜️ Speak with related professionals, such as the child’s school/nursery
⚜️ Conduct a Section 7 Report, now more commonly referred to as a Child Impact Report

When involved, a Cafcass officer will ensure they work to serve the best interests of the child. This might include gaining information on:

⚜️ The child’s feelings about their parents
⚜️ What and who is important to the child
⚜️ Any safety or well-being concerns noted during the assessments
⚜️ The suitability of current living and contact arrangements

It’s important to remember that Cafcass’ involvement is to work to create a more positive environment for the child, and ensure their wishes are heard. The aim is to provide the child/ren with arrangements that ensure their emotional, physical, mental, and financial needs can be met effectively.

For more information on Cafcass involvement, contact Sousa Law today.

30/04/2026

In the approach to the bank holiday weekend, many families are thinking about how to spend an extra day in the sun or potential breaks away. However, for many separated families, this additional contact can be an opportunity for conflict.

When considering contact arrangements, it is important to consider who spends time with the children over the bank holiday weekend. Some of the frequently raised questions are:

❓The kids spent the weekend with me. Does that mean they stay with me on bank holiday Monday?
❓I always pick the kids up from school on Monday and so they should be with me during the day. Is it unfair to ask my ex-partner to drop them back to me in the morning?
❓My ex-partner had the kids over the last bank holiday. Surely that means I should get them this time around?

When making arrangements, many parents consider half terms, Christmas break, summer holidays or birthdays. Many parents forget about the additional days brought on by the bank holiday. It’s important to think carefully about how these days should be spent as it can create unnecessary tensions. Sousa Law can help ease this conflict by helping you prepare fair and agreeable terms, by way of:

💭 Mediation
💭 Collaborative Law
💭 Resolution Together

Sousa Law can help you draft a Parenting Plan so that these arrangements are clearly outlined. This ensures co-parents are on the same page and ultimately improves their relationship, which is crucial for the children.

24/04/2026

Sousa Law is incredibly proud to share that our Director Catherine Sousa has again been named a Recommended Family and Divorce Lawyer in the Doyles Guide 2026.

This is a truly valued form of recognition that demonstrates Cathy’s extensive abilities. This recognition outlines her expertise and significant contributions to the field of Family Law. With over 21 years of experience as a family law solicitor and over 16 years at the helm of Sousa Law, Cathy has built an outstanding reputation locally and nationally. Cathy’s ability to sensitively navigate complex family dynamics and achieve amicable solutions has been instrumental in her success.

Cathy is widely regarded as an expert in all forms of NCDR. Her expertise in mediation, arbitration, Resolution Together and collaborative law has made her a sought after advisor to clients and also as a training specialist in family law to the wider profession nationally.

You can view the results at https://doylesguide.com/leading-family-divorce-lawyers-hampshire-2026/.

23/04/2026

Last week, the Sousa Law team dined Mamma Mia style 🇬🇷🏛️🏺🌸

Our Social Committee hosted a Greek-themed lunch, and each team member brought in a dish (or a few) to share. From hot honey halloumi, to traditional Greek meatballs, homemade tzatziki and chicken kebabs, we dined like kings and queens.

This was delicious and got the team away from their desks over lunch! A really great event, huge thanks to everyone that brought in a dish and to the social committee for organising!

16/04/2026

Sousa Law is excited to see the progress of the Child Focused Courts, now to be rolled out across England and Wales, following success as the Pathfinder Pilot!

Pathfinder saw family court backlogs reduce significantly, with matters being resolved around 7.5 months quicker than those outside of trial areas. The pilot looked to streamline court processes in order to save children from months of unnecessary torment. It is hoped that this new model will reduce the number of cases returning to court, preventing children from suffering further trauma.

A key aim of the Child Focused Courts is to ensure the wishes and feelings of children are heard and that they are supported. This is particularly important for children who are suffering because of domestic abuse. Child Focused Courts will ensure that the safety and welfare of the child remain the paramount consideration.

As said by Sir Andrew McFarlane, President of the Family Division, “The model benefits families and indeed the whole system with fewer hearings, a better understanding of domestic abuse, and less parents returning to court because the arrangements have broken down”.

We look forward to seeing the beneficial changes of Child Focused Courts.

09/04/2026

On Saturday 11th April, it’s National Pet Day 🐾 🐶🐱

Sousa Law would like to take a moment to celebrate all pets, both big and small. However, there is a daunting reminder that looms over this day. Under the law in England and Wales, pets are still legally considered "chattels" - like furniture or jewellery - and are treated as assets during separation. Although, courts are increasingly taking into account the emotional and practical realities of pet ownership.

At Sousa Law, we understand that pets aren’t just possessions—they are cherished members of your family. Many of us are pet owners ourselves, and if you’ve visited our office, chances are you’ve met one of our friendly office dogs!

In the 2024 case of FI v DO, the Court was asked to determine where the family’s golden retriever should live. Although the husband said that he had paid for the dog, the Court found that the wife had been the dog’s primary caregiver and that the children had a strong emotional bond with him.

The Court considered several factors, including who provided daily care, post-separation living arrangements, and the overall welfare of the dog. Ultimately, the Court decided that the dog should remain living with the wife, who had been the primary caregiver for the previous 18 months, noting that this home was the dog’s “safe place.”

Planning Ahead Makes a Difference

To prevent disputes, we recommend creating a Pet-nup—an agreement that sets out who owns the pet, who will care for them if you separate, and how ongoing costs like food, insurance, and vet bills will be managed. While not legally binding, a Pet-nup can provide valuable clarity and may support your case if disagreements arise.

At Sousa Law, we understand how much your pet means to you—because we feel the same about ours. Whether you need help preparing a Pet-nup, making arrangements for your pet post-separation, or resolving a dispute, our team offers expert family legal advice with genuine care.

📸🐾 You can find some of our furry friends below!

02/04/2026

Preparation is Key 🔑

The Easter Holidays are for fun, quality time and lots and lotssss of chocolate. However, this can be an opportunity for disagreements and tensions, especially for those who have yet to make childcare arrangements with their fellow co-parent.

Sousa Law commonly sees dispute over:
💭 Who gets the first week of Easter break?
💭 What time should handover be?
💭 Where should handover be?
💭 Difficulty with work commitments.

Where agreement cannot be reached over these points, tensions rise and the co-parenting relationship can begin to break down. Sousa Law offers various ways in which parents can amicably reach agreement over arrangements for school holidays, not just for the Easter break. You may consider some of the following Non-Court Dispute Resolution options:
💭 Mediation
💭 The Collaborative Process
💭 Resolution Together

Engaging in NCDR early allows negotiations to progress positively and effectively. Sousa Law can help with determining what the most suitable option might be for you.

27/03/2026

Palm Sunday is often seen as a moment of reflection, humility, and the start of a new chapter.

For many people, Family Law issues, such as divorce and child arrangements, can feel quite the opposite. They associate this topic to be uncertain, emotional and nerve racking.

In Family Law, we often meet people at, potentially, the most difficult points in their lives. While the process can feel overwhelming, it can also mark the beginning of something new - a healthier environment, a more stable future for children, or simply a chance to move forward.

As practitioners, our role is not just to resolve disputes, but to guide clients through transition with clarity, empathy and a focus on what truly matters. At Sousa Law, we know the best way to calm tensions is through utilising NCDR, whether it be through:
🤝 Mediation
🤝 The Collaborative Process
🤝 Roundtable Meetings
🤝 Arbitration
🤝 Resolution Together

This Palm Sunday, it’s a reminder that even in challenging moments, there is space for renewal, perspective, and positive change. Consider a better way forward with Sousa Law.

19/03/2026

Tomorrow marks the 2026 Spring Equinox. This is a day all about balance, where day and night are equal ⚖️🌸

In Family Law, balance is truly important. Whether this be balancing child contact arrangements or finding an equal balance in the division of assets. At Sousa Law, we understand the necessity of finding the midway point.

In the approach to spring, it’s often on the minds of many separated parents when they should start making arrangements for school holidays. Finding a balance within this is essential for both parents and children.

When it comes to making those arrangements, especially for those that don’t already have this outlined in a court order, parents often clash in the decision-making process. There are various ways that Sousa Law can assist parents with reaching these agreements, including:

🌿 Mediation
🌿 Resolution Together
🌿 The Collaborative Process

The aim of these methods is to avoid the costly process of court. Sousa Law can help you and your ex-partner reach an agreement that can be drafted into a Parenting Plan. While not legally binding, this is an excellent reference point for both parents and can be provided as evidence if matters do end up in court.

Call Sousa Law today for more information on 02380 713 060.

Address

16 College Place
Southampton
SO152FE

Opening Hours

Monday	9am - 5pm
Tuesday	9am - 5pm
Wednesday	9am - 5pm
Thursday	9am - 5pm
Friday	9am - 5pm

Website

http://www.sousalaw.co.uk/

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