Why choose Watkins & Gunn for your children law matter?
Our specialist team is committed to a constructive approach as we recognise that unnecessary acrimony can increase tension at a difficult time and also increase legal costs which will mean less money available for you and your family. Our team will make every effort to take the heat out of a difficult situation for you. You can be safe in the knowledge that you are talking to an expert. We appreciate how difficult relationships can be and we will help you with professional strength and experience to protect your interests.
The Family Team at Watkins & Gunn are ranked in The Legal 500 UK Solicitors 2026 Edition.
‘Watkins & Gunn maintains a strong reputation throughout South Wales across a broad array of private family law matters. ‘
Legal 500 2026
Our Commitment
Our specialist & highly regarded lawyers are committed to:
- Creating the right legal solution for you.
- Providing jargon-free legal advice to ensure you understand your position and your case.
- Being discrete, available and proactive.
- To stand firm alongside you, without losing our approachability and ability to get the result you need.
- To be consistent, clear and transparent on fees.
What we can help you with
Funding your case
We offer a fixed fee initial consultation known as ‘Blueprint’.
At Watkins & Gunn we want to offer something of real value; something that provides you with the tailored advice and information you need to be able to plan your next steps and your future; your ’Blueprint’.
Senior Associate Solicitor, Leah Rhydderch, can offer the Blueprint appointment through the medium of Welsh.
Following your ‘Blueprint’ consultation, we have a competitive costs structure and flexible payment options which we will clearly explain to you from the start and at regular stages throughout your case. We also have a range of fixed price options in appropriate cases, including unbundled (clear and separate) services for discreet pieces of work.
Changes to Legal Aid
From 1st April 2013 the way in which Legal Aid is governed in England and Wales changed dramatically. As a result of these changes many individuals who would previously have benefited from Legal Aid are no longer eligible. Legal Aid for most children and finance matters in private law family cases is now only available where an individual has specified evidence in relation to domestic violence or child protection. At Watkins & Gunn we remain committed to Legal Aid; providing the highest quality advice and assistance to individuals who need our specialist help.
What do I need to do?
Details of what evidence you require and how to go about obtaining it can be found by clicking here. As well as providing evidence of domestic violence or child protection, you will also need to pass a financial assessment. An online calculator can be found here. Once you have obtained the appropriate domestic violence or child protection evidence and have undertaken a provisional financial assessment online then get in touch with our family team who will be able to confirm your eligibility.
What if social services are involved?
If Social Services are holding a Public Law Outline meeting about your children or have decided to issue care proceedings then you will not need to provide the evidence of domestic violence or child protection and will be eligible for help with your legal fees regardless of your financial circumstances. Please get in touch immediately and we will arrange for you to come in and meet with one of our specialist childcare lawyers.
What Do I Do if I am Not Entitled to Legal Aid?
If you are not entitled to Legal Aid we will still be able to help. We offer an initial assessment where we can assess your needs and explain about our own fixed fee schemes.
