Citizens Advice is a network of independent charities across England and Wales which provides free, confidential and independent advice to help people with everything from money issues to problems at work and housing worries to consumer rights.
Gemma is a Partner in CooperBurnett’s family and matrimonial department. She qualified in 1996 and, for the last 20 years, has specialised in family law, acting on behalf of clients in complex financial cases in respect of divorce proceedings and private law children proceedings.
“During my sessions at Citizens Advice, I advise on a range of family matters from finances through to adoption and protection injunctions,” says Gemma. “Unsurprisingly, lockdown has resulted in an increase in people seeking help and advice surrounding these matters and it doesn’t look as if this will slow-up any time soon.”
She continues: “I really enjoy being able to point people in the right direction. So much advice is now online and generic and doesn’t meet a person’s specific circumstance. I am able to advise on their legal position and when it is worth pursuing a matter and, if so, how they should do this and what local services are out there to help.”
Gemma is also offering advice to people who have contacted DAVSS, the community-based charity supporting male and female victims of domestic abuse in West Kent.
“Unfortunately, lockdown has meant that the instances of domestic abuse have risen and I’ve heard some really distressing stories over recent weeks,” says Gemma. “Working alongside the team behind DAVSS, I have been able to offer people some advice regarding their legal position.”
If you need further advice from our Family Law team, then do get in touch: 01892 515022 or email Gemma Gillespie on: gjg@cooperburnett.com
