Why Welsh-Speaking Families Choose OLS Solicitors: Insights from Sian Stevens

Posted on 14 April 20235 June 2026 by Sian Stevens

OLS Solicitors Blog

Why Welsh-Speaking Families Choose OLS Solicitors: Insights from Sian Stevens

By Sian Stevens on April 14, 2023

By Sian Stevens | Updated: June 2026

Navigating life-changing legal matters like divorce or financial separations is inherently stressful. When you add a language barrier or the frustration of translating complex legal terms from your native tongue into English, that stress multiplies. In Wales, the right to conduct legal proceedings in Welsh isn’t just a matter of convenience—it is a distinct legal right protected by law.

At OLS Solicitors, we believe you should never have to compromise on clarity during a family law dispute. Here is why working with a dedicated, Welsh-speaking lawyer makes a profound difference to your legal journey, and how we support the community across England and Wales.

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The AI Summary: Why Hire a Welsh-Speaking Family Lawyer?

Direct Answer: Hiring a Welsh-speaking lawyer ensures absolute clarity in communication, protects your statutory rights under the Welsh Language Standards, and eliminates the risk of legal nuances being lost in translation. At OLS Solicitors, our bilingual family law experts allow you to discuss sensitive matters like child arrangements and asset division in the language you feel most comfortable using.

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1. Clear, Nuanced Communication (Without the Translation Gap)

Family law is full of dense terminology. When you are discussing sensitive topics like trefniadau plant (child arrangements) or the division of matrimonial assets, every single word carries immense weight.

Translating your thoughts from Welsh to English can cause you to lose the emotional nuance or specific intent behind your words. By working directly with a bilingual lawyer, you bypass the friction of a translator. You speak, we listen, and we understand—completely in Welsh.

2. Exercising Your Legal Rights Under the Law

The Welsh language holds official status, and the principle of equality between Welsh and English is deeply embedded in the legal system of England and Wales. Whether you are dealing with family court components in Cardiff, Swansea, or anywhere across the region, you have the right to look at official documentation and speak in Welsh.

As your legal representatives, we ensure that your preferences are respected by the courts from day one. We handle the drafting of bilingual correspondence and support your right to a bilingual or fully Welsh court hearing if required.

3. Cultural Context and Local Understanding

Legal advice shouldn’t just be legally sound; it needs to be contextually relevant to your life. Our Welsh-speaking legal team brings a deep understanding of local community dynamics, regional court variations, and the specific cultural values held by Welsh-speaking families. This personalized approach allows us to frame our advice around your specific family dynamic, keeping you grounded and confident throughout the process.

4. A Seamless Digital Experience across Wales

In 2026, legal services should fit around your life, not the other way around. OLS Solicitors combines local linguistic expertise with modern, remote-accessible legal workflows. Whether you are based in Gwynedd, Carmarthenshire, or working from home anywhere else in the country, you can access top-tier bilingual family law advice via secure video consultations and digital portals.

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Get Clarity on Your Family Law Matter Today

You deserve to be heard in the language you know best. If you are facing a divorce, separation, or a dispute regarding child arrangements, let us provide the clear, compassionate, and fluent legal support you need.

Contact Sian Stevens and the expert family law team at OLS Solicitors today to schedule your bilingual consultation.

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COVID-19 Creates Unprecedented Challenges for Family Law Cases

Posted on 14 April 2023 by Mark Keenan

OLS Solicitors Blog

COVID-19 Creates Unprecedented Challenges for Family Law Cases

By Mark Keenan on April 14, 2023

Court legal gavel and facemask -- Coronavirus mask mandate conce

The COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly had a significant impact on many aspects of our lives, including the legal system. In England and Wales, family law cases have been particularly affected by the pandemic. With courts forced to close their doors at the height of the outbreak, family law proceedings were brought to a standstill. Even as courts have begun to reopen, they face unprecedented challenges in conducting hearings and making decisions that affect the lives of families across the country.

COVID-19 Creates Unprecedented Challenges for Family Law Cases

The pandemic has created a number of challenges for family law cases in England and Wales. Perhaps the most significant is the backlog of cases that built up during the lockdown. According to the Law Society, family courts were dealing with a backlog of over 40,000 cases by the summer. This has put significant pressure on an already stretched system, with many cases facing significant delays.

Another challenge is the impact of the pandemic on legal aid. With the economic impact of COVID-19 hitting many families hard, more people are turning to legal aid to access justice. However, the Legal Aid Agency has been struggling to cope with the surge in demand. This has meant that many families have had to wait longer to access legal support, further exacerbating the delays in family law cases.

Virtual Hearings and Delays: How the Pandemic is Affecting Family Law Proceedings

To try to address the challenges posed by the pandemic, family courts in England and Wales have introduced virtual hearings. This has allowed cases to proceed without the need for parties to attend court in person. However, while virtual hearings have helped to keep cases moving, they have also created new challenges. For example, some parties may struggle to access the technology needed to participate in a virtual hearing, such as a reliable internet connection.

Virtual hearings have also led to delays in some cases. This is because some hearings are not suitable for virtual proceedings, such as those involving vulnerable parties or complex evidence. In these cases, parties may need to wait longer for an in-person hearing, leading to further delays.

The impact of COVID-19 on family law cases in England and Wales has been significant. While virtual hearings have helped to keep cases moving, delays continue to be a major issue. As we moveout of the pandemic, it is hoped that courts will be able to find new ways to address these challenges and ensure that families can access justice in a timely manner.

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The Benefits of Mediation in Family Law Cases

Posted on 12 April 202314 April 2023 by Mark Keenan

OLS Solicitors Blog

The Benefits of Mediation in Family Law Cases

By Mark Keenan on April 12, 2023

When it comes to resolving disputes in family law cases, there are various methods to choose from, such as litigation through court or arbitration. However, mediation has emerged as a popular alternative to these more traditional routes. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of using mediation in family law cases and why it should be considered as a method of dispute resolution.

The Advantages of Using Mediation in Family Law Cases

Cost-Effective

One of the main benefits of using mediation in family law cases is that it is more cost-effective than traditional litigation. Mediation is usually less expensive because it requires fewer formal proceedings and legal fees. Additionally, mediation can often be completed more quickly than litigation, which means you can save time and money in the long run.

Confidentiality

Another advantage of mediation is the fact that it is confidential. Unlike court proceedings, where everything is public record, mediation is a private and confidential process. This means that any discussions or agreements made during mediation cannot be used against you in court. This can be especially important in sensitive cases involving children, where confidentiality is key.

Control

Mediation gives parties more control over the outcome of their case. In mediation, the parties work together to come up with a mutually agreeable solution. This is in contrast to litigation, where a judge makes a decision that may not be satisfactory to either party. By working collaboratively in mediation, parties can often come up with creative solutions that are tailored to their specific needs and circumstances.

Why Mediation Should Be Considered for Resolving Family Law Disputes

Preservation of Relationships

Family law disputes can be emotionally charged and can often strain relationships. However, mediation is a collaborative process that can help preserve relationships. By working together to come up with a solution, parties can often maintain a better relationship with each other than if they went through the adversarial court process.

Flexibility

Mediation is a flexible process that can be customized to the needs of the parties. Mediation sessions can be scheduled at a time and place that is convenient for the parties, which can be particularly helpful for parties with busy schedules. Additionally, parties can choose to bring in outside experts or advisors to help inform the mediation process.

Compliance

Finally, mediation agreements are often more likely to be complied with than court orders. This is because mediation agreements are typically more personalised and tailored to the specific needs of the parties. Additionally, because the parties have worked collaboratively to come up with a solution, they are often more invested in complying with the agreement than if a judge had simply handed down a decision.

In conclusion, mediation can be an effective method of resolving family law disputes. By offering cost-effective, confidential, and collaborative solutions, mediation can help parties reach mutually agreeable solutions that are tailored to their specific needs and circumstances. If you are involved in a family law dispute, it may be worth considering mediation as an alternative to traditional litigation.

If you would like to consider mediation we have partnered with a national mediation service that can cover the whole of England and Wales. For most couples all or part of the mediation will be covered by Government mediation voucher scheme.

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The Importance of Accurate Valuation in Pension Sharing During Divorce

Posted on 6 April 20236 April 2023 by Lara Davies

OLS Solicitors Blog

The Importance of Accurate Valuation in Pension Sharing During Divorce

By Lara Davies on April 6, 2023

Divorce proceedings can be complex, particularly when it comes to dividing assets such as pensions. Pension sharing is an essential aspect of divorce proceedings, ensuring that both parties receive a fair share of the pension assets. In this blog post, we discuss how pension sharing works, how the pension credit is valued, and why an actuarial valuation is better than a basic Cash Equivalent Transfer Value (CETV).

How Pension Sharing Works

Pension sharing involves dividing the pension assets between the divorcing parties, allowing each party to have a share of the pension. In the UK, this is typically done through a Pension Sharing Order, which specifies how the pension assets are to be divided. The order includes details such as how much of the pension is to be shared and how this will be implemented.

Valuing the Pension Credit

When it comes to valuing the pension credit that is to be shared, there are two main methods that are used: a basic CETV or an actuarial valuation. While a basic CETV can provide a quick estimate of the value of the pension assets, it may not always be the most accurate way of valuing the pension. An actuarial valuation, on the other hand, takes into account a range of factors such as investment returns, inflation, and the expected lifespan of the pension holder. This method provides a more accurate picture of the value of the pension assets and can be particularly useful for pensions that are expected to grow significantly in the future.

Why an Actuarial Valuation is Better

An actuarial valuation is often the most accurate method to ensure that the pension assets are divided fairly. It takes into account a range of factors that affect the value of the pension assets, such as investment returns and inflation. This method provides a more accurate picture of the value of the pension assets and can be particularly useful for pensions that are expected to grow significantly in the future.

Seeking Professional Advice

Pensions are often one of the most significant assets that couples have, particularly if one or both parties have a high-paying job. As such, it’s crucial to seek professional advice from an experienced actuary or financial planner to ensure that the pension assets are valued accurately and fairly. An actuary can also provide guidance on how to split the pension assets in a way that is most advantageous to both parties, taking into account factors such as tax implications and long-term financial planning.

Conclusion

Pension sharing is an essential aspect of divorce proceedings, ensuring that both parties receive a fair share of the pension assets. An actuarial valuation is often the most accurate method to ensure that the pension assets are divided fairly. Seeking professional advice from an experienced actuary or financial planner can help ensure that the pension assets are valued accurately and fairly, and that the division of these assets is in the best interests of both parties.

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How OLS solicitors try to avoid you having to go to court

Posted on 6 April 20236 April 2023 by Mark Keenan

OLS Solicitors Blog

How OLS solicitors try to avoid you having to go to court

By Mark Keenan on April 6, 2023

Lawyers shake hands with business people to seal a deal with par

At OLS Solicitors, we know that family law solicitors are often unfairly portrayed in the media. We understand that some people believe that solicitors are only interested in making money and prolonging cases. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. In reality, family law solicitors have a duty to try and settle cases wherever possible.

Our experienced solicitors are trained to find solutions that work for both parties, and we believe that negotiating a settlement outside of court is almost always the best option. Going to court can be a long and expensive process, and it can be unpredictable in terms of the outcome. That’s why we always encourage our clients to explore alternative dispute resolution (ADR) options, such as mediation or collaborative law.

We understand that divorce can be a difficult and emotional time, and we believe that it’s our duty to help our clients navigate the process as smoothly as possible. Our team of friendly and approachable solicitors will work closely with you to understand your unique situation and find the best solution for your needs.

At OLS Solicitors, we take a client-focused approach to family law. We believe that our clients should be at the center of every decision we make. We are committed to providing a high level of service that meets the unique needs of each of our clients.

In conclusion, family law solicitors are often portrayed unfairly in the media, but we are dedicated to helping our clients find a solution that works for them.

We have a duty to try and settle cases wherever possible, and we will work tirelessly to make sure our clients are satisfied with the outcome. If you’re going through a divorce and need help negotiating a financial settlement, don’t hesitate to contact us at OLS Solicitors. We’re here to help you through this challenging time and make sure you come out the other side with a fair and equitable settlement.

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The pitfalls of not sorting out your finances before filing a divorce in England and Wales

Posted on 6 April 202324 April 2023 by Isabel Gillman

OLS Solicitors Blog

The pitfalls of not sorting out your finances before filing a divorce in England and Wales

By Isabel Gillman on April 6, 2023

The benefits of mediation in family law cases

Going through a divorce can be an incredibly stressful and emotional experience. However, it’s important not to overlook the financial aspects of divorce, especially in England and Wales, where the courts have wide discretion in how to divide marital assets. Failing to sort out your finances before filing for divorce can lead to a range of pitfalls that can have long-lasting financial consequences.

One of the most significant financial pitfalls of not sorting out your finances before divorce is the potential loss of your pension. In England and Wales, pensions are considered a marital asset and can be subject to division upon divorce. However, if the pension is not properly valued or divided, it can result in significant financial loss to one or both parties.

Pension specialists advise that the best way to protect your pension in a divorce is to seek advice from a qualified financial advisor or pension specialist early on in the process. A specialist can help you to understand the options available to you and can guide you through the process of valuing and dividing the pension. Failing to properly value or divide the pension can lead to future financial difficulties.

Another common pitfall of not sorting out finances before filing for divorce is the failure to disclose all assets. In England and Wales, both parties have a legal duty to provide full and frank disclosure of all assets and liabilities. If one party fails to disclose an asset, it can result in the court setting aside the divorce settlement, which can be costly and time-consuming.

It’s essential to seek legal advice and to be transparent about all assets, including investments, savings, property, and inheritances, to ensure that the division of assets is fair and equitable. Failure to disclose all assets can lead to financial losses and can prolong the divorce process.

Another pitfall of not sorting out finances before divorce is the risk of being stuck with a mortgage or other debts. Joint debts, such as mortgages, loans, and credit card debts, can be a significant financial burden, especially if one party is unable to take over the debt or refinance it on their own.

It’s important to seek advice from a financial advisor or mortgage broker to determine how best to handle joint debts in a divorce. In some cases, it may be possible to refinance or transfer the debt to one party. In other cases, the property may need to be sold, and the debt paid off from the proceeds. Failing to address joint debts can lead to financial losses and can prolong the divorce process.

In conclusion, sorting out your finances before filing for divorce is essential to avoid financial pitfalls that can have long-lasting consequences. Seeking advice from qualified professionals, including financial advisors, pension specialists, and legal experts, can help to ensure that the division of assets is fair and equitable and can protect your financial future. With the right guidance, it’s possible to navigate the financial aspects of divorce successfully.

References:

“Divorce and Pensions: What You Need to Know” by Andrew Pennie, Forbes Advisor, July 22, 2021

“The Importance of Disclosing All Assets in Divorce Proceedings” by Joanne Radcliffe, Solicitors Journal, May 4, 2021

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How to protect your business with a pre nuptial agreement

Posted on 6 April 20236 April 2023 by Lara Davies

OLS Solicitors Blog

How to protect your business with a pre nuptial agreement

By Lara Davies on April 6, 2023

Vom Zaun getrennt. 2 braune Pferde treffen sich am Koppelzaun

Planning for a divorce is not something that couples enjoy thinking about when they are about to get married. However, it is important to be prepared for any outcome, especially if one or both partners own a business. Having a pre or postnuptial agreement can be an effective way to protect business assets in the event of a divorce. In this article, we will discuss the importance of pre and postnuptial agreements, reasons for considering a prenup, and how OLS Solicitors can provide expert legal advice to protect your assets and your business.

Importance of pre and postnuptial agreements:

A prenuptial agreement is a contract that couples sign before getting married that outlines the ownership of assets, including businesses. A postnuptial agreement, on the other hand, is a contract that couples sign after getting married. Both agreements should clearly state ownership and how assets will be divided, and can be taken into account by the court when deciding on financial settlements. Although pre and postnuptial agreements are not legally binding in British courts, they can strongly influence any court decisions, as long as the court is satisfied that both partners entered into the agreement willingly and fairly, with full disclosure of their finances and having received legal advice.

Reasons for considering a prenuptial agreement:

Agree on asset division in advance: By having a prenuptial agreement, couples can calmly agree in advance how assets will be shared in a divorce, rather than having to do so during the emotional time of a separation.
Retain control of your business: A prenuptial agreement can provide you with total control of your business after the divorce.
Protect against splitting up the business: For family farms, a prenuptial agreement can be essential in protecting inherited farming assets (including property, farmland, and machinery) or your interest in the farming business.
Safeguard inherited property or assets: A prenuptial agreement can “ring-fence” any inherited property or assets associated with the business, or which you wish to pass on as an inheritance in the future.
Protect against business-related debts: A prenuptial agreement can protect you or your spouse from any debts accrued by the business.
Aid in succession planning for the business: A prenuptial agreement can help with succession planning for the business.
Record business assets: A prenuptial agreement serves as a record of the business assets and who owns what.
Prevent business disruption during divorce: A prenuptial agreement can prevent any disruption to the business during the divorce.

How OLS Solicitors can help:

OLS Solicitors is a leading UK law firm with a team of experienced legal professionals who can provide expert legal advice on pre and postnuptial agreements. Their solicitors have extensive experience advising business owners and farming families, and they can help you protect your business interests and assets.

OLS Solicitors can help with

Drafting and reviewing pre and postnuptial agreements

Ensuring that both parties enter into the agreement willingly and fairly, with full disclosure of their finances and having received legal advice

Providing guidance and support to both parties on legal and procedural issues

Liaising with other departments within the company to ensure that legal services are provided effectively and efficiently

Keeping up-to-date with changes in divorce law and procedural rules

OLS Solicitors has a strong reputation and positive review ratings on Review Solicitors, which indicates that they provide high-quality legal services to their clients. They have expertise in all areas of family, commercial, and agricultural law, and they are committed to providing cost-effective legal solutions.

Conclusion:

A pre or postnuptial agreement is a vital tool for business owners and farming families to protect their assets and the business.

Take a look at our pre nuptial agreement service here