B P Collins takes an inclusive and non-judgmental approach towards its work and believes that everyone, regardless of their sexuality, is entitled to good legal services with advisers who are unbiased and approachable.
We understand the unique nuances that couples face within the LGBT+ world and have worked with many families both within and outside this community over the years, understanding their specific needs.
As a result of advances in fertility treatment, there are various ways to build your family, including egg or sperm donation, IVF, surrogacy and co-parenting. We understand that each family has a unique set of needs, which we can assist with.
What does a modern family solicitor do?
Our family solicitors will work with you to provide advice specific to your circumstances and needs. Consideration will be given as to whether any supporting documents need to be drafted in order to protect your position and this will be discussed with you during your initial meeting.
As a result of our experience within this field, we understand that situations can change. We can assist throughout your journey to ensure that you are able to make informed decisions during the process of growing your family.
We work closely with the other teams within the firm to provide clients with comprehensive expertise, recognising that more than one issue may arise for your family.
View our modern family brochure.
Our modern family services include:
- Surrogacy agreements
Although not legally binding in this jurisdiction, they are a helpful document to have in place because they record the intentions of the parties involved at the time the document was entered into. They are used to set out the intentions of the parties, both during pregnancy and beyond. - Assisted conception
- Preconception donor agreements
These set out the foundation for growing your family through known donation. It sets out the terms and expectations surrounding a donation of sperm or eggs for assisted reproduction and reflects discussions such as whether the donor will be part of a child’s life and if so, on what terms and who will be treated as the child’s legal parents. - Prenuptial agreements
A prenuptial agreement is a written record of how the parties wish for their assets to be split upon a breakdown of their marriage, including what assets they want to ringfence.
- Cohabiting partners
A cohabitation agreement addresses these issues from the outset, allowing the parties to make clear provision for their financial obligations and expectations both during and after the relationship (in the event that it ends) as well as providing clarity on their interests in any property or other assets.
- Wills, trusts and Lasting Powers of Attorney
It is vital to ensure your wishes are legally recognised. Our experienced private client team provides a confidential service tailored to your individual circumstances. For the LGBTQIA+ community, this may include ensuring your partner inherits your assets if you’re not married or in a civil partnership, appointing a trusted person as executor and trustee (the latter to look after the estate for minor children) or making provisions for your non-biological children. - Workplace discrimination
Discrimination based on sexual orientation or “gender reassignment” (the term the law uses for trans identities) remains a reality in some workplaces. LGBTQIA+ individuals can face
harassment, unfair dismissal, unequal pay or denied promotions. Whether you’re considering a claim, negotiating a severance package or facing an employment tribunal, our employment team offers compassionate legal support and will be by your side every step of the way. - Upholding victims’ rights
Our specialist criminal team stands firmly alongside the LGBTQIA+ community. We understand the challenges that individuals may face when reporting crimes, navigating the justice system or simply being heard in a safe space.
We can help by:
– Guiding you through the criminal justice system
– Ensuring your rights as a victim are upheld every step of the way
– Working closely with police and prosecution services to ensure your case is taken seriously.
Why choose B P Collins as your family solicitors?
Planning ahead ensures peace of mind, not just for you, but for those you love. We can help you take control with clarity and confidence. In our family team, we recognise that all families are unique and our breadth of experience allows us to provide a service to meet each individual client’s needs.
With 50+ years of experience and extensive knowledge, many of our practice groups maintain a top-tier ranking in legal directories such as Chambers HNW, Chambers UK and The Legal 500, with individual lawyers recognised. The firm has been named in The Times Best Law Firms from 2022-2024.
Contact our family solicitors today
For further information or advice, please contact our modern family lawyers on 01753 889995 or enquiries@bpcollins.co.uk.
