My day begins at around 8:45am with a strong, non-negotiable coffee and a quick review of emails before planning the tasks ahead. Today’s agenda includes:

  • Taking instructions from a client to draft their witness statement
  • Preparing court bundles for upcoming hearings
  • Assisting and taking a detailed note during a client conference
  • Ensuring compliance with directions ordered by the Court

No two mornings are ever quite the same, and that’s one of the reasons I enjoy this seat so much. Staying organised is essential; my diary quickly becomes my closest ally as I balance competing deadlines, fast-moving cases and, at this time of year, coordinating festive family plans.

9:00 – 10:30: Client Instructions and Statement Drafting

Family law itself is incredibly varied. One day I may be assisting with public law proceedings involving safeguarding concerns; the next, I may be working on a private law matter involving child arrangements. Around the festive period, many parents revisit their contact schedules to ensure children can spend meaningful time with both sides of the family. On other days, I may be supporting clients through Form E financial disclosure as part of their financial proceedings, analysing assets, pensions, and property.

10:30 – 12:00: Bundle Preparation

This morning, I prepared a bundle for a Financial Dispute Resolution hearing, including ES1, ES2, Form Es, correspondence, and other key documents. All parties must agree the content before it is filed with the Court. I particularly enjoy preparing the ES1 and ES2, as they summarise both the factual background and the financial landscape of the case. They provide a clear overview of the parties’ positions and highlight the issues the judge will need to determine.

12:30 – 13:30: Lunch

I am completing this seat across both the East Lancashire and Preston offices. With an hour for lunch, I have plenty of time to get some fresh air, usually a walk with colleagues or catching up on a podcast. In December, this might include a quick look around a festive market or checking in with family about who’s taking responsibility for the Christmas food shop.

13:30 – 16:30: Remote Hearing with Client and Counsel

Before the hearing begins, we usually hold a pre-hearing discussion where I take a detailed note and assist counsel, often by quickly locating documents or clarifying points from the client file. Clients really appreciate the additional support; the court process can feel daunting, particularly at this time of year when family pressures often feel more intense.

After the hearing, counsel provides an action list, usually reflected in the approved order. I prioritise these tasks immediately, as family law moves at pace and staying on top of directions is essential. Once completed, I tidy up my notes and share them with counsel as needed.

17:00: Finishing for the Day

Working in Family Law during December offers a unique blend of professional demands and seasonal planning, and each day brings something different. Whatever tomorrow holds, I’ll be ready, with another strong coffee in hand.

The application window for the next cohort onto Farleys training programme will open in January 2026. In the meantime, details of career opportunities at the firm can be found at www.farleys.com/careers.