Sandra Horwood of J A Hughes in Barry talks to us about her reasons for becoming a divorce lawyer and addresses some of the issues that affect relationships at this time of year.

Sandra Horwood, LLB is the Head of the Matrimonial and Family Department at J A Hughes in Barry. Sandra specialises in all aspects of Family law, including divorce, children and financial matters, both private and legal aid work. Sandra also provides advise in care cases.

What made you become a divorce lawyer?
I obtained my Law Degree from Cardiff University and passed my Law Society final at Lancaster Gate, London. Upon qualification as a Solicitor in 1987 I had to make a decision as to what are of law I wished to pursue. Having always been able to empathise with people who are having difficulties I decided not to enter the corporate world of law but to put my personal traits to use in family law. I am very proud to have been one of the first members of the Law Society’s Family Law Panel and I am also a member of Resolution.

I’ve heard that more people break up over Christmas than at any other time of the year. Is this true?
Christmas is a very emotional time for families in any event. Adults are very busy and children very excited. If a relationship is already under strain the added pressure at this time of year tends to bring all the problems to a head. Quite often couples will stay together over the Christmas period for the sake of the children but then take action in relation to their marital problems in the New Year.

Have you noticed a rise in the level of divorce over recent years?
There does not appear to be a particular rise in the amount of divorces. However, I have noticed a marked increase in unmarried couples separating who obviously require advice following the breakdown of their relationship.

Are your clients predominantly male or female?
I have a fairly equal mix of male and female clients. I cover all aspects of a relationship breakdown whether the couple are married or not.

Why do you think they come to you?
Firstly, the firm of J A Hughes has been established in Barry for over 100 years and, being a tight knit community, most people in the town have heard of the firm. Secondly, I have been with the firm since before I qualified (over 20 years) and have developed a good rapport with my clients. So much so a lot of new clients are referred to me by word of mouth and as such I feel I have developed a good reputation, not just in Barry but across the Vale.

Do you think the CSA has helped or hindered the divorce process?
I do not think that the CSA has made a great deal of difference to the actual divorce process. A large number of powers afforded to the CSA have been removed from the courts’ jurisdiction. The CSA deals with maintenance issues whether or not the parties are married. They are often in financial difficulties and reliant on maintenance payments.