Peter volunteers at Exeter Crown and County Court

We’re so thankful that volunteer Peter is sticking with us. He used to volunteer with Support Through Court, but he has now transferred his knowledge of the family courts and more to CASS+. Peter works alongside Ben at Exeter Crown and County Court.

Bringing together a valuable skill set

Peter’s career as a surveyor and in business development has given him an invaluable skill set. He has always aimed for an outstanding service and his work at CASS+ is no exception. First and foremost, he makes sure he asks the right questions to get the best out of people.

Secondly, Peter has excellent attention to detail. He ensures that the people who come through our door understand the steps involved to go through family court.

As a volunteer, being able to draw on the experience of fellow volunteers, alongside the knowledge of the CASS+ team, is a great benefit.

Creative problem-solving

Creative problem-solving is one of our core values. Peter understands the need to identify and help our clients address problems as quickly as possible when they are stressed out:

There are so many people coming through the family courts. The Court Manager and the Judge are really pleased with our work. However, we do need more volunteers to meet the needs of our clients and to provide quality of service.

Peter’s advice for anyone going through family court:

Above all, my approach is to ensure you know exactly what to expect. So many people do not understand how the family court works. More importantly, they do not understand how they fit into the proceedings.

Problems to solve

Delays occur if the client doesn’t get the application paperwork right. Delays affect everyone involved. It’s so important to get it right. There are a lot of problems to solve. For instance, everything is very difficult when someone can’t access a laptop. You can’t read a 30-page application form on a mobile phone!

Everything is very process-driven. Applications need to be made at the right time with the supporting evidence.

This is where CASS+ comes in. We explain everything. We help clients gather all the information so that the application and case can proceed. We are here to help, but we do not advise on legal matters. It’s a step-by-step process so that people remain in control.

Satisfying work

It’s so satisfying when you see a long-standing family case resolved after several years of worry.

Advice

Here’s some more advice from Peter if you’re going through family court:

A court can’t act in isolation – the judge and magistrates need to review all the evidence. Have a clear understanding of the issues. Write everything on one side of A4: the history, how it all began, where you are today, and why. Then bullet point what you want the court to decide and why.

What does the future hold?

Peter’s excited for the future and he’s looking forward to helping more people in Exeter. In his own words:

If we get more volunteers, we can increase our days. This will ensure that people get the right support through court.

Your life. Our passion. Join us.

Find out more about how to volunteer with CASS+ here.

Interested in volunteering at Exeter Crown and County Court?

Interested in volunteering? This is fascinating, life-changing work.