Divorce and Relationship Breakdown

Our Partner led family team have a breadth of experience and expertise in all aspects of family law.  Our specialism and excellence is reflected in the number of Law Society Panel members that we have in both Children and Family law.

We believe that each client is unique and we offer advice that is suitable for individual requirements

Diana Rose
Partner
Email Diana
01536 523434
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Our team of specialist family solicitors offer legal advice and practical guidance during what is often a difficult and stressful time.

When a relationship breaks down there are many practical aspects to consider as well as the emotional impact.  Decisions will need to be made concerning financial matters and arrangements for the children.  Legal advice at an early stage is crucial to ensure that all decisions are made on an informed basis.  This avoids misunderstandings arising in the future.  Our family specialists will ensure that you receive the advice and assistance most appropriate to your circumstances and tailored to your needs.

We advise on the following:

  • Divorce
  • Relationship breakdown
  • Financial arrangements
  • Clean-break orders
  • Separation agreements
  • Civil partnerships
  • Co-habitation agreements
  • Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements
  • Arrangements for children

 

Divorce

The new ‘no fault’ divorce procedure came into effect on 6 April 2022. However, even though it is no longer necessary to attribute blame, there are still procedural options to consider. Therefore, it is important to seek legal advice before issuing proceedings. We shall be happy to explain the options and guide you through the process to ensure matters remain amicable.

Finances

Once divorce proceedings are issued, it is crucial to seek legal advice to ensure the financial matters are addressed. We shall be happy to advise on the options. All aspects will need to be considered before a final settlement can be agreed including property, lump sum payments, pension provision and spousal maintenance. Seeking advice at an early stage will ensure that decisions are made on an informed basis. We shall be able to guide you through the process to ensure that nothing is overlooked.    

Even if you are in no hurry to commence divorce proceedings you may still wish to address the financial issues so that new arrangements can be made, for example where you will live in the future.  Advice at an early stage will ensure that all aspects are considered, and arrangements dealt with in a constructive way, including financial provision for the children.

Once a financial settlement has been reached, it is advisable to set out the terms of agreement in a consent order to obtain a clean break. Once the order has been approved by the court, neither party will be able to make any further claim against the other. We will be happy to assist you with the preparation of the documents required by the court and deal with the process on your behalf. 

Where matters are either more complex, or an agreement cannot be reached, we will advise you as to the various options available to progress matters, for example mediation or an application to the court.  We will assist and guide you through the process so that the issues can be resolved as straightforwardly and as cost effectively as possible.

Fees

In family matters the fees involved will depend upon the nature of the matter and the level of agreement between the parties.  Save in very limited circumstances Legal Aid is no longer available for financial and children matters.  Please contact one of our solicitors who will be happy to discuss matters with you in detail to determine the extent of the advice and assistance required. Our charging rates will be explained including the options for payment.


Throughout the firm we have experienced lawyers who will assist clients in other areas arising from their family matters. These include selling and buying property and making a will.   

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