Divorce, children & family

We understand the problems arising from a relationship breakdown and that it can be a difficult time for the parties involved.

We will provide the friendly and efficient service and give you the clear, sound and comprehensive advice you need.  

Divorce and separation 

We will explain clearly all the alternatives available so you can decide what to do, considering the welfare of any children you may have.  

Where recourse through the court is necessary or unavoidable, we will always explain the procedure to you so it is as stress free as possible for you and your family. 

Finances and property  

Division of the parties' finances and property are dealt with as a separate procedure from divorce and the result is dependant on the facts of each client's case. We will aim to ensure a fair and reasonable settlement is reached, if possible, without the need for a full court hearing.  

Usually, financial disclosure is necessary and we can deal with the paperwork for you. We will negotiate on your behalf or suggest mediation (where suitable for you) and will draft the legal documents when you reach an agreement.  

If you cannot agree and a court has to decide about your finances and property, then we will advise and help you about the procedure as well as ensuring you are represented by an experienced barrister.  

Children matters  

Separation or divorce can cause much confusion and disruption to any children you may have. We encourage high levels of cooperation between all parties to resolve issues, such as where the child will live, when the other partner can have contact with them and financial support. We understand how important routine and familiarity is to children and so we aim to help the parties achieve minimal disruption to their children's lives.  

We have expertise in representing both married and unmarried parents and grandparents and can provide concise advice on a wide range of matters such as child maintenance and prohibited steps orders.  

Cohabitation 

While couples are increasingly setting up home together, most do not realise that if their relationship breaks down their rights are not the same as that of a married couple and the idea of a common law husband and wife does not exist.   

Therefore, we recommend couples sign a cohabitation agreement, which sets out what each party gets if they separate. We can help you with what can be a complicated document. 

Should your relationship break down and you do not have a cohabitation agreement, we can help you negotiate how your property, savings and other assets are divided between you.  We will work as quickly as possible to ensure the situation is resolved amicably. 

Prenuptial agreements 

Recent case law has suggested that these agreements (which are common in the USA) are now enforceable in English law. 

If you wish to protect your assets from your spouse if you divorce then you should consider asking them to sign an agreement before you marry, which sets out what each party will get if you divorce. We can help you with what can be a complicated document.