Family Law
Family law matters are typically stressful for all involved – not just a separated couple but their children and extended family. If you are separating, you might be leaving a husband, wife or civil partner who may also be the co-parent of your children. You will likely need to consider:
- where you and your children are going to live
- how often the children will see the parent they don’t live with
- how to divide property that you share
- whether you’ll be able to afford to pay the bills once you’re living separately
- whether you want to end your marriage and file for divorce
If you are living in the UK as a dependant on your partner’s visa, you’ll also need to check if you can remain in the UK.
Whatever your circumstances, getting good support and sound legal advice is essential. Our experienced family law team can provide the advice and guidance you need to help you make the right decisions about your finances, your children, and your future.
How do we sort out the finances?
One of the first things most people think about after separating is finances – for the immediate and long-term. Getting the right financial settlement in a divorce or separation is essential to ensure you and your children are protected now and in the future. An experienced family law solicitor can advise you regarding your right to stay in the family home, access to pensions and other investments, and child maintenance and lump sums or ongoing financial support.
What about the children?
It is common following divorce or separation for children to split their time between parents and it is important to find a workable solution that is in their best interests. You want to give your children the best life possible and safeguard your role in raising them. Should parents not be able to reach an agreement about the children after divorce or in mediation the matter may need to be decided by the court. This can be lengthy and expensive. The paramount consideration for any court will be the welfare of the children.
Reaching an agreement
Since 2010 it has been mandatory for separating couples to attend a mediation session. This is not counselling or an attempt to reconcile the separated couple, but simply to determine if mediation can provide a workable solution without going to court.
Mediation can be used for separating couples to agree on how best to divide their property after separation. In most cases, mediation will be faster and cheaper than going to court and is certainly a good first option.
Likewise, parenting matters may be resolved through mediation without stressful court proceedings. Mediation can help both parents understand their respective viewpoints and resolve their issues.
How can we help?
A relationship breakdown means reorganising many aspects of your life and it can be stressful trying to deal with the legal requirements on top of your other responsibilities and worries. A trusted family law solicitor can be invaluable during this difficult time. Our experienced and empathetic solicitors are here for you – we will listen, provide options, and help strategise solutions that will work best for your circumstances so you can move forward with your life.
We can assist with:
Marriage, de facto and divorce law
- Prenuptial agreements (prenups)
- Divorce including preparing and serving divorce papers
- Spousal maintenance
- Property settlements
- Domestic and family violence
- Family mediation
- Legal representation in court
Children’s issues
- Child support and enforcement of payments
- Parenting plans and visitation matters
- Parental rights, father’s rights and grandparent’s rights
- Guardianship of children
- Adoption
- Court matters
If you need help, contact [email protected] or call 020 3565 0074.