Family

A family breakdown is emotionally traumatic for everyone involved.  Dealing with the legal aspects of family problems requires not only a thorough knowledge of the law, but a practical, tactful and understanding approach.    Our dedicated team of specialist lawyers are sympathetic and discreet, and proactive in dealing with all aspects of marital and relationship breakdowns, quickly and cost-effectively. The team includes lawyers who are members of Resolution, a national association of family lawyers which promotes dealing with family problems in a non-confrontational way.  Members encourage solutions that consider the needs of the whole family - and in particular the best interests of children.  We also have a collaboratively-trained lawyer.  Collaboration is a process which is available to assist couples to resolve disputes between them following the breakdown of their relationship without the involvement of the Court.

Our services include advice on:

Agreements before marriage and civil partnership

These agreements (known as "Pre-Nups") are entered into by a couple, before marriage or civil registration, with a view to determining what should happen to their income and assets should their relationship break down. Such agreements are increasingly used by couples who wish to minimise the uncertainty of how their finances might be dealt with by the court in the event of divorce or dissolution.  They can be (and are increasingly more likely to be) taken into account by the Courts upon divorce or dissolution.

Cohabitation

Contrary to popular belief, couples who live together but who do not marry, do not acquire the rights of married individuals even though the relationship lasts for many years.  Increasingly, individuals are choosing not to marry.  We give advice on the preparation of Cohabitation Agreements, which can cover home ownership, financial affairs, child issues, and which should provide reassurance to the couple that their individual circumstances will be better resolved should a breakdown occur.

Divorce/Dissolution of Civil Partnerships

We understand very well just how distressing either can be. It is desirable to seek legal advice at an early stage, so that the legal process can be better managed in a cost-effective and dignified manner.  We will give you expert advice at the outset as to the likely outcomes and how best to progress your case.  We advise on all issues relating to both processes and will do all that we can to achieve an agreement between the parties through discussion and negotiation, or if necessary through the courts.

Financial issues

We advise on all financial aspects of divorce, dissolution and separation, including the division of family assets, trusts, company and partnership interests, periodic and lump sum payments, property and pension issues.

Future arrangements for children

Such as Residence (commonly called custody), Contact (access) and Parental Responsibility.

Separation Agreements

These are for separating couples where divorce is not desired or appropriate and can deal with all issues relating to separation including finances and child issues.