Family Law

Family / Matrimonial

Matters

Our experienced Family Law Team offer a supportive and solution focused attitude to family matters.  Whether we are advising you at the beginning of your relationship through a pre-marital or cohabitation agreement or at the end of a relationship where there are financial and/or children arrangements to be made, we provide a tailored service reflecting what is important to you.

Our Approach

We place great value and importance on understanding your individual and unique circumstances.  We listen!

Our approach is friendly whist maintaining a professional, objective and common sense attitude.  We believe that these are qualities which enable us to deliver an efficient and cost-effective service without losing the personal touch.

A young couple discussing relationship problems with a solicitor

We can help and advise on:

  • Divorce and Financial Settlement
  • Children Act Proceedings
  • Co-habitation Disputes
  • Pre-Nuptial and Post Nuptial Agreements
  • Separation agreements

The Cost of Divorce:

Fixed Fees starting at £300 Plus VAT and any Court fees!

Our Family Law Specialist

Please ask for Julie Cockburn to discuss your family matters.

What is Family Law?

Family law is a branch of law that governs the legal rights and responsibilities of individuals in relation to their family and personal relationships. The legal system provides protection for individuals and families through laws that cover a vast range of issues. Broadly speaking, family law is made up of three main areas – matrimonial, finance and child law. It does, however, also encompass domestic abuse, guardianship and child protection.

Matrimonial

This term is often used to describe a number of different areas of Family Law; from entering into agreements to regulate finances at the commencement of a relationship (Pre-Nuptial or Cohabitation Agreements) to bringing a relationship to an end by way of divorce or civil partnership dissolution.

Children – Public Law

When children and their families need assistance or intervention from the Local Authority (Children’s Services) this kind of law is referred to as Public Children Law.

Children – Private Law

When parents separate or divorce, the issue of where any children will live and who they spend time with often becomes a major concern. The law presumes that it is in the best interest of the children to have regular and meaningful contact with both parents. However, the Court will consider several factors when making a decision about the arrangements for children, including the child’s welfare and any risks of harm.

Domestic Abuse

The law defines domestic abuse as any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive or threatening behaviour, violence or abuse between those aged 16 or over who are, or have been, intimate partners or family members regardless of gender or sexuality. Victims of domestic abuse can apply for a Restraining Order or an Injunction, which can prohibit the abuser from contacting or coming near them.

Financial Disputes

Financial disputes can arise when couples separate or divorce. Often this relates to property and financial assets although it can also be in relation to debts and liabilities. The Court will consider several factors when making decisions about property and financial settlements and the remedies available will depend heavily on whether the parties were married or cohabitants.

To Sum Up

In summary, family law is complex and covers a range of issues related to family relationships and domestic matters. It aims to protect the rights of individuals and ensure the welfare of children is prioritised in legal decisions.

Our Accreditations

Lexcel - UK Legal Practice Quality Mark logo
The UK Law Society Accredited - Conveyancing Quality logo
Logo for membership of Resolution: the trading name of Solicitors Family Law Association