Divorce and custody

The breakdown of a relationship can provide for a deeply traumatising time for the parties involved. Ending a relationship is a life-changing decision, and can make the decision all that much harder when there are children involved. Many of us today in society have had friends or family that have been through or are facing separation from their partners. Whether you are married or living with a partner, it is essential that you gain the expert advice you need in order to help you through this difficult time.

Divorce

In order for you to be able to get divorced it will have to be proven that the marriage has irretrievably broken down. The partner responsible for starting the proceedings (Petitioner) must prove that the marriage has irretrievably broken down by establishing one of the following conditions:

  • The other party has committed adultery and you (as the Petitioner) find it intolerable to live with them
  • The other party has behaved in such a way that you cannot reasonably be expected to live together
  • Both parties have been separated for a period of two years before the legal divorce proceedings were started and the Respondent agrees to get divorced
  • Both parties have been separated for a period of five years
  • The Respondent left the Petitioner for a period of at least two years before the divorce proceedings commenced

The divorce procedure itself is a relatively straightforward procedure, and if the divorce is undefended it can normally take four to six months to complete. However, it can become slightly more complicated when there are children and financial matters to consider.

Children

In times of separation the first concern for most partners are their children. It is inevitable that the children involved would suffer some form of psychological trauma, however if the situation is handled sensitively and appropriately, the effects on the children involved can be minimised.

Our family law solicitors will guide you through this sensitive process in order to minimise the level of suffering caused to your children as much as possible. Our solicitors are experienced in making arrangements that allows both parents to stay connected to their children through these troubling times. Our aim is simple; keeping the needs of the children at the forefront whilst working through the separation.

Protecting your wealth

It is natural that emotions will be running high through the separation process and it is easy to forget to safeguard your assets. However it is essential that you develop strategies in order to protect your assets. Protecting your wealth is not about hiding your assets. It is simply about understanding what options are available to you and how you can secure your resources.

Civil Partnerships

In line with our changing society, same sex couples have acquired the same rights and legal protection that had previously only been given to married heterosexual couples. If your civil partnership has broken down, our specialist solicitors can help you apply for a dissolution of a civil partnership.

Whichever service you require, our family law solicitors are committed to guiding you through this difficult process and help you move forward. Our specialist solicitors will carefully examine your case and advise you on your best options.

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