Services - Divorce & Family

We encourage mediation and trying to resolve disputes by agreement.  Not only will an agreement usually work but it will limit the emotional damage that often results from arguing. If agreement is not possible then we will represent you through the Court and fight your corner.

We can help prevent dispute with co-habitation agreements and pre-nuptial agreements.   We can advise you about Parental Responsibility Agreements if you are parents, but not married to the other parent.  We will also discuss other issues with you such as making a Will - you my not want your spouse to benefit once your relationship has broken down!

Every family is special and you need to meet us so we can talk it all through with you. It will probably be one of the most difficult periods of your life.  We will make sure as far as we can that you know about the procedure, what is happening when and why and the legal costs involved, both if the matter is resolved quickly and if it is not.  

Most people know when their marriage or civil partnership has broken down and very few people defend divorce proceedings.  Most people agree who the children should live with and when they see the other parent. It can be harder to decide how to deal with the family assets.  Even in these days of equality men are still on the whole, the main earners and women the main carers.  A contribution as a carer is as valuable as one as an earner in the eyes of the Court.  The Court can transfer assets from one party to another, including pensions to reach a fair division of assets.

It is more complicated if you have not married.  There is no recognition in law of a ‘common law spouse’ so all the Court can do is return to each person the assets they have put into the relationship.  These actions are costly in money, time and emotionally.  Children of unmarried parents are protected as they have a right to support from both their parents, in capital and income but anger over financial disputes can upset the children and strain the relationship they have with their parents.

Call Lynette Abbott  on 01628 798800 for a free 30 minute initial meeting to discuss your concerns.