Family Law Solicitors | Divorce, Custody & Separation Experts | Howells
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Family Law Solicitors

Expert Family Law Solicitors Serving Sheffield, Rotherham, Barnsley & Nationwide

Looking for trusted and affordable family law advice? Our experienced family law solicitors offer expert support across all areas of family law advice, including divorce, financial settlements, child custody, separation agreements, and legal advice for unmarried couples.

With offices in Sheffield, Rotherham, and Barnsley, and clients across London and the UK, we provide compassionate, clear legal guidance tailored to your needs.

 

We’re accredited by Resolution, The Law Society, Legal 500, and Chambers and Partners, and rated 4.9/5 on Review Solicitors—a reflection of our proven expertise and client satisfaction.

 

Free Family Law Advice for New Clients – Get a free 30-minute consultation with a specialist family law solicitor—by phone, video call, or in person at our Sheffield, Rotherham, or Barnsley offices.

Affordable Fixed Fee Services – We offer transparent, cost-effective legal support, including fixed-fee divorce from just £275 + VAT—making us one of the UK’s most affordable family law firms.

 

family law solicitor in free consultation

What Our Family Law Solicitors Can Help With

Our experienced and affordable family law solicitors guide you through the emotional challenges of a relationship breakdown, providing clear family law advice on your home, finances, and children. Compassionate and approachable, we work hard to protect your best interests while making the process as stress-free as possible.

As one of the largest and affordable family law teams in Yorkshire, we offer expert advice on:

  • Divorce and separation

  • Financial settlements

  • Child custody and child maintenance

  • Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements

  • Cohabitation disputes

  • Children law court proceedings

  • International child abduction

We also represent clients in court for children’s cases and work with trusted barristers, financial advisers, and agencies supporting children and survivors of abuse.

You can access our wealth of helpful guides to support you with your family law queries.

 

Contact us or call us on 0114 2235 807 to speak to a family law expert or book an appointment today.

Our family law services:

What is Family Law?

Family law is a legal area that deals with issues arising from family relationships. Often linked with matrimonial law, it covers matters such as divorce, divorce financial settlements, separation for unmarried couples, child custody arrangements, and prenuptial or postnuptial agreements. Family law solicitors provide legal advice and representation to help resolve these matters fairly and in the best interests of those involved.

 

 

Affordable Family Law Solicitors – Fixed Fees and Expert Advice

Our affordable family law solicitors make the process straightforward and cost-effective. Whether you’re considering a separation or applying for a divorce, we offer expert family law advice through fixed-fee divorce packages and competitive hourly rates.

 

Our promise to you:

  • No Surprises – At the start of your case, we will provide a clear, written estimate of costs and keep you regularly updated, so you always know your position.
  • Clear Communication – We avoid legal jargon. We take the time to understand your situation and explain everything in plain language, so you feel confident at every stage.
  • Minimising Stress – We know the breakdown of a relationship is one of life’s most challenging experiences. Our goal is to achieve the best possible outcome for you and your family with minimal distress. Wherever possible, we seek amicable solutions, but we will always prioritise your best interests and fight for the result you deserve.
  • Fair & Transparent Pricing – We work hard to keep costs down. Our fixed fees and transparent pricing mean you know exactly what your legal work will cost, and our hourly rates are among the most competitive in England and Wales.

Our solicitors are accredited by Resolution, The Law Society, Legal 500, and Chambers and Partners, reflecting our proven expertise. With a 4.9 out of 5 rating on Review Solicitors, we are proud of our outstanding client feedback and results.

We can then support you with all areas and stages of Family Law, such as:

 

Divorce & Separation

  • Divorce Proceedings – The divorce process can be emotionally challenging, especially when it involves complex financial matters, shared assets, or arrangements for children. Our experienced divorce solicitors specialise in handling all types of divorce and legal separation cases, from straightforward separations to high-value and child-focused disputes. We provide clear legal advice, strong representation, and compassionate support to help you achieve the best possible outcome.
  • Divorce Financial Settlements – Divorce financial settlement is the process of dividing assets and liabilities between spouses when they separate. It is a legally binding decision, and it is highly advisable to obtain one.
  • Separation Agreements – The agreement helps both parties decide how to handle their assets now and in case of a future divorce. This agreement does not mean you have to divorce. Many couples find that a time apart helps them get back together on better terms.

Learn more in our family law advice guides.

 

Child Custody & Maintenance

  • Child Custody and Child Arrangement Orders – If you are separating or getting divorced, you need to decide on custody arrangements for your children.
  • Child Maintenance – If you are getting a divorce or separating, you need to think about your children’s financial needs. You must also decide how to meet those needs. This can be dealt with by creating a child maintenance agreement.

Learn more in our family law advice guides.

 

Unmarried Couples & Prenuptial Agreements

  • Unmarried Couples – If you are unmarried and separating from your partner, our expert cohabitation solicitors can offer legal advice for unmarried couples. We can advise on your legal rights involving finances, children, property, and shared possessions. We can help protect your rights, resolve disputes, and create clear agreements to avoid future conflicts.
  • Prenuptial Agreement – A prenuptial agreement is a legal contract made between a couple before marriage, setting out how assets, property, and finances will be divided if the marriage ends. By creating a prenup before getting married, you can protect your wealth, business interests, or inheritance, and ensure financial clarity for both partners in the event of a divorce or separation. 

Learn more in our family law advice guides.

 

Fixed Fee Divorce & Pricing

Fixed Fee Divorce from £275 + VAT – A fixed fee divorce is just like any other divorce process; however, you know the cost upfront. Our fixed fee divorce lawyers are transparent with you on the costs front the beginning of your journey with us.

 

Family Law Fees

Our family team offer cost-effective family law advice and are transparent with all pricing. You will always be kept up to date with costs and they offer fixed fees for most areas, so you are always in full control. We offer a fixed fee divorce service, starting from £275 + VAT.

Find a full list of our family law fees.

 

 

Alternative Dispute Resolution Methods

Collaborative Law Solicitors – Collaborative law allows both parties and their lawyers to meet. They work together to find terms for a separation that everyone agrees on. Learn more on collaborative law solicitors.

 

Additional Family Law Services

Our team can help you deal with other family law matters, including:

  • Change of Name.
  • Domestic Abuse.
  • Child Abduction.
  • Post Nuptial Agreement.

Contact us or call us on 0114 2235 807 to speak to a family law expert or book an appointment today.

 

 

Free Family Law Advice

Our family law team offer a free legal consultation to new clients. You can book an appointment by telephone, video call or in person, at a time that suits your needs.

What is included:

 

  • A 30-minute in depth consultation with a qualified family law Solicitor.
  • A good understanding of your legal position and issues surrounding your situation.
  • A clear road map of your situation and the solutions available to you.
  • An estimate of your costs.

The family law process is:

  • Book your free family law consultation with one of our specialist family law solicitors.
  • You will get a case review. This will help you understand your legal position and options. It will also include information about costs.
  • Instruct your family law solicitor and receive expert tailored advice and representation to get the best possible outcome for you and your family.

Contact us or call us on 0114 2235 807 to speak to a family law expert or book an appointment today.

 

 

Flexible Family Law Appointments

We understand that dealing with family law matters can be stressful, and finding time to attend in-person appointments isn’t always easy. That’s why we offer our full range of family law services remotely, offering a more efficient and convenient service.

 

We are able to offer advice nationwide on that basis, which can often work out to be cheaper and more convenient, frequently providing representation to family law clients around the whole country.

 

We can offer our family law legal support via telephone or secure online meetings. This approach allows you to access expert legal advice from the comfort of your home, without the need to travel or rearrange your schedule.

 

If your case requires a court hearing, many such procedural matters are now handled remotely too, or if in person we can arrange representation by a suitable local barrister, ensuring your legal journey is as smooth and accessible as possible.

 

Our remote services are designed to be just as personal and confidential as in-person consultations, with clear communication and full transparency every step of the way.

 

Remote appointments are offered throughout the case, and most correspondence is handled by email. Whether you’re dealing with sensitive family matters or simply seeking guidance, we ensure a smooth, stress-free experience that puts your needs first.

 

If you do wish to meet us face to face, you can book an appointment at one of our offices in Sheffield, Barnsley or Rotherham. While remote services offer convenience, they may not be suitable for those with limited digital literacy or access or where safeguarding is critical.

 

Contact us or call us on 0114 2235 807 to speak to a family law expert or book an appointment today.

 

Who Our Family Law Team Can Help

Our expert family law solicitors support clients in a wide range of situations, including:

  • Married couples seeking a divorce
  • Unmarried couples looking to separate
  • Engaged partners creating a prenuptial agreement
  • Unmarried couples creating a cohabitation agreement
  • Separating parents arranging child custody or child maintenance
  • Couples dividing property, savings, or other assets
  • Professionals and public sector workers with complex financial arrangements
  • Clients needing advice on pensions during divorce or separation
  • Business owners going through separation or divorce
  • Individuals wishing to legally change their name
  • Child abduction and international custody cases
  • Matters involving the welfare of children or intervention from social services

We provide tailored legal advice to protect your rights, resolve disputes, and achieve the best possible outcome for you and your family.

 

Our family law solicitors offer free family law advice with a free legal consultation for new clients. This 30-minute consultation can be made by telephone or video call, or face-to-face at one of our offices.

 

Contact us or call us on 0114 2235 807 to speak to a family law expert or book an appointment today.

 

 

Areas Our Family Law Solicitors Cover

Our Family Law team can represent clients in:

– South Yorkshire, including, Sheffield, Barnsley, RotherhamDoncaster and the Peak District

– Elsewhere in Yorkshire, including LeedsWhitbyCastlefordYork and Skipton

– Derbyshire, including ChesterfieldCastleton and Derby

– London and surrounding areas

– NottinghamMansfieldWorksop and surrounding areas in Nottinghamshire

– Other areas in the north of England, including Manchester, Liverpool, Newcastle, Bradford, Bolton and Middlesbrough

– The midlands, including Birmingham, WolverhamptonGrantham, Stoke on Trent, LincolnPeterboroughStafford, and Leicester

– The south, including CornwallDorsetOxford, Gloucestershire BuckinghamshireKentBournemouthExeter,

Milton KeysCheltenhamBathPlymouth and Ipswich

and Chichester

– Cheshire

– Nationwide (throughout England)

 

Contact us or call us on 0114 2235 807 to speak to a family law expert or book an appointment today.

 

Family Law Frequently Asked Questions

 

Do I need a solicitor for a divorce or separation?

You are not legally required to use a solicitor to get a divorce or separate, but it’s highly recommended—especially if there are children, property, or finances involved. A family law solicitor ensures your rights are protected, helps with paperwork, and can negotiate fair divorce financial settlements.

 

How much does a family law solicitor cost?

Costs vary depending on the complexity of the case and the solicitor’s experience. We offer fixed-fee packages and transparent hourly rates. We also offer a free consultation where we will give a clear breakdown of fees. Find more on our family law fees.

 

What should I bring to my first appointment with a family solicitor?

Bring ID (passport or driving licence), your marriage or civil partnership certificate, details of any children (names, ages, schools), recent financial documents, and any relevant legal paperwork. Being prepared helps your solicitor give accurate advice from the start.

 

Can a solicitor represent both sides in a divorce?

Yes, in some limited cases. A couple can only have a joint solicitor to help with a divorce where they both agree to the divorce and where the solicitor is satisfied that there is no conflict of interests and that it is appropriate to work for both parties in this way.

There often can be situations where this would not be appropriate and our solicitors can advise you in detail on the issue.  However, in most cases each party should seek independent legal advice to ensure their interests are protected.

 

What happens if my spouse won’t agree to a divorce?

Since April 2022, the no-fault divorce law means you no longer need your spouse’s consent or to assign blame. You can apply independently, and they cannot contest the divorce except in limited circumstances.

 

Can we get a divorce without going to court?

Yes. Most divorces do not require court appearances unless there are disputes over children or finances. Our family law solicitors can help you resolve matters without litigation where possible.

 

What rights do I have as a father?

Fathers have the same legal rights as mothers if they have parental responsibility. You can apply for contact or custody arrangements. Courts make decisions based on the best interests of the child, not the gender of the parent.

 

What if my ex wants to move away with our children?

If the move involves relocating abroad and you have parental responsibility for the children concerned, this requires your consent or a court order. Whilst it is not technically generally illegal for a parent to seek to move elsewhere within this country with their children, there are urgent steps that the court can put in place to seek to prevent the children concerned being unilaterally relocated in such a way. In those circumstances, urgent legal assistance is of utmost importance.

 

Can a prenuptial agreement protect my assets?

Yes. A prenuptial agreement can help protect your assets. While not automatically binding, UK courts usually uphold them if they are fair, signed voluntarily, and both parties received independent legal advice.

Free Family Law Consultation

The family law team  offer a free 30-minute consultation on your first visit to provide all the initial information you may need to prepare for the process.

Call us on 0114 2235 807 or contact online

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The Howells Solicitors law team are compassionate, down-to-earth and professional, offering you the best expert advice. Get in touch with solicitors in Sheffield, Rotherham, and Barnsley to see how we can help. Fill in the form or give us a call at:

Family Law Articles

What Do Our
Clients Say

"Danielle was fast, efficient and kind throughout what was always going to be a hard process. She made me feel safe and comfortable in her hands and always ensured I understood every part of the process. She also was very approachable and didn't speak down to me when I didn't understand something. Great solicitor."

Family Law Client
2025

"I worked with Sharon to put my finance order in place for my divorce. Howells provided a great service and worked quickly and efficiently to get the job completed to try to keep my costs down too. I would definitely recommend Sharon and the team"

Family Law Client
2024

"I cannot thank John enough for his support and professionalism throughout my divorce and financial settlement. From the very beginning, he gave me clear, realistic advice and was always patient in explaining the process, which helped me feel more confident in what was a very stressful time.

He fought for a fair outcome, and thanks to his guidance, I was able to reach a settlement that gives me financial security for the future. His knowledge of the law, attention to detail, and ability to cut through the complexities of the case were outstanding.

Most importantly, I felt that he genuinely cared about getting me through this in the best possible way. I would highly recommend John and his firm to anyone needing advice and representation in family law"

Divorce Client
2025

"My solicitor has been absolutely brilliant throughout my case. They are so supportive, understanding, and always takes the time to explain everything clearly. I’ve felt really looked after, and I can’t thank them enough for her kindness and professionalism. I’d highly recommend them to anyone who needs someone genuinely on their side"

Family Law Client
2025

Divorce is never nice. When you are in the thick of it and cannot see the wood for the trees, you need people around you who are experienced, professional and also sympathetic to your needs. People who can guide you along the way. Howells were every bit of this. Nobody can prepare you for the stresses and anxiety most people going through a divorce will endure. Having a friendly, straight talking shoulder to cry on, with a clear path to an exit is key. Professional to the end, but equally a joy to talk things though with.

Divorce Client
2021

"I appreciate and realise all the work you are doing to help me and my children and no words can truly explain my gratitude to you and your team, thank you so much for all your hard work. We appreciate it very much."

Family Law Client
2020

“I cannot speak highly enough of you & everyone I have come into contact with at Howells. Please could you especially pass on my thanks to Nicky who walked me to Court & arranged the special measures for the Financial Hearing & Heather in reception who called a taxi & allowed me to sit in reception with her afterwards.”

Family Law Client
2019

"The lady on your Reception Heather, is such a credit to your company. She’s always so lovely and welcoming."

Family Client
2019

"Very helpful got half hour free advice most friendly and very easy to talk to from receptionist to the solicitors yes would most definitely recommend any one to give them a call if needed advice."

Family Law Client
2020

"I have seen Mr John Clegg who helped me greatly. Lindsey Rawson who did my Will and then Louise Tissington who helped me revise my Will. Mr Hague who helped with my criminal charge and everybody at conveyancing department. All fantastic! The reception staff are great, polite, kind and really professional. Great Service!”

Family Law Client
2020