Family Law Solicitors

If you’re being denied access, seek urgent advice from a child arrangement solicitor. Courts will generally consider that it is a child’s right to a relationship with both parents so long as it is safe.

Both parents are encouraged to agree on arrangements. If they cannot, the court decides based on the child’s best interests.

Both parents with parental responsibility share responsibility for decision making in what is best for their child. If an agreement cannot be reached either can apply to the Court to determine what is best for the child. Courts decide based on the child’s best interests, considering factors like safety, stability, and emotional wellbeing. A family law solicitor can help make sure your legal rights are honoured and can help explore dispute resolution options, hopefully avoiding the need to apply to court in the first place.

You’re not legally required to have a solicitor, but professional advice ensures your rights are protected and paperwork is correct. A solicitor can help negotiate agreements, represent you in court, and represent your case as best possible.

Yes. Most divorces do not require a court appearance unless there are disputes over finances or child arrangements. Our family law solicitors always explore alternative dispute resolution options (ADR) and we can help you resolve issues through negotiation.

Look for a solicitor who specialises in family law and has experience handling divorce cases, as they will understand the complexities of financial settlements, child arrangements, and property division. Clear communication is key—your solicitor should explain legal terms in plain English and keep you informed throughout. Ask about transparent pricing and consider fixed-fee options to avoid unexpected costs. Accreditation matters too; solicitors who are members of Resolution follow a constructive, non-confrontational approach.

Yes. Early legal advice and cooperation can help achieve a friendly, stress-free divorce. Mediation and collaborative law are effective options. Resolution accredited practitioners such as at Howells aim for an amicable divorce and to keep costs and stress to a minimum.

The court considers factors like children’s needs, financial contributions, and future housing requirements. Options include selling the property, transferring ownership, or deferred sale agreements.

Not always. The court aims for fairness, considering income, needs, and contributions. A 50/50 split is common but the court can depart from equality depending on the circumstances especially if required to meet needs. Each case is different so expert legal advice is imperative.

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, financial settlements, separation for unmarried couples, child custody arrangements, and prenuptial or postnuptial agreements.

In most divorces, businesses and their value are treated as part of the matrimonial asset pot, alongside savings, property, pensions, and investments. These assets are taken into account in the financial settlement, even if one spouse never worked in the business. The Courts have wide discretion in how to deal with businesses for example allowing the business owner to keep the company or shares and compensate the other spouse with a larger share of other assets or spousal maintenance. The Court can also in certain circumstances order transfer or sale of shares and ultimately the business. Each case is unique so expert legal advice is required at the outset to ensure your position is protected.

Yes. Most divorces can be processed online through the HMCTS portal. Our solicitors can handle this for you to avoid mistakes. However an online divorce will not deal with child arrangements and finances. It’s advised to have your divorce, child arrangements and finances all addressed professionally together at the same time to make the process quicker and efficient.

A DIY divorce may seem cost-effective, but it doesn’t address any children, shared property, or complex financial arrangements that need to be resolved. These situations require legal expertise to ensure fair settlements and protect your rights. Without a solicitor, you risk overlooking important issues such as pensions, child arrangements, and future financial claims. For peace of mind and long-term security, professional legal advice is essential.

Yes. If you agree on terms, you can use a solicitor to draft a consent order and submit it to court for approval, avoiding a contested hearing.

When facing family law issues, choosing the right solicitor matters. Resolution solicitors are committed to a constructive, non-confrontational approach that prioritizes fairness and reduces conflict. With expert guidance and a focus on amicable solutions, they help you navigate sensitive situations with professionalism and care.

Property division depends on individual circumstances. Courts prioritise housing needs, especially for children, and consider each party’s ability to secure accommodation. Options include selling the property, transferring ownership, or deferred sale agreements.

The starting point is often a 50/50 split, adjusted for factors like childcare responsibilities, earning capacity, and housing needs. Every case is different so expert legal advice is crucial.

The starting point is often a 50/50 split of matrimonial assets, but the court considers factors like children’s needs, income, housing requirements, and contributions. Every case is unique, so expert advice is crucial.

Pensions are treated as marital assets and can be shared through pension sharing orders, offsetting against other assets, or attachment orders. Ignoring pensions can lead to unfair settlements, so professional advice is vital.

Yes. Even if you agree on finances, you need a consent order approved by the court to make the agreement legally binding and prevent future claims. Without it, your ex could make a claim years later.

Without a court-approved settlement, your ex can make claims years later on property, inheritance, business profits, or even lottery winnings. A clean break order closes the door to future claims and protects your financial future.

Any court papers or letters you’ve received, key dates/timelines, relevant communications, and basic ID. For finances: a rough overview of income, assets, debts, housing, and childcare costs.

Yes, we offer remote appointments via telephone or by video for example on teams.

Yes, we offer flexible appointments to work at times that suit you.

Yes, although our offices are in Sheffield, Barnsley and Rotherham, we offer remote appointments nationwide on the telephone or by video for example on teams.

Yes. We provide transparent pricing, written estimates at the outset, and a choice of fixed‑fee or competitive hourly rate services—no jargon, and regular cost updates.

Yes. We can help with advice on where a child lives, time with each parent, and contact arrangements and help you apply for Child Arrangements Orders.

Mediation in family law is a process where an independent mediator helps separating couples resolve disputes about children, finances, or property without going to court. In most cases, attending a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) is required before applying to court.

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

Resolution is a national organisation of family law professionals in England and Wales that promotes a constructive approach to family issues. Members follow a Code of Practice designed to reduce conflict, encourage negotiation and mediation, and prioritise the well-being of children. Choosing a Resolution member matters because it ensures your case is handled with sensitivity, fairness, and professionalism, helping protect family relationships and achieve amicable outcomes during divorce or separation.

Yes, you can remain married while living separately. However, this can create financial and legal complications. Seek legal advice early to understand the implications.

If you have a Will, your estate will follow its terms. Without a Will, intestacy rules apply, and your spouse will inherit—even if you’ve been separated for years.

Separation does not end financial ties. Your spouse can claim against assets acquired during separation. They may also inherit if you die without a Will. Long-term separation can complicate asset division and increase risks.